Q. How long has this product been in use?
A. Acrylic resurfacing has been in use since the early 1970's. Polymer was added in the 1980's to provide superior bonding properties, and increase strength, durability and longevity.
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Q. How does this product bond to concrete?
A. First, the surface is etched and pressure washed to clean off dirt, remove loose aggregate, and open the “concrete pores”. Next, a very thin "skim" coat of the acrylic cement mix is applied to provide maximum absorption into the pores of the concrete. Patterns are laid out using reinforced tape or stencils. When ready, a second coat is applied using either a drywall hopper in a random spray pattern, or a trowel for an alternative and unique custom look. When this coat is dry, the tape or stencils are removed, revealing the patterns. At this point, 2 to 3 coats of solvent-based sealer are applied. These sealer coats penetrate and soften the skim and spray coats and bonds all layers to the concrete. When dry, these two layers become a permanent part of the existing concrete, providing outstanding weather and stain resistant properties.
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Q. How thick is it applied?
A. Total thickness is approximately 1/8 - 3/32". We are more concerned with acrylic penetration into the concrete than building up the surface. In all actuality, the thinner it is, the better the flexural properties it has. This is very important in allowing for expansion & contraction of the concrete during freezing and thawing cycles. Larger and thicker repair areas are filled or rebuilt using ultra strong, high-density acrylic mortars.
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Q. Will my concrete still heave in the winter?
A. We cannot eliminate the heaving of concrete. However, and most importantly, after application, the surface will be denser and a lot less porous. Large cracks that previously allowed water penetration can be reduced. Consequently, less water is retained and normally the effects of heaving caused by the freeze cycles are noticeably reduced.
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Q. Is concrete resurfacing affected by cold weather?
A. No. Because it is an acrylic, it remains flexible, yet extremely durable. Freeze/thaw cycles cause concrete to expand and contract. Because it is essentially part of the concrete surface, it moves with the concrete, as opposed to against it such as other products like tile, slate, pavers, asphalt, and concrete patches.
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Q. How does resurfacing stand up against oils, stains, salts, and discoloration?
A. Because of the protective properties of the sealer coat, it is a non-porous finish. The majority of stains due to oil and grease wash off with mild detergent. Salt, deicers, and fertilizers, among others, have no effect on it whatsoever. In addition, because of its unique UV (ultra violet) additive, it will not discolor due to exposure to sunlight, even in the harshest conditions
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Q. Will it wear or chip off?
A. Our applications donot show any abnormal wear provided the acrylic sealer is re-applied according to our application schedule. We estimate this to occur no sooner than every 3 - 4 years under normal traffic conditions. As long as the sealer has been applied, the protective coating will absorb normal wear and tear. Any scuff marks, etc. generally disappear with a fresh application of sealer.
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Q. What are the color choices?
A. There are a variety of standard colors to choose from. Our unique highlighting system provides virtually unlimited color combinations. In addition, custom colors and personalized logos, monograms, and artwork can all add to the uniquely personalized applications that we are able to apply to your property.
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Q. Why should I repair my concrete instead of replacing it?
A. Concrete replacement generally requires heavy equipment that can cause damage to the surrounding areas including landscaping and sidewalks. Some surfaces are simply not accessible and must be removed with smaller equipment causing even greater expense. Being environmentally friendly, we try to minimize the discarded concrete that winds up in landfills. Once a concrete surface has been replaced, you simply have a newer surface that is still subject to the stains, the oil absorption, the spalling, the cracking, and the salt damage that caused you to replace your old surface in the first place.
Our systems do not require heavy equipment, and cause no landscape or environmental damage. Installation normally takes only a few days, depending on the size and condition of the project. When complete, not only is it beautiful, but also it can resist many of the effects that detracted from the look of the original surface including the stains, oil spills, and salt damage. In addition, it can be custom designed to match the look and style of your home, adding even more beauty and value to your property and neighborhood.
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Q. Is there a warranty?
A. Absolutely! All of our resurfacing projects carry a 3-year warranty against excessive fading, delamination and product failure. (Note: This warranty is based on reapplication of the sealer as needed. An inspection by the installer is required a maximum of every 2 years. We highly recommend you reapply the sealer at least every 3 - 4 years.)
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Q. What about service after the warranty expires?
A. If properly maintained, our resurfacing applications will last a lifetime. However, it can be repaired at any time during its useful life.
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Q. How is it maintained properly?
A. Although our system is extremely durable and tough, it is not completely indestructible. This is the general rule of thumb: if it can scratch, chip or damage concrete, chances are it can damage our application also. Exercise caution when setting heavy things on it. Take care not to drag heavy items that could scratch it. Periodic washings are all you have to do to maintain the surface. Clean oil spills and the like as quickly as possible to keep it looking new.
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Q. How does the resurface price compare to the price of concrete replacement?
A. The cost of basic broom finish resurfacing is normally 20% - 25% less than the cost of removing and pouring new concrete, leaving a more attractive and easer to maintain surface.
The cost of an overlay project will be directly linked with the complexity of the design.
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Q. What about expansion joints?
A. Expansion joints and cold or control joints are necessary to prevent inappropriate cracking of concrete. Concrete must be allowed to expand and contract with temperature changes. These joints provide a "controlled crack" for this movement. All expansion joints are left in place.
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Q. What about heaved, sunken, and severely damaged concrete?
A. Heaved (raised) concrete, is generally ground down, or the adjacent section is built up to meet it using a variety of materials. Severely damaged sections can be replaced as necessary. This helps to minimize the cost and time of replacing the entire area.
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Q. Can resurfacing be applied around pools?
A. MOST DEFINITELY!! The products we use are the ideal solution for all pool and spa areas. Our surfaces are non-skid, cooler than concrete, and will not stain or be adversely affected by pool chemicals. It also provides a perfect transition from pool to yard, and adds a customized finished touch unlike no other.
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Q. How soon can it be used after application?
A. For normal foot traffic (excluding high heels, cleats, or spikes): 24 hours (Under normal temperature and weather conditions) Vehicle traffic: 5-7 days
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Q. What surfaces can it be applied to?
A. Our products can be applied to any vertical or horizontal concrete surface. In addition, all other surfaces (stucco, wood, etc.) can have our system applied after proper preparation with a cementitious backer board such as Hardi Backer Board or DuRock or metal lath such as those used in the stucco industry.
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Q. How does this technique compare to tile?
A. All grout lines are stain and mildew resistant, making a viable alternative to a ceramic tile surface. Our surfaces remain clean and new looking for years, whereas tile floor surfaces collect dirt making them look old in a matter of months. Also, as tile can loosen and pop off, our product will flex with the substrate, maintaining its integrity and minimizing the difficulties in installations.
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