Concrete Resurfacing Information

Concrete Over Concrete

• This may be the simplest way to resurface concrete, and it will work in one coat up to 3/4-inch thick. You'll need to make a frame around the area you wish to resurface, then clean loose concrete out of any cracks. Mix up a cement paint by adding Portland cement to water until the consistency is that of old paint; roller this on the area to be resurfaced, including inside the cracks, then pour a cement/sand mixture over the top. Cover it with plastic and let it dry.

Polymer Over Concrete

• A polymer resurfacing will be the most labor intensive, but polymers remain flexible at all temperatures and may last the longest of any resurfacing coating.

  You'll need to clean and wash the surface of the area to resurface. Then you will need to physically repair all the cracks in the drive using a filler and a fabric covering. Apply a base coat over the fabric-patched cracks, then apply the first polymer coat. If there are deep holes, they will need to be plugged; sand can then be broadcast over the top to give the concrete some grip, or you can supply texture with a hopper gun, then trowel smooth. Apply the final polymer coat and allow to dry.

Epoxy Over Concrete

• Epoxy is the best of both worlds: It will dry as hard as concrete, yet will remain almost as flexible as a polymer.

  As always, clean the surface and remove any debris from cracks. Use Portland cement to repair any cracks or holes, then mix up the two-part epoxy resurfacing compound while adding four parts sand to the mix. Roller this mixture over the old concrete, and for extra grip, you can broadcast fine sand over the surface. Allow to dry and then sweep clean.