
How To: Resurface a Concrete Driveway.
- STEP 1: Clean your concrete driveway and patch as needed. Before applying QUIKRETE® Concrete Resurfacer, prepare the old concrete surface so that the ...
- STEP 2: Mix your concrete resurfacer to a syrup consistency.
- STEP 3: Spread the concrete resurfacer over small sections of the driveway, and work quickly.
- STEP 4: Wait six hours after you’ve resurfaced a concrete driveway before walking on it and 24 hours before driving over it.
Full Answer
Should you resurface or replace your concrete driveway?
Should You Resurface or Replace Your Concrete Driveway? Get a Fast Free Quote - or call us today (636) 256-6733. A+ BBB Accredited. Chamber of Commerce. Video Testimonials. view more.
What are my options for repairing a concrete driveway?
Repairing a couple of cracks is much more affordable than pouring a new driveway, and a cracked bulk of concrete in front of your home can be a real eyesore. Are you planning to sell your home ...
Should I replace or resurface my driveway?
When driveways start to lose their luster or are nearing the end of their lifespan, a lot of owners will consider the option of having their driveway resurfaced to cut costs. There are some cases when a good resurfacing job will do the trick. But in some other cases, you’ll have no choice but to have the whole driveway redone.
When to repair or replace your driveway?
Your concrete driveway may be damaged if:
- There are cracks, splits, or breaks
- Your driveway isn’t clearing water or draining properly
- The seal or finish is corroded or worn away
- The base/foundation is unstable
- It is “too old” or beyond its lifespan

Can you resurface an existing concrete driveway?
If sprucing up your concrete driveway is on your list of home improvement projects, consider resurfacing. Resurfacing is a great way to make your existing concrete surface look brand new. You can apply a coating directly to your concrete surface without having to rip anything out—saving time, hassle, and money.
Is it worth it to resurface concrete driveway?
Enhances your driveway's appearance: one of the best values of concrete driveway resurfacing is it improves your driveway's appearance. The new layer gives your driveway a fresh look after years of fading and cracking. Extends its lifespan: if you care for your driveway correctly, it should last for up to thirty years.
What is the best way to resurface a concrete driveway?
1:584:28How to Resurface Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipResurfacer. Then begin to add the powder to the water while mixing mix for about five minutes untilMoreResurfacer. Then begin to add the powder to the water while mixing mix for about five minutes until a lump free pourable consistency is achieved.
Is resurfacing concrete a good idea?
But when the problem is just superficial cracking, discoloring, or minor chipping or spalling, resurfacing is a very good option. It's a project that just about anyone can tackle, and it's a lot more affordable than replacing the concrete slab.
Can you pour concrete over old concrete?
You can put new concrete over old concrete. However, unresolved issues with your old concrete, such as cracks or frost heaves, will carry over to your new concrete if not taken care of. In addition, you must pour it at least 2 inches thick.
Is it better to resurface or replace concrete?
Again, if the answer is yes, replacement is the best option. If it's merely a worn or chipped surface, commonly referred to as delamination, then repair is a viable option.” Concrete will eventually wear out, adds Layne. “Over time, the elements will cause the concrete to break down.
What is the best concrete overlay?
Although the overlay that you choose is certainly important, it is even more important that the appropriate product is used. Something like SunStone, Classic Texture, or Tuscan are all excellent products for concrete overlays.
How long does quikrete concrete resurfacer last?
This new layer is specially made to adhere to the old concrete. It's extremely durable while being relatively thin and can last 10-20+ years if properly installed by a Pro and cared for. So yes it can last. Concrete resurfacing provides a like new finish at an affordable price.
How long does concrete overlay last?
A concrete overlay takes time to apply and can be expensive, so it is vital to know a typical concrete overlay lifespan and the factors that impact how long it lasts. Concrete overlays typically last 10-15 years but can last up to 25+ years if well-applied and maintained.
Can you skim coat a concrete driveway?
If your driveway has excessive chips that detract from the overall beauty of your front yard, skim coating it will significantly improve the appearance. Pouring a thin, new layer of concrete over the old surface will smooth out any chips or pits and give you the opportunity to add color.
Can you resurface over cracked concrete?
1:022:58How to Repair Cracks and Resurface Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAs I use to fill the crack. Will just be mixing it a little differently to fill a crack like this weMoreAs I use to fill the crack. Will just be mixing it a little differently to fill a crack like this we mixed it a little thicker. So that I could apply it with the steel trowel.
Is resurfaced concrete slippery?
The resurfacing material is then poured over the area and evenly spread to create a smooth and even finish. After the new concrete dries it will leave a smooth and beautiful new floor. Although your new driveway or garage floor will now be smooth, this may make them slippery if wet.
How long does quikrete resurfacer last?
This new layer is specially made to adhere to the old concrete. It's extremely durable while being relatively thin and can last 10-20+ years if properly installed by a Pro and cared for. So yes it can last. Concrete resurfacing provides a like new finish at an affordable price.
How long should a concrete driveway last?
25 to 30 yearsThe average life of your concrete driveway will depend on installation methods, environmental conditions and temperatures. However, you can expect your surface to last anywhere from 25 to 30 years with proper care. The key to prolonging the life of your investment is to pay attention to wear and tear each season.
Can you skim coat a concrete driveway?
If your driveway has excessive chips that detract from the overall beauty of your front yard, skim coating it will significantly improve the appearance. Pouring a thin, new layer of concrete over the old surface will smooth out any chips or pits and give you the opportunity to add color.
How do you fix a crumbling concrete driveway?
1:084:15Extreme How To - Patching and Repairing Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBy design vinyl concrete patcher is a stiff mix. It's best to keep the trowel clean and dry whileMoreBy design vinyl concrete patcher is a stiff mix. It's best to keep the trowel clean and dry while applying the mix. This prevents the mix from curing on the tools.
How long does it take to resurface a driveway?
From start to finish, the whole process takes no longer than 48 hours. This doesn’t include the preparations, although these won’t take you more than a few hours either.
How do I apply concrete resurfacer?
The easiest way to apply the concrete resurfacer is to pour a small amount on the surface (as I said: no more than 144 square feet (13. 38 square meters) at a time) and then start immediately spreading it evenly with the (light) long-handled squeegee. However, a trowel or brush is an option if you don’t have a squeegee.
How many square feet does a concrete resurfacer cover?
Be mindful that you will have to apply two or sometimes three resurfacing layers to finish the job. One bag will cover 15 to 90 square feet (1.39 to 8.36 square meters), typically.
What are the benefits of resurfacing a driveway?
Aside from the costs and relative simplicity, there are a few other benefits of resurfacing to consider, such as: It will enhance the appearance of your driveway: the new layer will give your driveway a brand-new look.
What color is resurfaced concrete?
Gray is the only color that resurfacers are available in. However, you can use a coloring agent made explicitly for concrete products to offer a different color. Remember that if you are only resurfacing a larger slab section, it is not always easy to match colors.
Why do people use concrete for driveways?
A reason why many people choose concrete as their driveway surface material is that it has high durability. However, even concrete will eventually show wear and tear signs, thanks to exposure to the elements and high foot and vehicle traffic. Instead of stripping it and starting all over, it can be easier and cheaper to resurface your driveway ...
How much does a 40 lb resurfacer cost?
You will need several 40-pound (18.14-kg) bags of resurfacer, which sell for about $25 to $55 a bag. If you’re buying pails, you can count on closer to $70 per 50-pound (22.68-kg) pail.
How to smooth out cracks in a concrete floor?
Make the mixture a thick consistency, and pour in on the cracks. Use a flat edge trowel to force the mixture deep into the cracks. Then smooth out the surface. After allowing the material to dry overnight, a much thinner batch of resurfacer is mixed up.
Why does my concrete crack?
These can be caused by everything from tree roots and movement of the soil to freezing and thawing cycles in the winter. Rather than breaking up the slab and pouring a new one, you might want to consider repairing it using Quikrete Concrete Resurfacer.
How can I make my concrete driveway look new again?
If sprucing up your concrete driveway is on your list of home improvement projects, consider resurfacing. Resurfacing is a great way to make your existing concrete surface look brand new. You can apply a coating directly to your concrete surface without having to rip anything out—saving time, hassle, and money.
How do you resurface a concrete driveway?
Concrete driveway resurfacing (also called concrete driveway refinishing) is an involved process that requires the right tools and products. Here is a general overview.
Can I resurface my concrete driveway myself?
While it’s possible to resurface your concrete driveway yourself, it’s not a simple DIY to take lightly. Proper application is a must. If your coating isn’t applied correctly, you’ll have issues such as chipping or bubbling. Here are just a few of the common issues that arise during driveway resurfacing:
Can you resurface a damaged driveway?
You should never try to resurface a severely damaged driveway. A concrete coating will not last on a surface that isn’t viable. If your existing concrete slab has very large cracks, deep cracks, or has areas that are severely uneven you may need to have it demolished and start from scratch.
How much does it cost to resurface a concrete driveway?
The average cost of a concrete driveway overlay ranges from about $3 to $20 per square foot, but that can vary depending on several things such as:
What can you coat a concrete driveway with?
For a high-traffic area that needs to withstand the weight of vehicles and possibly a lot of foot traffic, it’s important to select a coating that creates a durable layer of protection. Simultaneously, homeowners want a coating that is easy to clean and beautiful.
Is epoxy good for driveways?
If you’re considering an epoxy driveway, it’s probably because you’ve heard about their durability. While epoxy floors are great for indoor spaces such as garages, they are less desirable for driveways for several reasons, such as:
How To Repair and Resurface a Cracked Concrete Driveway
Nearly all driveways will develop cracks at some time or other. The causes can be numerous. One is tree roots growing beneath the pad and another is the freeze-thaw cycle which can expand and contract concrete 9%. Instead of having to break up and pour a brand new slab, why not just repair the cracks with a little Sani-Tred.
Preparing Concrete
Preparation to remove all the mold, mildew, and ground in dirt is the single most important factor in preparing concrete. To prepare concrete acid etching and pressure watching is the best option. This is accomplished by mixing “Muratic Acid” and water.
How To Acid Etch Concrete
Muratic Acid is typically packaged at a 30% dilution; you want to dilute it down to a 10% by diluting 3 parts water to one part acid. You’ll need a gallon of diluted acid for every 200 square feet. Pour acid carefully in to water to avoid splashing, and use appropriate safety equipment.
Crack Repair and Resurfacing Concrete Driveways
Take extra pains to clean out all the cracks and crevices you may see, no matter how small or thin. You want your concrete patching to have a good surface to adhere to.
The Sani-Tred Solution
Looking for a garage floor or driveway coating that will keep your concrete from ever cracking again? Sounds to good to be true? Sani-Tred permanently bonds with concrete at a molecular level, and provides 590% elongation. It’s the only product of it’s kind with a lifetime guarantee.
Can you repair cracks in concrete driveway?
The next thing you will need to do before resurfacing your driveway repair the broken slabs of cement. Repairing the cracks isn't too difficult, but it is necessary to get a smooth and professional finish when you resurface your concrete. You can get an epoxy product that is meant for concrete repair!
Do you need to seal concrete after resurfacing?
After you finish the resurfacing process, you have one more vital step to take! You need to seal your concrete. Not only will this keep your driveway in great shape for longer, but it will also protect it from the elements and will make it easy to clean!
Why do you need to resurface a concrete driveway?
However, if it’s younger than that, here are the benefits of resurfacing: Enhances your driveway’s appearance: one of the best values of concrete driveway resurfacing is it improves your driveway’s appearance.
How old should a concrete driveway be before resurfacing?
Are you working with a concrete driveway that’s between twenty to twenty-five years or older, you’ll benefit from a replacement. The main reason is you’re likely dealing with a lot of old patches and a previous resurfacing.
What does it mean when a driveway crack is less than a quarter of an inch wide?
If you see driveway cracks that are less than a quarter of an inch wide, then that means there isn’t any indication of worse damage occurring to the driveway’s surface. Therefore, a filler will complete this repair. However, if you see larger cracks, that often signals a more significant issue is happening.
Why is my driveway sinking?
That could be a sign of improper installation. Your driveway may also be experiencing damages due to excessive exposure to sun and moisture.
Why use concrete for driveway?
When using concrete as the material for your driveway, you expect it to be sturdy and long-lasting. The main reason is that, in addition to being affordable, it’s known for its durability and versatility. Not only can you customize concrete to achieve the look you want, but you can count on that look lasting for years.
Does concrete need maintenance?
Many homeowners believe a concrete driveway doesn’t need maintenance and will hold up for decades. However, because of its exposure to the elements and heavy use, that isn’t the truth. There are a variety of maintenance steps that must occur throughout a driveway’s lifespan to ensure longevity. Concrete is a porous material, which means, ...
How long does it take for a concrete driveway to cure?
No waiting up to 30 days for a new concrete driveway to cure and harden. A beautiful, new driveway for far less cost than demolition and replacement. Concrete Craft can have your ugly driveway repaired, restored, or resurfaced in a matter of days so you can get on with the more important things in life. And, we won’t damage your yard ...
What is concrete overlay?
Concrete overlays can be stained, stamped, and hand-carved in faux finishes like flagstone, cobblestone, Ashlar slate, and Roman slate for the exquisite look of real stone. Real stone molds and hand-applied stain colors result in finishes that look natural and authentic.
How to contact Concrete Craft?
As a local business owner in your community, we care about your complete satisfaction. Call 866-813-3699 today or go online to www.concretecraft.com to find the Concrete Craft location nearest you and request a FREE consultation. You can trust Concrete Craft to deliver on the promise of the driveway of your dreams.
What is decorative concrete overlay?
If your driveway needs a whole new look, a decorative concrete overlay will create a new finish that covers minor surface damage like cracks, imperfections and discoloration. The overlay creates a durable finish and long-lasting bond with the original concrete that will not chip, crack or peel. Concrete overlays can be stained, stamped, and hand-carved in faux finishes like flagstone, cobblestone, Ashlar slate, and Roman slate for the exquisite look of real stone.
