In the past, repairing your driveway has been an arduous task that involves tearing up the surface with jackhammers and towing away the refuse. With new concrete resurfacing options this doesn’t have to be the case.

Can You Resurface a Concrete Driveway? 

If your driveway has minor cracks and salt damage, concrete resurfacing is a practical, simple, and cost-effective option that will breathe new life into your existing surface. Resurfacing your concrete driveway can save you money and time because the work can be completed quietly (no jackhammer or disposal required), and efficiently, often taking only an afternoon. The resurfacing material is a composite of Portland Cement and polymer materials that are flexible, and adhere closely. Concrete resurfacing can include a stain, chemical, and chip-resistant finish, keeping it beautiful and standing the test of time.

How Do You Patch and Resurface Concrete?

Before you start, you’ll need to patch cracks and pits on the surface of the driveway and assess areas that have large cracks, heaving or crumbling concrete. Areas with significant damage should be replaced entirely. The resurfacing material dries very quickly, so you will need to work quickly, thoroughly, and in small areas.

Step #1:

  • Check the weather to ensure conditions are ideal for resurfacing – no rain in the forecast, and low or no humidity.
  • Thoroughly clean the concrete surface with a pressure washer. Make sure that all the dirt and stains are 100% clean. Remove residues from chemicals, oil, or paint.
  • Eliminate any mold or mildew that may be growing.

Step #2:

  • Tape off all expansion joints with duct tape or a weather stripping tape – joints are needed for expansion and contraction so it’s important you don’t cover these with concrete material.
  • Remove the tape promptly once resurfacing is complete.

Step #3 

  • The resurfacing material dries quickly, so it’s best to make small batches and be prepared to work fast. This is best completed by at least two people – ask for help before you begin.
  • Mix a small batch of the concrete resurfacing material according to product directions.
  • On a clean and prepared section of your driveway, pour out the resurfacer.
  • Spread out the materials using a trowel or firm squeegee.
  • To ensure that footwear can properly grip your driveway surface safely, brush the resurfacer with a nylon bristle broom at a 90-degree angle to the direction people will walk.

Step #4:

  • Check the package directions for curing time. Once it starts to cure, you won’t need to cover it in case of rain.
  • Wait for the total curing time to pass before walking or driving on the new surface.

How Do You Make Old Concrete Look Like New?

There are endless options for concrete resurfacing including adding patterns, colours and types of finishes. To ensure a safe walking surface, you’ll need to add a type of texture such as stippling, stone texture or decorative brushing.  Concrete stamping can also make your refinished surface look like patio pavers, natural stone or even slate. Adding an architectural feel to your driveway, walkways or patio can be simple with concrete refinishing – you’re only limited by your creativity and budget.

How Much Does it Cost to Resurface Concrete?

If your plan is to do the resurfacing yourself, your project cost will be determined by calculating the space you’re hoping to refinish. Head to your local hardware store and check out the directions on the package, and how much square footage each package will cover. Calculate the number of bags of concrete resurfacer required, and don’t forget to tally up additional costs such as buckets, trowels, squeegee, rags, stamps, nylon bristle brooms, etc.

If you don’t have the required tools or people to assist you to complete the job, or if you don’t have confidence in your skills, you might want to contact a concrete restoration company for a quote.

Can’t I just Learn How to Pour Concrete On My Own? 

It’s a relatively simple job to pour the concrete, however, if sections need to be replaced, repoured, and levelled, instead of simple resurfacing, the task becomes more complicated.

Since new concrete won’t adhere properly to the old, your first steps should include removing the existing concrete completely. You will also need to fully prepare the surface by ensuring your foundation is prepared, level,  and a form is built for the concrete to cure within. It’s also important that you have assistance with resurfacing because the concrete polymer dries very quickly.

Concrete resurfacing can make your driveway, walkways, patio, and poolside look great again, at a fraction of the cost of replacing it. If you’re not comfortable taking on this project yourself,  Contact us for a quote. We guarantee an efficient job with impeccable results.