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Can You Resurface a Concrete Patio? (The 6 Steps Involved)

Can You Resurface a Concrete Patio? (The 6 Steps Involved)

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Concrete is one of the most popular material options for patios. Not only is it easy to install, but you can add all sorts of design elements to the surface.

However, there are a few drawbacks to having a concrete patio. One of the most notable cons is that concrete can be difficult to repair.

So, when your patio surface starts to crack, you’ll need a quick solution. At this point, you may wonder, can you resurface a concrete patio?

If that’s the case, then we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about repairing your concrete.

Is Resurfacing a Concrete Patio Possible?

While concrete is simple to install, it’s also especially prone to cracking. Due to thermal expansion, the material swells and shrinks throughout the year.

This can make for an unattractive patio. Luckily, there are many methods of getting rid of this issue.

One of the most popular is resurfacing the concrete. As the name suggests, you’ll create a new surface by adding more cement and gravel on top of your deck.

Not only will this cover up any cracks, but it’ll conceal stains, and even out unlevel patio sections.

What Can I Resurface My Concrete Patio With?

There are quite a few options to pick from when it comes to resurfacing a concrete patio. In this section, we’ll go over some of the most popular choices.

Concrete Coating

Many people like to use concrete to resurface their patios. For starters, the material is affordable and readily available.

Other than that, it’s easy to work with. All you have to do is mix up the concrete, pour it, and wait for it to dry.

This will also give you the opportunity to add color or patterns to your patio. You can even use stencils to achieve all sorts of interesting designs.

Microtop Coating

Instead of pouring an entire layer of concrete, you can opt for micro-topping. The process involves spreading a fresh, thin coat of cement on top of the patio.

This should fill in any cracks and rejuvenate the deck. The only drawback is that this method doesn’t leave much room for customization.

Epoxy Coating

Another popular option is an epoxy coating. The material is far more durable than concrete and requires less maintenance.

Plus, it comes in many shades that stay bright for years to come. That means an epoxy patio will last a lot longer than a paved or concrete one.

Sadly, it’s also the most expensive method of resurfacing concrete.

Paint Coating

If you’re looking for a quick fix, then paint may be the way to go. It’ll bring in vivid colors and there are countless customization options.

On top of that, painting the patio is the most cost-effective resurfacing method.

However, the material isn’t all that durable. It won’t be able to handle the wear and tear of daily use.

Because of that, you’ll need to touch up the paint often.

How to Resurface a Concrete Patio

With the background information out of the way, it’s time to talk about resurfacing. Now, we can dive into the process of repairing your concrete patio.

Step 1: Check the Weather and Your Timetable

The first step of the project involves planning out the process. For starters, you’ll need to take the weather into consideration.

It’s crucial that you resurface concrete under a clear sky. Any rain or strong winds can mess with the materials you’re using.

Plus, the warmer the climate is, the less drying time you’ll need. So, it’s a good idea to tackle this project around summertime.

Finally, make sure you have enough time to complete the resurfacing. Once you start, you shouldn’t stop until the project is over.

Typically, you’ll need about five or six hours from start to finish.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

Resurfacing concrete isn’t a simple feat. For that reason, you’re going to need a few tools and materials to help you out.

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need:

  • Concrete cleaner
  • Resurfacing material (concrete, cement, epoxy, or paint)
  • Caulk gun
  • Masonry trowel
  • Sandpaper
  • Scrubbing brush
  • Protective goggles
  • Gloves
  • Heavy duty boots

You should be able to find most of these materials at your local hardware store or online. The clothing items on the list are optional, but they’ll make the process much easier and safer.

Step 3: Clean Your Patio

With your materials and tools ready, it’s time to begin. Start the process by thoroughly cleaning the concrete deck.

The fastest way to do that is with a power washer or a garden hose. You can buy an adaptor for your hose to turn it into a water jet.

Then, using the concrete cleaner and a scrubbing brush, go over the entire patio surface. Be sure to remove any dust and debris from all the nooks and crannies.

Step 4: Repair Cracks

Before you add a new layer on top of the concrete, you have to repair the cracks in the foundation.

The simplest method relies on a caulk gun. All you have to do is point the tip at a fracture, then squeeze some of the product to fill the space.

Next, use the trowel to level out the surface of the patio and wait for the caulk to dry. After a few hours, break out the sanding paper and smooth down the deck.

Step 5: Prepare Your Resurfacer

Depending on what material you choose, this step will be a little different. For example, with concrete, you’ll need to mix up cement powder with a bit of gravel.

To ensure you have the right proportions, it’s best to follow the instructions on the back of the packaging.

Step 6: Pour and Smooth Out the Resurfacer

All that’s left for you to do is pour the resurfacer on top of the patio. Then, using a trowel, spread the product over the surface and smooth it out.

During this step, it’s a good idea to work in small sections. This will allow you to take your time, without worrying about the resurfacer drying.

Finally, wait for the patio to completely dry before you walk on it. That’ll take anywhere between five and six hours, but it’s best to leave the surface untouched overnight.

How Much Does It Cost to Resurface a Concrete Patio?

The cost of the project will vary based on the materials you use and the size of your patio. This process can run you anywhere between a few hundred to a couple of thousand dollars.

That may seem like a steep price point, but it’ll be more affordable than replacing the patio altogether.

Can You Resurface a Stamped Concrete Patio?

Yes, resurfacing a stamped patio is possible. The process is incredibly similar to repairing a concrete deck.

You can apply a resurfacer coating and even add another stamp on top when you’re done.

Final Thoughts

Can you resurface a concrete patio? The answer to that question is a simple yes. With the proper tools and materials, you can add a coating to your deck.

First off, check the weather patterns and your timetable. Then, head out to your local hardware store and grab the equipment you need.

After that, clean your patio and repair any visible cracks. Finally, prepare your resurfacer, pour it on the deck, and smooth it out with a trowel.

Once the resurfacer dries, your patio should be as good as new.

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