The Definitive Guide To Concrete Overlays

If you’re planning a decorative concrete or stained concrete project, it’s important to understand what needs to be done to make your concrete slab perfect. Rather than demolishing and replacing your entire concrete floor, a cementitious overlay can be applied on top of the concrete so that it’s level. Cementitious overlays can then be polished or you can apply epoxy over them to create the surface that fits your needs.

A concrete overlay is a thin layer of cement applied on top of your existing concrete. It is often used to repair a floor, but it can also be added for decorative purposes. An overlay is also referred to as self-leveling cement. This can be applied to different surfaces.

To ensure the longevity of your concrete overlay, it’s important to prepare the surface and repair cracks. Otherwise, you won’t be able to expect it to last long at all.

Common areas where concrete overlays are used are:

Your concrete overlay costs will vary depending on the condition of your existing slab, and how much work you want to be done in terms of color and decoration, and the thickness of the cement that needs to be applied. Typically, applying a self-leveling cement can increase costs by almost 2x for a project, however, when compared to replacing the entire floor, it is more cost-effective.

When properly cared for, a concrete overlay can last for years. It needs to be thick, since much of its strength comes from thickness. If it’s applied too thin, it won’t be as strong as it could be, which means it’s more likely to crack and break.

If you’re tempted to save money and attempt a DIY concrete overlay project, it’s best left to professional contractors who are experienced. Many DIY resurfacing projects fail because the overlay doesn’t look as nice as the homeowner hoped, or ends up chipping, flaking, or cracking soon after installation is complete. While it may cost more upfront, the investment will pay for itself with how long it lasts.

We apply concrete overlays all over the country but the areas below a typical for concrete overlays.

Want to learn more about resurfacing the concrete in your home or business? National Concrete Polishing provides free estimates on all epoxy and polished concrete projects as well as floor preparation to make it easy for you.