A concrete driveway overlay is a simple way to transform your driveway. It is a thin layer of concrete that is applied directly to the existing surface, thereby reducing time and cost. Before applying the overlay, the Concrete Driveway Repair Birmingham MI will remove all existing coatings and clean the surface. This will make it easier for the overlay to adhere to the driveway. Then, the company will prepare the mixture for application.
Cost of resurfacing a concrete driveway
If your concrete driveway is beginning to show wear and tear, you may want to consider resurfacing it. This process will restore the look of your driveway for a fraction of the cost of a full replacement. A contractor will be able to perform the project in as little as eight hours.
Cost per square foot can vary widely depending on the type of resurfacing you need and the condition of the existing surface. A basic resurfacing will cost between $2 and $3 per square foot, while colored or patterned concrete will run $4 to $8 per square foot. If you wish to replace the entire driveway, expect to pay a little more than twice that amount.
Depending on the type of concrete and the amount of surface area, resurfacing can cost anywhere from $1,400 to $2,300 for a 24′ x 24′ driveway. Resurfacing is often the best option for homeowners who wish to extend the life of their driveway without having to replace it entirely.
Requirements for resurfacing a concrete driveway
When it comes to resurfacing a concrete driveway, it is important to follow the proper procedures. For example, it is essential to clean the area completely of loose and flaky concrete before applying the resurfacing material. It is also important to ensure that the surface temperature is above 50 degrees F. You should avoid using soap or extraneous materials because these will interfere with the adhesion of the new resurfacing material. Additionally, you need to cover blemishes with concrete driveway repair Birmingham MI material to create a smooth canvas for the resurfacing material.
The best time to resurface your concrete driveway is when you notice significant damages. In such cases, it may be necessary to repair or replace the entire driveway. In general, the best way to prevent major damage is to clean the area frequently and hire a professional to clean the surface.
Moreover, resurfacing your concrete driveway requires the proper tools and products. To get started, you need to prepare the surface by cleaning it thoroughly and removing all debris. This will ensure that the new layer of concrete will bond better with the existing one. If you want to improve the look of your driveway, you should also consider applying decorative overlays.
Durability of a concrete driveway overlay
The most important factor for the durability of a concrete driveway overlay is the sub-base preparation. If the sub-base is not properly prepared, the concrete overlay may crack. It is also possible for existing cracks in the concrete to transfer through the overlay. Additionally, the concrete overlay must be kept damp while it cures. If it dries too quickly, it will crack.
The Portland Concrete Association recommends a concrete overlay that is one to two inches thick. While this thickness is appropriate for good concrete with no cracks, some circumstances will require a thinner overlay. Overlays less than an inch thick are more likely to delaminate from the base concrete, causing cracks. Although a thin concrete overlay can restore the original wearing surface, it will not add structural strength.
Depending on the material and the preparation process, a concrete overlay can last for several years. The overall longevity depends on several factors, including the quality of the overlay, the level of preparation, and the quality of the concrete underneath. Overlays can last for a few decades when properly applied, but they will wear out more quickly if they are improperly prepared.
Cost of resurfacing a concrete driveway vs. replacing a concrete driveway
Resurfacing involves pouring a new layer of concrete over the existing driveway. Resurfacing is typically less expensive than replacing the entire driveway. However, it does require the contractor to remove the existing top layer of concrete. This allows the contractor to apply a sealant to the underlying foundation.
The resurfacing process also resolves spalling issues on the driveway. The cost of this process is around $2.50 per square foot, which means that the cost of a 24 x 24-foot driveway is about $1,400 to $2,300. In addition, it requires demolition and debris removal, which can add an additional $2 to $6 per square foot.
Asphalt is typically less expensive than concrete. Concrete, for instance, costs about $5 per square foot. However, asphalt is not as durable as concrete and requires much more maintenance. The average lifespan of a concrete driveway is around two decades, while asphalt only lasts a decade or so. Concrete is more expensive, but can last longer.