More often than not, a homeowner only thinks about concrete replacement when the surface either looks dirty, starts to chip away or crack and they are unable to clean it themselves. This is a big issue in a place like Phoenix because of our temperature extremes. The fluctuations from season to season will take a large toll on concrete over time. Instead of tearing up existing concrete and replacing it, why not choose concrete resurfacing? It is a great, effective, and far more affordable alternative. Read on to learn how the professionals at Arizona Epoxy Systems resurface concrete, so you can take advantage of their expertise!

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Concrete resurfacing products are widely available at home improvement stores and such like and even the professionals use concrete resurfacing products such as Sakrete and Quickrete. These are usually made from a formula including fine sands, polymer modifying compounds, portland cement and additives that help the surfacer more simple to apply and be spread out over already existent concrete services. Generally speaking, these are spread out in thin layers measuring from one-sixteenth to one-half inch of thickness.

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It is important to remember these resurfacing products are only supposed to be utilized for covering the surface of the concerete irself. They will only work to repair the most minor pits and cracks from developing further. When you are facing more substaintial repairs such as those possessing vertical shifts or wide cracks, the professional contractor will first make a repair to the affected areas using a specific patching product before they then use their skills and follow up with a complete resurfacing treatment. Here is a look at some of the procedures they utilize:

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Surface Repair

Concrete resurfacers should be considered in the same league as cosmetic finishes as opposed to them being repair products. A professional will realize when there has been widespread damage and that it would be a folly to resurface when the problems are only going to be masked for a short while. But if there are only pits and minor cracks to be addressed, the professional contractor knows resurfacing can be highly effective with the provision that any outstanding damage is repaired with the appropriate patching formula before the commencement of work on the concrete resurfacing.

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Preparation

It is vital the surface of the concrete is cleaned of all loose dirt and  debris. A strong spray from a garden hose and long-handled scrub brush may suffice, but a good pressure washing will provide better cleaning. Oil stains, paint, or tree sap also need to be removed from the concrete.You cna apply a sealer prior to resurfacing if you are unable to remove all the stains. It is paramount expansion joints are protected when applying the resurfacer. Mask off the control joints with weather stripping or duct tape. This will prevent the resurfacer from filling them in. Resurfacer needs to be applied to a moist surface so that it won’t draw moisture out of the resurfacer as it cures. Just before mixing and applying the resurfacer, give the slab a cooling spray with the hose and sweep off any standing water from the surface.

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Mixing

For best results, mix and apply one bag of resurfacer at a time. One 40-pound bag will usually warrant six pints of water. Use warm water in cool temperatures, and cold water in warmer temperatures. At 73 F, you will have about 20 minutes of working time before the resurfacer hardens.

• Pour the water into a clean five-gallon plastic bucket.

• Empty the resurfacer into the bucket and mix for several minutes into a smooth, pourable consistency.

• Let the contents rest for a few minutes, and then mix it again.

• Add a little more water or resurfacer, if needed, to create a pourable mix that has the consistency of syrup.

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Application

The easiest way of applying concrete resurfacer is to pour a small amount on the surface, then without delay, spreading it evenly with a light, long-handled squeegee. Resurfacer can also be applied using a brush or trowel.

• Work in sections of no larger than 144 square feet at a time. Ensure you work to the  edges of control and expansion joints with each application.

• You can utilize a concrete edger for a nicer look, but only if you get to the edges within the first 10 to 15 minutes of application.

• If applying a second coat, let the surface dry for two to three hours, then apply a second coat following the same procedure.

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Curing

When concrete resurfacer cures, it becomes stronger as it hardens.

• Wait eight hours before walking on concrete that has been resurfaced and 2-3 days before attempting to drive on it.

• Resurfacer needs to be kept slightly moist during the curing process.

• Mist the surface with water two times per day for the first 2-3 days.

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Commercial & Residential Epoxy Flooring

If you have considered the benefits of epoxy floor coatings and are interested in this method for your business or garage, our team of professionals can install your new protective and glossy epoxy flooring. Epoxy flooring has numerous benefits, particularly in industrial buildings, factories, warehouses, garages, etc. in which floors are exposed to rough conditions. You can hire epoxy installers to take care of your epoxy floor coating needs.a