Concrete is a durable building material that can last longer if maintained properly. However, cracks, discolouration and other issues can happen over time.
The good news is that you can fix those issues without completely tearing out and replacing your existing concrete structure. Resurfacing is an excellent option for fixing these problems and restoring your concrete structures.
Clean the Area
You’ll need a hose, a push broom, and some cleaner to clean the concrete. Using this approach, you can thoroughly clean your concrete without damaging it.
In addition to protecting your concrete, this step will help you remove any stains that may have stuck to it. For this purpose, you can use general-purpose cleaners, like vinegar or hydrochloric acid.
Another reason you should regularly clean your concrete is to prevent the growth of mould and mildew. These can cause many problems and even lead to health concerns for those who have contact with them.
To avoid these issues, you should always keep your concrete area clean and free of dirt, grit, and debris. It will help to prevent the buildup of abrasives and prolong the life of the concrete.
Lastly, it would help if you regularly swept the area to prevent dirt and debris from sticking to it. Alternatively, you can use a leaf blower to remove these items from the surface of the concrete.
Seal the Surface
Once you’ve resurfaced your concrete structures, you need to ensure the surface is protected. It means sealing the surface with a high-quality sealer. It will protect the concrete from fading, stains, water and other elements that may damage it over time.
Sealing your concrete surfaces will also help them maintain their new appearance for longer. The sealer will also make the cleaning and stain removal process easier so that resurfaced concrete surfaces can last for years.
Use a specially formulated crack filler to seal cracks in your exterior concrete surfaces, such as patios and driveways. This sealant will not sag in the crack and can stretch up to 700 percent while maintaining a strong bond with your concrete.
For larger cracks, insert a compressible foam backer rod into the joint before filling it with sealant. Leave about 1/8 inch of space above the rod for the sealant to adhere properly.
Lastly, you should make sure that the concrete is completely dry before applying any sealer to it. It will prevent the sealer from being damaged by water or stains and ensure that the concrete is protected from the sun’s damaging UV rays.
Apply the Resurfacer
The resurfacer is a thin layer applied over the concrete to cover chips, cracks and blemishes. It is generally used to fix damaged surfaces such as patios, walkways and driveways, and it dries to look like concrete.
Aside from the obvious cosmetic benefits, resurfacing can also increase the strength and durability of your concrete structures. It is because resurfacers are designed to be applied in extremely thin coats, which can make them much more durable than the original concrete base.
Before resurfacing, you must thoroughly clean the concrete surface to remove dust and dirt. It is especially important if you are resurfacing an outdoor area that will see heavy foot traffic and car use. You can use a power washer to get rid of the dirt and grime accumulating on your concrete, but if you don’t have a power washer, you can use a garden hose.
You should apply the resurfacer in small sections, working quickly so it doesn’t harden too soon and leaves a rough finish on your concrete. You can mix the resurfacer by hand, but you’ll probably end up with lumps in your final product unless you have a specialized tool to work the resurfacer with minimal mess.
Once the resurfacer has been applied, you need to let it dry for about 6 hours before walking or driving. It should be sufficient time for the resurfacer to cure completely.
Allow the Resurfacer to Dry
Once the resurfacer has been applied, it needs to be allowed to dry. It allows the resurfacer to bond with the concrete, which results in an attractive and durable surface. Ideally, allow it to dry for at least 24 hours before walking on it or driving over it.
It is also important to allow the resurfacer to cure before adding additional materials. It includes sealers and stains that can seep through the resurfacer.
After cleaning the area, any cracks and large spalled areas should be repaired with patching compound. It can be done by hand with a broom, brush, or pressure washer.
Another option is to hire a professional from https://skycogroup.com.au/resurfacing/ to do the work for you, as a DIY job may not result in the desired results. A professional can sandblast, power wash, and other methods to remove contaminants that could break the bond between the old concrete and the new resurfacer.
You should also ensure that you use a high-quality resurfacer during the resurfacing process. It is because a low-quality product will not bond properly with the concrete and will not last long.
