In most cases, concrete surfaces do not need to be completely replaced, but after restoration, they can look like new. Concrete surfaces with minor damage are ideal candidates for surface restoration, but this is not always immediately apparent. There is no way to repair the surface of the concrete it raises is severely cracked or damaged due to freeze/thaw damage.
When to resurface
The best time to consider resurfacing concrete is when you start to notice minor damage and superficial cracking. This is the best time because you’re effectively arresting the damage before it can continue and sealing it over entirely to prevent further damage from occurring; effectively extending the life of your concrete.
Alternatively, if you apply a decorative crack resurfacing mortar without smoothing, filling, or putting in expansion joints, eventually the cracks will recur or reappear, and this will destroy your new surface, which may require it to be completely sanded and refinished – and this can be expensive, literally twice the original cost. If the concrete below is in poor condition, pouring a new layer on top of the old one will only delay the inevitable. Instead, contractors can go and repair extensive damage by pouring a new layer of concrete on top of the existing road after removing the top layer. Whatever your needs, your nearest driveway concrete contractor can help you get the smooth, durable surface you’re looking for.
Contractor vs DIY
When considering resurfacing your concrete to repair minor damage, it’s important to consider whether or not you’d like to attempt the job yourself, or hire a contractor to do it for you. Hiring a contractor in some cases may be the safer bet. They will be able to tell whether your concrete is a prime candidate for resurfacing, or whether you may need new concrete poured altogether. This could potentially save you a headache further down the line.
Instead of paying a contractor to completely redo your driveway by removing concrete or constantly patching up the surface, you can opt for sanding. Whether it’s a driveway, pool deck, patio, or any paved surface, the cost of concrete sanding can buy you a refurbished look. Approximately 90% of the time, if you have a viable base, it’s cheaper to resurface the concrete than to rip it off and start over. If you go the traditional route, repairing damaged concrete can be expensive and messy.
And if all else fails and there is too much damage, you can replace your concrete slab instead of redoing it. Problems with the old concrete can damage the new recast layer. Concrete is not a good candidate for surface repair if the underlying concrete is damaged, cracked, deteriorated, etc. Make sure to repair any damage to the old concrete before pouring the sanding compound.
Get In Touch
Small concrete jobs can be done by yourself in most cases, but if you’d like help from a contractor, Almand Bros should be your one-stop destination. We have been delivering high-quality construction projects in New Jersey since 1985.
Our services include concrete and masonry installation and repair, custom stonework, basement waterproofing, grading and watershed, and snow removal services. You can call us at (856) 310-1390 to get a free estimate. You can also fill our online contact form to get in touch.