Can Concrete Steps Be Resurfaced?Concrete surfaces require constant maintenance and upkeep. From cracks due to age to water damage, it can be very expensive to fix them properly. The good thing is, that there are ways to resurface unsightly concrete steps to make them look great again, whether it involves using cement, brush, concrete overlay, or polymer modifiers. A number of methods exist for resurfacing concrete steps. These include techniques like epoxy coatings, plastic overlays, and even new concrete construction. We'll review each step and explain exactly what happens when taking it apart and putting it back together. Most homeowners want to re-use their old concrete steps, but they don't realize that their old step risers might become dangerous hazards. Is resurfacing concrete a good idea?The answer depends on the condition of your existing concrete steps. If you have cracked or loose concrete steps, then resurfacing may be an excellent option. However, if your concrete steps are in decent shape, then resurfacing will likely not be necessary. In this case, we recommend replacing your existing concrete steps with brand new ones from our selection of precast concrete stairways that are available in a wide variety of colors. Step Risers Are Dangerous Hazards Concrete steps are often used as walkways to get from one level to another. When these steps are damaged due to heavy foot traffic, they pose a serious hazard. People walking on them can slip and fall if they aren't repaired correctly. This could result in severe injury or death. The Problem With Epoxy Coatings Epoxy coatings are a popular way to resurface concrete steps and hiding surface imperfections. They usually consist of two parts: a resin and a hardener. The problem is that the resin is toxic and may cause skin irritation. In addition, the hardened resin dries out quickly so it needs to be reapplied frequently. This makes the whole project more difficult than it really needs to be. Plastic Overlays Plastic overlays are another option for resurfacing concrete steps, but they also have drawbacks. First off, they're not permanent. They can chip and peel away or reveal minor cracks over time. Second, they're flimsy and won't last long. Finally, they're not easy to apply. This means that you'll have to spend extra money to rent or buy special equipment just to broaden tour repair options. New Construction Another method of resurfacing concrete steps involves using new concrete instead of repairing existing ones. This is a better solution because it doesn't involve any chemicals at all. However, it does mean that you'll have to tear down your current steps and rebuild them from scratch. That's going to result in spending quite a bit of money due to labor costs. Color Application for your Concrete SurfaceIf you decide to resurface your concrete steps, you should consider applying colors or patterns to the surface. This will give your steps a fresh appearance while still maintaining their structural integrity. You can choose from a wide range of colors such as red, green, blue, yellow, black, white, etc. A painting project for concrete steps resurfacing isn't always a bad idea. It depends on how much work you need to do to make your steps safe and beautiful again. If you have cracks or other problems on the solid base, then a concrete resurfacer may help. But if your steps look fine, then resurfacing probably isn't worth the trouble. How Change in Temperatures Affect Unsound ConcreteHave you ever wondered why concrete steps seem to get darker after rain? There are several possible reasons for this occurrence based on the current temperature, but they tend to fall into two categories: weather-related or surface related. 1) Standing water seeps through the expansion joints between the individual blocks of concrete. 2) Moisture collects under the treads of your stairs. 3) Water enters the pores of the concrete itself. Weather conditions affect the amount of moisture that gets absorbed by the concrete. The sun heats up the concrete and causes it to expand. As the concrete expands, air pockets from inside the structure. Air pockets allow warm water to enter the concrete and greatly impact its strength. The weight of people standing on the steps creates pressure against the concrete. As a result, the concrete begins to crack. The weight of the people standing on the steps causes the concrete to shift. This movement weakens the bond between the concrete and its surrounding mortar. When the cement in the mortar starts to dry out, it shrinks. This shrinkage pulls the concrete apart from the surrounding mortar. The shrinking process continues until there is no longer enough adhesion holding the concrete together. Once the mortar has dried completely, the concrete becomes brittle. This makes it easier for the concrete to have loose pieces and abandon its compressive strength. Eventually, the entire stairway collapses. To prevent this from happening, you must repair the problem before it becomes too big. In order to fix the problem, you must remove the damaged area and replace it with new concrete mix products. New concrete is stronger than old concrete. Therefore, when you install new concrete, it won't be affected by the same problems that caused the original deterioration. Once you've installed new concrete, you can paint it to match the rest of your home. An Experienced Concrete ResurfacerIf you're thinking about resurfacing your concrete steps, then you need an experienced concrete resurfacer who knows how to do the job right, has done extensive repairs, and uses quality cement products. You should never attempt this on your own because it's a complicated process and requires specialized equipment. If you try to do it yourself, you could end up with a mess that will take weeks or months to repair. It's best to hire someone who has experience in doing concrete work. They have the tools and know-how to use them safely. Concrete Repair CostsThe average cost of repairing concrete steps varies depending on the size of the project, the materials used, and the skill level of the contractor. Concrete costs can range anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 or more, considering the additional labor cost for a complete concrete step makeover.
It's always better to get estimates before starting the job so that you can compare prices and find one that works within your budget and your concrete resurfacing idea.
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How is ready-mix concrete made?Ready-mixed concrete comes in two main types: Dry and wet. The dry type comprises cement (cement), sand, water, and aggregate. Wet mix concrete consists of cement, water, aggregate, and sometimes additives such as retarders or accelerators. Both types require mixing before use. Ready-mixed concrete (RMC) is usually required at construction sites where land preparation would otherwise be done manually. RMC is also commonly used for road surfacing projects. Some ready-mixed concrete products contain additives to promote strength after setting. These raw materials include water reducers, silica fume, fly ash, pozzolans, and polymers. Minimum Cost for Ready-Mixed ConcreteThe cost of a cubic meter of ready-mixed concrete depends on the type of product being produced, its quality, and the location of construction projects. For example, if you are using high-quality concrete with long service life, then you will pay more than if you were using low-cost concrete that has a short service life. Because of these factors, it’s important to consider your needs when choosing a ready-mixed concrete supplier. You should look for one that offers minimum but competitive pricing and can meet your conditions. It’s also wise to do some research about the company’s reputation and track record. Types of Ready-Mix ConcreteDry Mix Concrete This is the most common form of ready-mix concrete. In this process, cement, sand, gravel, and water are mixed together in a concrete mixer truck. The mixture is then transported to the site of the construction project where it is poured into forms. Wet Mix Concrete This is similar to the dry mix form of concrete but requires less handling because there is no need to transfer the material from cement mixers to the job site. Instead, the ingredients are added directly to the concrete mixer truck. When the concrete is finished, it is pumped to the job site. Additives Some ready-mix concrete products have additives that help them set faster, resist corrosion, or improve their durability. These raw materials may include water-reducing agents, silica fume, fly ash, pozzolans, and polymer admixtures. Mixing Cement with Coarse Aggregates for Long-lasting Strength of Building Materials for Long-Lasting StrengthIn general, cement sets up much faster than other materials. This means that it takes longer to pour concrete. To overcome this problem, builders often add coarse aggregates to the concrete mixing process. Coarse aggregates are rocks or stones that range in size from 1/4 inch to 2 inches. They provide support for cubic yards of cement matrix and allow the concrete to develop greater compressive strength. When building materials are exposed to moisture, they begin to rust due to a chemical reaction. Rust stains can ruin the appearance of buildings and cause expensive repairs. To prevent this, builders often apply a coating called paint to the exterior surfaces of buildings. But paints aren’t always effective. Builders often choose to coat steel reinforcing bars with zinc oxide to protect against rust. However, zinc oxide isn’t very durable. So, builders use an alternative material of choice: galvanized steel. Galvanizing protects the steel by creating a layer of iron oxide on the surface. Galvanized steel resists rust better than uncoated steel. And it lasts longer than zinc oxide. Ready-mix concrete suppliers typically offer two types of concrete: standard and premium. Standard concrete contains only a mixture of cement, sand, and gravel. Premium concrete adds additional ingredients in concrete such as polymers, air entrainment agents, and fibers. It can be used for many different applications and mixing phases using high-grade equipment. It helps reduce noise levels, improves thermal conductivity, and reduces shrinkage. It’s especially useful for constructing roads and bridges. Ready-mix concrete suppliers usually sell premixes that contain all the necessary ingredients. Premixes are convenient because they eliminate the need to measure out basic ingredients individually. However, premixes don’t always work well. For example, if you order a premix that doesn’t contain enough cement, the resulting concrete will not harden properly. It’s best to buy premixes that contain at least 65% cement. If you want to know how much cement is in your premix, ask the supplier. Premixes also vary in terms of quality. Some premixes are more consistent than others. The consistency of a premix depends on the manufacturer. The most important thing when buying premixes is to ensure that the product meets industry standards. Ask the supplier about its performance records using building equipment. If you’re unsure what kind of premix to purchase, ask the supplier for advice. He or she should be able to tell you whether your needs match one of the premixes available. What Type of Water is used for Concrete MixtureWater is essential for the concrete mixture. There are three main types of water used for concrete mixtures: freshwater, seawater, and recycled water. Fresh water is the purest form of water. It does not have any impurities. Sea water has salt in it. Salt makes concrete stronger. When mixed with fresh water, the salt dissolves into the water. Recycled water is wastewater that has been treated. This type of water may have some contaminants like oil, grease, and other chemicals. These substances must be removed before using the water for mixing concrete. Fresh water is generally preferred over sea water and recycled water because it costs less. Concrete Mixing Project DesignA project design on demand includes information about the size and shape of a structure. Design professionals use the information to determine the amount of concrete needed based on the property owner's design specifications. In addition, a project design describes the location of reinforcement bars (bars that reinforce the concrete). Reinforcement bars are placed inside the concrete so that it won't crack. They help prevent cracks from forming and bring surface durability properties counteracting adverse conditions.
A project design also includes information in terms of strength required by the structure. Strength requirements depend on the application using specialized equipment. For instance, a bridge requires greater strength than an average building in terms of ground conditions. In fact, a typical house requires almost no strength. Designers use this information to calculate the supply of material needed for major projects. Finally, a project design provides details about the placement of reinforcing steel. Steel rods are placed in the concrete after it's poured. They provide additional support for the concrete. Steel rods are typically placed every 4 inches along the length of the wall. You can find project designs online from design communities. You can also download them from manufacturers' websites. Some project designs include drawings showing where reinforcement bars and steel rods should be located. When designing a project, designers consider several factors. For example, they take into account the climate where the structure will be built. They also consider the load the structure will bear. Load refers to the weight of people or equipment that the structure will hold up. When determining the strength of a structure, engineers look at the loads that are applied to the structure for quality assurance purposes. Engineers measure these loads by applying weights to the structure. Then, they record how much force the structure holds up against those weights. The engineer compares the recorded forces to the strength of the materials used to build the structure. The results of the tests show the maximum load that the structure can withstand without breaking down. This information helps the engineer determine whether the structure was designed correctly. Will a Patio Increase Home ValueWhen it comes to selling your house, you want to get top dollar for your property. What if I told you that adding a patio could improve the asking price of your house? In some areas, a new outdoor space can increase your home’s value by several thousand dollars. Adding a patio can also add curb appeal to your home. People who live near parks or green spaces tend to pay higher prices for their homes than those without these features. If you're thinking about spending thousands of dollars on building out a backyard, consider a solar panel system. These panels generate electricity from sunlight, allowing homeowners to save energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint. You might even earn extra income renting your space to businesses that require shade. Whether it's a restaurant, coffee shop, or retail store, a patio adds value to your home and brings it closer to perfect condition. How your Outdoor Patio can Increase your Return on InvestmentA patio is an excellent addition to any home because it provides many benefits. It can be used as a relaxing spot to enjoy time with family and friends, a place to entertain guests, or a quiet retreat to read a book. The best part about patios is that they are easy to build. You don't need to hire a professional contractor, so you can start enjoying this feature right away. Here are three ways that a patio will help boost your home's value: 1. Patio increases curb appeal If you have a front porch, then you already know how important it is to make sure your home looks nice and if it's following current trends. But when you step inside, there's nothing more important than making sure your home feels welcoming. A well-designed patio, just like the ones in a remodeling magazine, will do just that. You can add features like concrete pavers, outdoor lighting, natural stone, ceiling fan, and shade structure for your extravagant patio. 2. Patio boosts resale value When people decide to sell their houses, they usually put them up for sale in real estate markets in the springtime. This means that buyers are looking to purchase a home during the warmer months. The problem is that most houses aren't ready to show off their best features until fall. That's why having a beautiful patio can give potential buyers something to look forward to. 3. Patio saves money One way to cut down on utility bills is to install a solar panel system. By generating power from the sun, you'll be able to use less energy and lower your monthly bill. Plus, installing a solar panel system can help you save money over the long term. In short, a patio is one of the easiest additions you can add to your backyard features. With minimal effort, you can create a basic patio space where you can relax after a busy day. And since an average patio doesn't cost much to build, you won't break the bank either. Covered Patio Installation CostTo determine how much it will cost to install a covered patio at your home, you first need to calculate how large the area needs to be in your backyard space and where would be the perfect spot to install your landscaped patio. Once you've determined the size, you can estimate the materials needed to construct the structure. That will serve as your initial investment for your improvement project that aligns with your home's architectural style. For example, if you plan to cover approximately 100 square feet, you'll need four 2x4 boards to build the frame. Each board should measure 16 inches by 8 inches, which totals 32 square inches. To complete the project, you'll need two pieces of plywood measuring 24 inches by 48 inches. Once you have all the materials, you can begin construction. First, lay out the perimeter of the structure using stakes and string. Then, mark the center point of each corner. Next, position the 4x8s along with the corners and attach them to the stakes using wood screws. Finally, add the top cap and bottom cap to finish the job. Once the frame has been completed, you can begin adding the roofing material. For small projects, you may want to buy a kit that includes everything you need to get started. However, if you're building a larger structure, you'll likely need to hire a contractor who specializes in covering patios. The average cost to cover a patio with vinyl siding ranges between $3,000 and $5,500. If you choose to go with cedar shingles instead, the price tag goes up to around $6,000. Wooden Decks and Backyard Patio for your Outdoor Living SpaceA wooden deck or backyard patio is an excellent addition to any property. It’s also a great investment because it adds value to your outdoor living space. Here are some reasons why: 1. Wood is durable Unlike other types of materials, wood lasts longer. In fact, a wooden deck or patio can last for decades without requiring maintenance. You don’t have to worry about rotting or warping as long as you maintain it properly. 2. Wood is versatile You can easily customize a wooden deck or patio to fit your lifestyle. Whether you prefer a traditional design or a modern style, there are many options available. 3. Wood is environmentally friendly If you live near a forest, then you already know what I mean when I say that wood is eco-friendly. Because trees grow quickly, they absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the air. They also provide shade, which helps keep our homes cool. 4. Wood is affordable Building a wooden deck or patio is easy and inexpensive. All you need is a few basic tools and supplies. The best part? You can do most of the work yourself. 5. Wood is timeless When you invest in a wooden deck or patio, you’re not just buying a product; you’re investing in quality and craftsmanship. A wooden deck or patio looks good no matter what time period your house was built. Concrete Patio to Match your Stone GardenWith concrete patios, you can create a beautiful patio that complements your existing landscape. Concrete patios come in different shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. When choosing a patio color, consider whether you want something bold or subtle. To make your patio look more natural, use plants and flowers. These elements help break up the hard lines of a concrete patio. Plus, they give your patio a lush appearance. To build a concrete patio, start by digging a hole for the base of the slab. This should be at least 3 feet deep. After this, pour the concrete mixture into the hole. Let the concrete set for 24 hours before removing the forms. Next, apply a sealer to the surface of your patio. Use a brush to spread the sealer evenly across the entire area. Be sure to follow all directions included in the package. Once the sealer dries, you can add decorative stones, bricks, pavers, or other items to your patio. To protect these additions from moisture, paint them first. Then, let the paint dry completely before applying the sealer again. You can pick your own patio furniture that complements the outdoor features of your lawn to increase the appeal of your estate. Paver Patio Structures Improve the Style of Lawn and LandscapingThe paver patio is one of the most popular outdoor patio designs today. Paving is a perfect way to enhance your yard and landscape. There are several benefits to using paving blocks. For example, they are low-maintenance and require little upkeep. However, if you are looking for a more permanent option, you may want to consider installing brick pavers. Brick pavers offer a number of advantages over cement block pavers.
For starters, brick pavers are much sturdier than their cement counterparts. They are made with high-quality material and will withstand extreme weather conditions. Another advantage of brick pavers is that they are easier to install. If you choose to install brick pavers on your own, you can save money because you won’t need to hire an expert. Brick pavers are available in a variety of styles. Some brick pavers are shaped like circles, squares, rectangles, triangles, diamonds, hexagons, octagons, and even hearts. Other brick pavers include brick veneers, brick walls, and brick arches. If you have a small backyard, you can still enjoy the benefits of a brick patio. You can lay out a brick pathway, walkway, or driveway. Or, you can simply place bricks around your flower beds, vegetable gardens, or any other areas where you would like to grow grass. If you live in a colder climate, you may want to install a heated brick patio. Heated brick pavers provide warmth during cold winter months. A brick patio also provides privacy. It is easy to hide behind a brick wall when you don’t want people to see what you are doing. A brick patio is a great choice for anyone who wants to bring some character to their garden or yard. The beauty of brick pavers is not only their durability but also how well they blend in with the rest of your yard. How to keep stamped concrete from being slipperyStamped concrete which has been sealed tends to be slippery especially if it’s brand new. Outdoor or indoor floor concrete projects are relatively simple and concrete settles quickly and can be stamped for the pattern or style you want. This concrete however has several additives and also an unpolished look which people try to avoid. Hence for a more polished look and to protect the cement, sealing is a great option. It prevents the concrete to fade due to UV rays or in case of severe thunderstorms. Most people in such cases resort to sealing their floor but wet sealer and even as it dries is slippery and hence not safe for walking especially for adults and children. Essential Steps:I will now go over a few basic things which can be done to prevent the floor from being slippery after the application of sealer or just use materials for coatings which are not slippery.
Now I will advice you of some other tips and options you can go for if you want a slip-free flooring experience. Sun shouldn’t be out:When you are planning to put non-slip sealer or coatings on the concrete surface, you have to make sure to pick a day which is not sunny. This way you will have more time before it dries and you can consistently apply it with a brush or a broom. You will be able to spread it more evenly and also apply more than one coating if needed before everything dries out. Nano Beads:This is another latest technique which is done with acrylic coatings or simple coatings. You can spray the coating on top of the concrete and then spray a coating of these nano beads on top of it. What this will do is give a slight texture on top of the sealed concrete or simple concrete which will give us the much needed friction. Coatings on Sealer:In the case where you want to layer a sealer with non-slip agent on top of a sealed concrete, that will create problems. If you layer a sealer on top of another sealer, it will flake and chip and will ultimately fail as it will be difficult to discern where the sealer ends and the concrete begins. You then have to figure out how to strip and get rid of it. In such a case a coating is applied on top of the sealer and then nano-sized beads or non slip agents are splayed on top for more durability in terms of longevity and friction. Questions:Can acrylic coatings be applied on stamped or brush finished concrete?
You may think that because of the low density of the coating it cannot be applied to stamped concrete but that’s not quite right. It can be applied over both smooth and stamped and broom finished concrete and it also protects the color added in the concrete. Why do people not prefer 100 mesh for pool areas and steps? 100 mesh is a size too small which stays suspended in the sealer and hence offers less non-slip factor than the 40 and 60 mesh. Pools are areas where you need a good grip on the floor as there is already the water element present which can cause people to slip more often than in any other place. Hence 40 and 60 mesh are better as they settle in the sealer and offer more friction. Do acrylic coatings have any more benefits? Acrylic coatings are better because they are textured. They are highly safe and offer a non-slip surface. On top of this because of the heavy duty resin present in them, they offer superior adhesion to the concrete surface as well as a consistent color and a brighter, fresher look. Is coating needs to be done more than once for it to stick? You may need to put the coating with a sprayer more than once. First time you can spread it with a brush, then spray it again and brush over it again. This is when it’s really going to lock it in and make sure the coating sticks. For all your Stamped concrete needs, call Syracuse Concrete today at 315-201-5795! Does Concrete Resurfacing Last?If you are having issues with the concrete job you got done a few years back and thinking of ways to preserve it and make it new again then a viable option you will see on the internet is concrete resurfacing. Such resurfacing is usually done on roads, sidewalks, patios and driveways where the concrete is exposed and hence gets subjected to all the different factors which cause it to wear out. Concrete is definitely one of the most durable materials which is why it is used in almost all building projects. But with time as it gets constantly exposed to heavy cars, traffic, sun damage, carbon dioxide and other atmospheric changes it starts to deteriorate and changes its color as well which is why it needs resurfacing. Essential Steps and Pointers:The main question now is how long it lasts. It all depends on the conditions with which it was placed. If you take care of all the proper steps then it will of course last long but if they are ignored then it won’t take long for it to get in the same position as the concrete before.
Composition of Concrete Resurfacer:You can get concrete resurfacer bags in different hardware shops. It mainly is cement with some additives like sand, polymer modifiers and other strong bonding agents which helps it stick to the concrete well as it’s a thin layer. The consistency should be that of a syrup so keep adding water till you reach that. Prepping the Surface for ApplicationUsing an angle grinder to completely even out the previous cement is an important step. This removes all the bumps and irregularities and gives you a smooth surface to work with. You can also use a hammer to break the parts that are too big. You can use a broom to clean the small rocks and cement residues. It is then crucial that you pressure clean the surface and then again drench it in cool water. Do not let it dry after you have cleaned it and apply the resurfacer on the wet slab. This prevents the concrete below to absorb the water from the resurfacer and lets it stay in the syrup like consistency needed for resurfacing. Cracks and holes:Sometimes when the concrete is in really bad condition and you’re thinking that a thin layer of the resurfacer cannot mend it completely then there is a trick for that. You can first make a batch of resurfacer and fill all the cracks and crevices if there are a lot. The prepping will be the same as I mentioned above. It will then be dried till it sets well. You will use the angle grinder again to smooth it further. A new batch of resurfacer will be made and again using a cement spreading broom, you will lay down a clean, smooth layer again after prepping the surface again. A good quality cement sealer can prevent the cracks from emerging again. Questions:Can you get any textures done on the resurfacing?
Just like concrete you can also get different styles and textures done to the resurface. You can get it stamped, brush finished and pigmented whichever way you prefer. What kind of stains can be used in the concrete? You can get concrete specific stains in any hardware store so make sure to use those. If you use any other stains they would not mix in the concrete and make it splotched and uneven. Mix the resurfacer well after adding the stain which you can do with some sort of electrical mixer instead of by shovel as its consistency is a lot thinner than regular concrete. How to check the condition of the concrete? You can obviously inspect it yourself but it is beneficial to hire someone to do the job so they can give you the exact specifications of how much deterioration is actually present and what kind of resurfacing job is needed. For all your Concrete Repair and Concrete Resurfacing needs in Syracuse, NY. Call us at Syracuse NY Concrete today! Is an Uneven Concrete Floor Bad?​Uneven concrete floors create a lot of discrepancies and issues for people. When we talk about uneven concrete we are not only talking about the issues caused by contractors who haven’t done a very good job but also unevenness created as a result of time as well as natural disasters like earthquakes. If you’ve ever had to deal with such an issue then today I will guide you on how unevenness in concrete floor as a result of any of the above reasons can be bad for you and how you can remedy that before it starts to cause too many problems. Essential Steps and Pointers:Disproportion in a concrete floor can be a cause of mental and physical issues for you, which I will discuss further with you. You can also earn a few tips for a perfectly even floor.
Leveling concrete:A simple basic method that most people nowadays use is wooden rods the length and width of the floor as guides to judge the height of the cement. You will use two or three wooden rods and place them down as triangles or squares where you need to load cement. You will then place a leveler on top of the rods to check if they are even all the way through and glue them down to the floor. Pouring cement in the spaces between the rods will give you perfect symmetry and you can then install your flooring plan with a smooth bottom. Fixing holes:After picking up the stray rocks inside and surrounding the area, you can use a hammer at first to break the ridges present on the sides of the holes and level them a bit. You can also use some other power tool but you have to break it from the top. You will then use a vacuum cleaner to catch the concrete dust and little rocks to prepare a clean surface for the concrete to be laid on. You can then simply fill it with concrete and the basic goal here is to make sure the empty spaces are all filled up. You can then level it off. Self-leveling Compound:A bad concrete job, as signified by bumps, cracks and domes can be remedied by a self-leveling compound. When you have to put some form of flooring down like wood, tiles or marble, you need a perfectly smooth surface. Mostly the floor after laying the concrete needs some professional work so that it stays perfectly smooth and consistent as it dries. Usually when building a whole house, workers don’t pay much attention to perfection. Similarly when you are planning to install a new type of flooring plan after a few years, you need a smooth surface. Self leveling compound is kind of like cement but it’s very liquid and it gives a much cleaner and leveled look. You need to place some bonding material between the cement and the self leveling compound to ensure perfect grip. Questions:What is the best way to level the concrete?
Getting a feather finish is the goal to leveling concrete. You can use a scrapper to get rid of the chunky transition points. You can first scrape, let it dry a little and then smooth it down again before it dries completely. This will give you a very smooth finish. Why does concrete disintegrate slowly over time? A lot of factors cause a concrete to crumble or split over time. Atmospheric conditions including humidity as well as extreme cold can cause fragments of cement to come off giving an uneven look. Moreover free hydroxide ions in cement react with carbon dioxide which causes shrinking of cement leading to cracks. Use of acidic cleaners on the floor also breaks up the cement. For Concrete Floor Leveling in Syracuse NY, call us today at 315-201-5795. How to remove concrete sealer from stamped concreteStamped concrete, also known as stampcrete is one of the great home styling options as it gives the impression of a stone, tile, brick or even wood, all the while being cheaper than them. Many people choose this style of concrete in their patio or outside garden for a more aesthetically pleasing look. However, the problem with this is that after about 2 to 5 years, the sealer gets old, changes its color and starts flaking off, giving the stamped concrete a very old and unfinished look. The sealer is the material which provides the overall finished look to the stamped concrete and hence makes it look new by preventing staining from UV rays or general toxins. It does however get worn off in time which is why you will need to remove it and apply a new layer. Essential Steps:Today, I will be giving a basic how to on removing a concrete sealer from stamped concrete.
Types of sealers:There are basically two types of sealers, water based concrete sealer and a solvent based acrylic sealer. Both have different ways to remove them. There are many commercial Strip It solutions which you can use as they are prepared formulas but for basic guidance, a water based sealer gets off with a commercial solution or you can use acid in which case, you have to neutralize it with a base afterwards. You can also flake away all the sealer by hand. In case of a solvent based acrylic sealer you can use xylene, but only if the sealer was not dyed. A solvent based stripper will also work just fine. How to find which sealer it is?So, generally out of these two sealers you can find out which one you are working with y just asking the person who did it in the first place. In case that’s not an option you can try putting xylene on the floor. If the floor becomes sticky then its solvent based acrylic sealer, whereas if the floor remains tacky then it’s a water based sealer. Cleaning Options:Generally after all the sealer has been scooped out, you need to clean the concrete perfectly. The most proper way is to use a cleaning solution by a brand if you are working with an indoor area and use a rotary scrubber to clean it out. But if it’s outdoor and you have the resources available then you can use pressure water cleaning to really get out the dirt and mold sitting in the crevices of the stamped concrete. Re-sealing:There are some rules to look out for in case of resealing the floor. If you want to skip the hassle of cleaning the floor you can easily re-seal on top of the previous sealer only after cleaning the floor thoroughly with pressure water wash. But the trick is that you can only use the type of previous sealer you used. This means you can only use water based sealer on top on a concrete previously sealed with water sealer and only use solvent based sealer on top of previously solvent sealed concrete. If you decide to use the opposite type then you will have to remove the previous one and then lay down the new one. Related Questions:Is there any caution we need to look out for before beginning?
Once you have laid down the stripper solution and started to incorporate it into the floor with a rotary scrubber, the floor will start to get really slippery. Make sure you wear appropriate shoes like rain boots and maintain your balance on the floor. Why is it necessary to scoop out all the stripper-sealer gel? It may seem like a hard job, but it is crucial you clean out every bit of the gel as it is a hazard to the plant life and very destructive if left in the garden. Is re-sealing the floor important? Yes. As concrete is porous it will not do well in an outdoor environment. Sealing it protects it from toxins, snow, and the UV rays of the sun. You can seal with the two types of sealer mentioned earlier or even with acrylic–resin sealers, epoxies and urethanes. Do you have to apply sealer to wet floor? No. Even though it is crucial to keep the floor wet when stripping off the sealer, once you have taken it all out and pressure washed it, you will let the floors dry completely before putting new sealer on. You also have to make sure to lay down very thin layer of the new sealer as thinner the better. Sometimes the best solution is to hire a reliable concrete contractor for your Concrete projects. If you are searching for stamped concrete contractors near me in the Syracuse area, call us today at (315) 201-5795 for a free consultation and estimate. What to look for in a Concrete ContractorHave you been looking forward to a home renovation for quite some time now but have no idea how to hire a trustworthy and efficient concrete contractor who will get the job done in the best possible manner? Changing the interior or exterior of your house or office is a big step which is exactly why people face so much stress and difficulty over it and their mind is in shambles as to how they can best tackle the renovation or getting something built from scratch. Today, I will give you some good advice and tricks which will ease the whole process of hiring a concrete contractor for you and by the end you will know what to look for in a contractor and how to hire them. Essential Steps:
Now, with the basics out of the way, we will further get into some details regarding the contractors and their work. Internet has made everything so much easier for us and if we are dedicated enough we should put in the time to get as much as information about them as possible. Furthermore, we will also talk about why we need some of the things I mentioned earlier. Renovations and design are things that require a lot of planning beforehand if you want everything done right and on time. And getting the right concrete contractor is the only way you will be able to oversee it all. Getting the knowledge:With the technology we have now, there shouldn’t be any problem for us to contact the previous customers of the contractor and ask them about their work ethic. Once you have made that phone call, you can go a step ahead and ask them for a visit at the place they’ve had work done in. Some people may find this going a little overboard but if the work is as solid as building a retaining structure and building a foundation on it or getting repairing done to different parts of the house. Once you visit the places you can then see for yourself how the building or repairs are withstanding temperature, weather and other climate changes. You can also ask the contractor himself for references and see if he willingly provides you with them. Signing the ContractA contract should include a number of things including:
Bidding AmountsThis is another step you can take for reassurance. As I have already mentioned that try to contact a number of contractors and get their rates. Obviously people with low budget will not provide you with the best materials but that’s your choice to make. With concrete work it is better to invest in the good materials then to have to re-do the whole thing again or suffer a malfunction. Variety of DesignsA good concrete contractor will themselves provide you with a lot of options and designs and will also give you a walkthrough of how they will reach the other end. On the other hand he should also be able to bring your own vision to life and also enhance it in a way.t. Related QuestionsIs there a time estimate for how quick the job should be done?
Usually big projects like walls or counters or a commercial walkway take around two weeks to finish. However, small projects like a driveway or small repairs around the house take only 2-3 days. Will I have to make a contract on my own or will the contractor provide one? A professional concrete contractor will provide you with a contract themselves with all their rights and duties with a column for all you want to add to it. How much down payment is required? Depending on the contractor, 10% down payment is usually needed in the start while the rest can be given at the end or halfway when you are satisfied with the work. Is there any reinforcement required? Yes. A material known as rebar which are steel rods are used to reinforce. You can ask the contractor whether he will be putting rebar in to strengthen the concrete. They will then justify the need for it or not. How Long Do Epoxy Floors Last in GarageAre you thinking of getting epoxy flooring done in your garage and need some basic statistics for how long they will last and is it worth getting them done. Garage is the place where you keep all the heavy weighing stuff as well as your car. You need a floor plan which is durable enough to not cave under pressure and is sustainable. Many people consider stamped concrete a good option but even that can crack as it is a porous substance and without a good sealer it will get stained and overall not make a suitable flooring for your garage. Installing epoxy floors in a garage is a trend that has really surfaced in the past decade and people have started to get them done because of their high life expectancy. But what actually is the durability of an epoxy floor and how long they last? This is the question I will answer today. Essential Steps:
Gradient of MaterialsEpoxy is available in a few different types depending on the coating they offer. Some are one part epoxy which are generally the ones you get in a box and the flake you get with it is only one pound. These epoxy coating can be done quickly and are generally hassle free but they are more like a paint so be sure to figure out that it’s what you want. For more solid flooring use the two part epoxy where you have to mix the resin with the hardener and you can also get them in big boxes from industrial stores. Now if you are looking for some really solid and industrial level epoxy then that is 100% solid and that’s the one which lasts 15 to 20 years even after excessive wear and tear. The previous two we talked about are around 50 to 55% solid which makes them softer with less density and hence last less than the 100% solid one. Preparation of the Floor:The concrete floor that you have to put epoxy down on should also be specifically prepared otherwise it will affect the longevity of the floor. The concrete needs to be profiled in a good manner so that the epoxy is smooth and even. Another very important step is to make sure that the floor is not wet from any angle as it may prevent the epoxy from sticking to the floor and ruin all the material you’ve spent so much money on. Even if it does stick it will crack and deteriorate extremely rapidly and cancel out all the work. Contractors and Installers:Epoxy should only be handled by professional contractors and installers and you should hire such people only to do your job. Epoxy is not the most perfect flooring especially when in the wrong hands hence get it done only from professionals. Substrate Material:Substrate means the floor which epoxy would be put on. If epoxy is not compatible with the substrate, it will crack. For example you cannot put epoxy on wood or even metal which has less tensile strength than the epoxy. Related Questions:Is there any kind of primer needed?Yes it is crucial that you use a primer as it helps seal the pores in the concrete and penetrate them. It helps adhesion of the epoxy to the concrete. How are epoxy floors sensitive to sunlight?Epoxy should be done in indoor areas or places where there is very less exposure of sunlight as epoxy is sensitive to UV rays. Sunlight causes binder to be exposed to chalk and also turns it yellow fast. As a result you will need to replace the floors more quickly than the areas where there is no sun. How long should the warranty be for?To judge the quality of the epoxy, it usually takes around 4 months hence the warranty should be of at least 12 months. If there is any deterioration it will happen in these months. Some companies even offer longer warranties which show their dedication to quality. Does humidity affect epoxy?Epoxy products do not bond well where there is humidity especially the solvent based epoxies. There shouldn’t be humidity rising from the floor and also there shouldn’t be any pipes or taps dripping.
If you are searching for epoxy flooring near me in the Syracuse NY area, call Syracuse Concrete today for at (315) 201-5795 a free estimate! |
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