Concrete Resurfacing Cost

• Expect to pay a resurfacing contractor $3 -$10 a square foot depending on the condition of the existing concrete, the resurfacing system used and local rates. Small residential projects tend to cost more per square foot and may be subject to a minimum charge of $500 -$1,000 or more. Resurfacing an average 500-square-foot concrete driveway typically costs $2,000 -$5,000.
• For do-it-yourselfers, resurfacing products in buckets or bags can be purchased at home improvement or hardware stories. Total DIY costs can be $2 -$5 or more a square foot, depending on the materials used. The resurfacing process doesn't require much skill, but it must be done relatively quickly (the material is typically malleable for about 20-30 minutes). ThisOldHouse.com estimates it took two people five hours and six bags ($150 -$180) of material to resurface a 9'x27' driveway and a 3'x18' walkway (about 300 square feet). Renting a pressure washer to clean the existing concrete before resurfacing can add $40 -$75 to the total DIY costs. Other tools needed might include an electric drill with mixing paddle; a caulking gun; a trowel, squeegee or push broom; and possibly a pump sprayer (for a texture coat in some systems).

• To be resurfaced, the concrete slab must be level, with only surface cracks. If the concrete is sunken because of shifting soil or extreme weight on the surface, uneven because of freezing conditions and ground swell, or has large cracks that go through the entire layer of concrete, resurfacing will not fix the problem and replacement may be the only option. Too much moisture in the concrete can also make resurfacing unsuccessful. ConcreteNetwork.com describes what makes an acceptable surface.
• The concrete must first be cleaned (typically with a pressure washer) to remove all dirt, oil or grease, and any loose pieces of concrete. Next, all cracks, holes and other surface imperfections should be patched, so they won't show through the new surface. The concrete should them be roughed, so it will create a good bond with the resurfacing material; resurfacing contractors typically use a grinder or shotlbaster to mechanically abrade the concrete. The resurfacing system should be installed according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually with a trowel or a long-handled squeegee, push broom or masonry brush. ConcreteNetwork.com provides photo illustrations of the steps needed to resurface a concrete driveway, and a video demonstrating the application of a resurfacing material called a skimcoat overlay.

• Resurfaced concrete should be preserved with a high-quality sealer ($20 -$80 a gallon), which makes the surface easier to clean and prevents stains while protecting color and improving resistance to moisture and abrasion. Interior resurfaced concrete floors may only require wet mopping or dry dust mopping, but outdoor surfaces may need to be re-sealed annually, depending on traffic and weather exposure.

• ConcreteNetwork.com describes the types of concrete overlays, provides a chart comparing different types of concrete overlay systems and lists the factors to consider when choosing a resurfacing system.
• Get recommendations for concrete resurfacing contractors from family, friends, or the staff at local home improvement or hardware stores. Or search for local contractors through ConcreteNetwork.com.
• Ask for examples (photos or addresses) of previous concrete resurfacing projects. Request and call references from previous customers; check that the company is properly insured, bonded and licensed. Check for any complaints filed with the Better Business Bureau.

More Articles in Damage Repair