Resurfacing and Repairing Concrete Floors

Concrete naturally wears out over time and may crack, stain, or lose its color, texture, and patterns. You can use gypcrete underlayment or other options to resurface and repair old, worn-out concrete without completely replacing it. Resurfacing works on all types of concrete floors, including basements, patios, driveways, and sidewalks. Here’s what resurfacing and repairing concrete floors entails:

Inspecting the Damage

Before you invest in gypcrete underlayment, overlays, and coatings, inspect the damage. The initial inspection allows you to assess the scale of the damage and determine the scope of resurfacing and repair work. Large or deep cracks and holes should be repaired to provide a structurally sound base for resurfacing.

Minor spalling and cracks may be resurfaced without extensive repairs, but uneven surfaces may involve extensive rough-ins and teardowns. Discoloration and loss of texture or patterns usually don’t involve any major repair work. Assessing the damage allows you to determine the severity of the damage and decide on repairs or full resurfacing. You can also identify the suitable resurfacing material.

Preparing the Floor

Concrete floor resurfacing usually requires thorough surface preparation, including cleaning, grinding, and repairs. Resurfacing involves installing a new top coat over the existing floor, which needs to be stable and free of any loose parts and contaminants. The floor surface is cleaned using acid, bleach, or detergents and pressure washed. Cleaning removes dirt, grease, debris, and deteriorated concrete while enhancing the floor for overlay adhesion. Any major cracks are repaired using concrete patching compounds, such as gypsum concrete, and smoothened with a trowel. If the cracks and damage affect a large area, a concrete grinder may be used to remove the old coatings and uneven spots.

Mixing the Resurfacer

Preparing the resurfacer can take on various approaches depending on the material you’ve chosen. If you’re using gypsum concrete, mix the powder with the recommended amount of sand and water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and add water gradually to achieve a smooth, pourable, and spreadable consistency. The final pour shouldn’t be too thick or too thin. Stick to the recommended gypsum concrete powder-to-sand ratio indicated on the packaging. Use a commercial-grade drill and mixer or a mechanical mortar mixer for larger jobs. You can also use a self-leveling resurfacer.

Applying the Resurfacer

Application begins once the resurface achieves suitable consistency. The minimum depth or thickness poured depends on the scale of damage, substrate, and fire rating. Floor resurfacing is usually handled by experienced professionals who can help you determine the ideal depth based on your needs. Some applications, like sidewalks, basements, and high-traffic areas, require thicker pours. The application involves using a long-handled squeegee or trowel to work the resurfacer into the surface. The pour should penetrate the cracks and pores and achieve even thickness. Work in small sections to prevent the resurfacer from setting prematurely. Feather the edges of the floor to blend with surrounding surfaces.

Finishing the Surface

The finishing touch starts immediately after pouring the resurfacer and involves using a broom to texture the surface. You can also use a textured roller to create unique patterns. Texturing helps to create a non-slip finish. You can also use a trowel to create a polished look. The finished surface is kept moist for at least a day or two to prevent shrinkage and cracks and promote a strong bond. Follow the manufacturer’s curing instructions and keep the area protected from heavy traffic. Apply a concrete sealant if necessary to enhance the floor’s durability and resistance to stain and moisture.

Find Quality Gypcrete Underlayment Today

Gypsum concrete is one of the options you have when looking for reliable concrete resurfacing materials. You can find high-quality underlayment that allows you to extend the lifespan of your concrete floor. Resurfacing also gives you a chance to customize your floor’s color, texture, and pattern for improved aesthetics. Contact an underlayment provider today to find out more about gypcrete.