There are times when we encounter concrete slabs with large cracks or slabs that have significant high and low spots or many pit holes and gouges in the surface of the concrete floor. When too many imperfections are present, this problem is solved and fixed with the use and application of self leveling concrete overlays at varying thicknesses.
Self-leveling underlayments and overlayments are widely used for a variety of purposes to resurface wood sub-floors, over metal. Even ceramic floors can be resurfaced with self leveling cement overlays. There are also many types of floor coverings that require a perfectly flat concrete floor. A concrete slab that has many high and low spots must be fixed before any flooring can be laid on top such as wood and stone tile. In many cases a self leveling overlay is the easiest and best solution to flatten and level a concrete floor slab.
What is a concrete overlay, and how does it work?
A concrete overlay is a hybrid polymer resin based cement, which is water compatible and non-toxic. These systems have been successfully developed, time-tested and used for many permanent applications by contractors, engineers, architects and public works agencies for internal and external applications like concrete step restorations or garage floor repair and restoration, above and below grade.
These systems resist chemical attack and weather degradation considerably better than conventional cement or modified cements; and due to its chemical structure, repairs or imperfections in concrete are easily corrected.
It adheres tenaciously to most surfaces and is considerably more flexible, thereby resulting in less or no cracking, with a warranted resistance from de-lamination due to hydrostatic pressure. These permanent overlays offer longer life, durability, reliability, flexibility, water and chemical resistance, and optional safety (non-slip) textures that are not only cost effective and time saving, but can also be aesthetically appealing.
What is a thin stamped concrete overlay?
A thin stamped overlay is a engineered modified polymer coating installed over existing concrete. The coating is installed at only 1/4" to 3/8" thick to eliminate the cost, hassle, and downtime of tearing out and replacing the existing concrete like conventional full depth stamped concrete finishes.
After the coating is applied, a decorative "stamp" is impressioned into the material to give the natural look and feel of stone, slate, brick, and tile, just like conventional full depth stamped concrete applications.
What are the advantages of a hybrid polymer overlay?
- Increased strength compared to normal concrete and other concrete coating products.
- Highly resistant to salt, chemicals, UV, freeze/thaw, de-lamination, hydrostatic pressure, oil, stains, mildew/fungus, and more depending on seal coat.
- Cost effective. Since it provides a permanent, nearly maintenance free surface that can resemble brick, stone, slate, etc. at a fraction of the cost.
- Ability to apply from the thinness of a grain of sand up to several inches thick with extreme durability.
- Wide variety of applications. (broom finish, splatter texture, trowel finish, stamped overlay, chemical stain), with almost unlimited and completely customizable design options.
How do your concrete products stand up against oils, stains, salts, and discoloration?
All overlays are sealed upon completion. These sealers all protect the overlay, giving it a nonporous finish. The majority of stains due to oil and grease wash off with a mild detergent or plain water. Salt, de-icers, fertilizers and such have no effect on it whatsoever.
Before & After Pictures
