Before you run out and purchase any resurfacing system for your concrete flooring, you first need to ask yourself a few questions.  These questions will help you weigh the performance attributes each system offer against the aesthetic value of the resurfacing system.  Here are a few questions you need to ask in order to find the correct system that will offer the perfect balance between attributes you need and the aesthetic value you want.   

What is the condition of your existing concrete surface? 

Take an honest look at the existing concrete surface you want to resurface.  If it has several cracks or gouges, is unlevel, and badly stained.  Then you may want to consider a self-leveling or stampable overlay that is applied at 1/4 inch thickness or greater.  The reason is that unless you want to pay the added cost of having the surface expertly patched and leveled, the imperfections will more than likely telegraph through thinner overlays, including micro topping or skim coat.  

Another concern that you have to address is if there is too much moisture in the concrete.  Moisture often creates problems for many overlay systems because they restrict the concrete’s ability to “breathe” or release moisture vapor as needed.  This can cause bond failures, which will result in the resurfacing system to bubble, and peel away from the concrete.  There are simple tests you can perform to check the moisture vapor emission rate of your concrete surface.    

The overlay will be exposed to what type of conditions? 

You want to make sure that the resurfacing system you select will be strong enough to withstand all the conditions it will confront.  This means that if the concrete slab is located outdoors then the resurfacing system needs to be able to withstand the weather that it is subject to, including extreme weather such as hail, freezing temperatures and of course any outdoor activities it will be subjected too as well.  Many systems will stand up to wear, chemical attack, and dirt penetration when they are properly installed and sealed.  However, some systems will stand up better to harsher conditions than other systems.    

How much will the system cost to install? 

Possibly the number one question many homeowners ask, is how much will the system cost.  The total cost of overlay installation will be more expensive than if you simply stain, stencil, stamping, or use decorative engraving or even saw cutting produce a pattern into the surface.  In addition, if you plan to use integral color combinations with broadcast pigments and stains or dyes, these will also increase the cost of the system.   

If you plan to do-it-yourself, how easy will the product be to apply? 

Okay, if you are an avid do-it-yourselfer, then no matter what product you chose you would more than likely be able to apply it yourself.  However, for the majority of individuals the ease of the application will more than likely influence which concrete overlay product you select.  Some products on the market are like cake mixes in that all you need to do is add water and follow the few easy steps.  On the other hand, there are products, which require mixing all of the ingredients including the polymer additive and desired pigmentation with the cement and any other dry ingredients that the kit may include.  Still other products, the most difficult part of application is the preparation work before hand as they are applied directly over the properly prepared concrete surface.  Then there are products that require the application of a primer or bonding agent before overlay can be applied.  In addition, if you are deciding between pourable and trowel applied products, pourable, self-leveling systems will cover floors faster and usually will have less finish work than trowel- or spray-applied products.  Keep in mind that each system has its advantages as well as its disadvantages so carefully read the manufacturers material before making your decision.   

Once installed, how much maintenance is required to keep the resurfacing product looking great? 

To answer this question, I must first stress the importance of applying a compatible sealer to any decorative overlay.  Protective sealers will provide protection from water penetration, stains, dirt, grease, and everyday wear.  In addition, a sealed surface will also be easier to clean, cutting down on the amount of required maintenance needed.  Once the proper sealer has been applied, your floors will typically require only routine sweeping to remove any dirt particles and occasional wet mopping with a mild detergent.  Occasionally you may need to use a pressure washer on a low setting to clean exterior slabs.  It is important to be aware that many manufacturers of concrete overlay product recommend resealing the surfaces annually, especially for surfaces that have high traffic and those surfaces that are exposure to freeze-thaw conditions.   

What type of look do you want to achieve?