How is Decorative Concrete Overlaying performed?

Concrete Overlays fall into different categories but share steps in the evolution of the final product. The installation time runs from 2 - 7 days depending on the size of the area, the selected style and complexity of the pattern. 

All overlays receive the first two steps

Preparation
The surface is pressure washed or cleaned thoroughly. The way we do this, either by pressure washing or other methods depend on whether  the application is inside or outside your home. 

A mild Acid bath is done and then neutralized. This opens the pores of the concrete and prepares it to bond with the next application. 

Base (skim) Coat.
This step is common to all overlay applications. 

Any cracks in the surface are treated if needed.
A Skim/Base or Bond coat is applied to the surface and allowed to dry. 

The steps below are by style. Depending on the complexity of your desired surface, modifications may be made.

Texture Applications                                    
There are several styles that fit this category (a Knock-Down finish is in this category).

* Basic Spray Texture would have an additional Base Coat added before the Top Coat is Sprayed on. The additional base coat is needed to give strength to the final product. After the second Base Coat, the Top Coat is sprayed over a Stencil, Tape or a Seamless pattern. 
* Flagstone coatings also receive two Base Coats for the same reason above. The next step is to apply a 1/2" Nylon Tape to the surface to mark off the "rocks/stones".
* The Flagstone pattern is then coated with the Top Coat and after a dry time, misted with additional colors.
* The tape is then pulled off to reveal the pattern and the surface is then sealed.
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Faux Slate/Tile Applications
There are other variations of this style that can create a personalized tile unique to your home.

* The Top Coat material is mixed and applied with a rounded steel trowel to achieve a look that resembles a light Slate Texture or a swirl-type texture found on some tiles. 
* After drying overnight, the desired pattern is marked and scored. 
* Stain is applied to the surface in several coats to achieve the desired color, tint and tone. 
* After an overnight dry, the surface is sealed. 

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Micro Finish Overlay
The most common use of Micro-Finish is to overlay a slab that would not react well to acid stain. The final result is a surface that actually achieves a higher degree of mottling and tone than concrete. 

* A Micro-Finish job will get a second Base Coat. 
* Two applications of Micro-Finish are applied with a rounded steel trowel. This process fills in the small voids in the surface and results in a smooth even surface.
* If necessary the floor is sanded to further smooth the surface and remove any trowel marks.
* The pattern is scored and the surface is stained in the desired color. After the stain works for about 4 hours, it is neutralized and rinsed.
* Once the surface is dry it is sealed. 

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Sealer Options
There are several sealers available and the choice of sealer should be determined by environment and use. Some of the overlay styles/staining required longer dry times than others. Most surfaces can be sealed the day after staining.

* Acrylic. This is the Primary sealer for Exterior applications. UV inhibiting sealer. It penetrates the surface and prevents mold and mildew from getting a foot-hold on the surface.
 
* Epoxy: This is the best sealer for Interior use. It cures up to over 14,000 PSI and is odorless. It can be applied clear or in 10 other colors offered. It is best for areas where high wear is anticipated.

Note: An Exterior overlay surface should be re-sealed every 1 to 2 years depending on exposure and use. Slip-Resistant additives are also available upon request.

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