Q. What is a Concrete Resurfacing System:
A. The decorative concrete system is a color integrated, modified acrylic, mixed with Portland cement and Polymer that is activated with a modified resin.
Q. How long has the product been in use?
A. Our product manufacturers have been producing resurfacing products since 1968. Acrylic Resurfacing has been in use since the early 1970’s. Polymer was added to the process in the late 1980’s to provide a superior bonding process of higher strength.
Q. How does the product bond with existing concrete?
A. We etch and wash the existing concrete or mechanically abrade it to clean off dirt, remove loose aggregate and open pores. Next, we apply a base coat of polymer and Portland cement to the surface as thinly as possible. This allows the maximum absorption of the polymer into the existing concrete rather than building up the existing surface. When the polymer dries, it becomes a part of the existing concrete. Because polymer is absorbed and dries as a part of the old surface, the polymer strengthens and makes dense the existing concrete, as the new application and old surface become an integrated piece.
Q. How thin is it applied?
A. The thinner we can supply the mixture the better, usually between 3/32” to 1/8”. We are more interested in getting the polymer to penetrate the existing concrete than building the existing higher. We also utilize leveling material to fill holes and build up uneven areas up to 2” (inches).
Q. Will my concrete still heave in the winter?
A. We can not eliminate the heaving of concrete. However, once existing concrete is resurfaced with our Concrete System, the surface will be denser and less porous. Less water will be retained by the concrete and therefore, lessen the effects of freeze/thaw cycles.
Q. Will the cold weather affect this System?
A. The product was tested by subjecting it to a 60 day freeze thaw cycle. This means that it was frozen and thawed 60 consecutive times with no adverse affect. It is stronger and denser than standard concrete and will hold up to cold weather much longer than standard concrete.
Q. How does this Concrete System provide protection from stains, oil spills, salt damage and discoloration?
A. Once the base coat is trowelled on and the Colored Decorative Coat is sprayed, the surface is sealed with a protective sealer. These sealers is non porous and UV protective.
Q. Will the Concrete System wear off?
A. Our Concrete System should not show wear providing that the sealer is replaced as wearing occurs. We estimate this to take place no sooner than 4 – 5 years under normal traffic conditions for a solvent based sealer. Other type sealers will give you different results; ask your dealer which sealer is best for your application. As long as the sealer is in good condition any wear will be absorbed by the protective coating.
Q. What colors does it come in?
A. We have many standard colors to choose from. The Unique Highlight System allows many different color combinations.
Q. Why should I repair my concrete rather than replace it?
A. If you replace your existing concrete you will be paying the cost of rip-out, removal, forming and pouring. This takes large equipment which sometimes causes damage to the landscaping. When completed you will have new concrete that will stain, will absorb oil, will be subjected to the dangers of salts, and only has the strength of 3,000 PSI. Repairing concrete with our System will be stronger than most concrete at 5,000 PSI, resist stains, resist oil spills and prevent salt damage. Additionally, it will add value to your home or property by making an attractive presentation of your concrete surfaces.
Q. Can this be used indoors?
A. YES! Our products are as useful indoors as well as outdoors commercial and residential. Our system can be applied in retail, warehousing, medical offices, educational centers, basements, kitchens, bath floors, and walls.
Q. Are the sealers safe?
A. There are a variety of sealers to choose from when completing a project. To determine which sealer to use, your dealer will take into consideration what traffic it will receive, if it is inside or out, and how accessible it will be if a reseal is needed.
Q. Can this be installed on new concrete surfaces?
A. Yes. Decorative concrete products are gaining popularity in new construction as a finished flooring product. The popularity is driven by unlimited design options for custom finsihes, minimal impact to the environment and durability.