A Cementitious Overlay is a thin colored concrete cement-based product applied over existing concrete for repair or decorative reasons. Overlays can be applied as thin as a feather finish or, in most cases, up to 3/4″ depending on the desired finish.
In this article we will cover:
- What are cementitious overlays?
- Polymer modified cementitious overlays
- Acrylic cement overlays
- Cement overlay cost
- Cement overlay products
- Cementitious overlay contractors
What are cementitious overlays?
Similar to applying a new coat of paint on a peeling fence post, cementitious overlays add layers of material over existing concrete surfaces. The material is also referred to as a self-leveling concrete overlay. These overlays are applied for both aesthetic and refurbishing purposes, due to the flexibility of the material, which can be applied in any thickness. At a millimeter, cementitious overlays provide a newly sealed, smooth surface without adding additional thickness. If the overlay is applied at the thicker range, closer to ¾ inch, it offers even more possibilities.
The cementitious overlay materials adhere to a number of substrates, and it is extremely durable, which makes it a useful and cost-effective method of repairing concrete surfaces. Additionally, the overlay can be colored to match any design, textured to create a more interesting surface, or stamped to create stunning and personalized designs. These applications elevate the overlays beyond a mere repair technique and into the realm of functional art.
Polymer modified cementitious overlays
Polymer-modified cementitious overlays differ from similar methods of functional or aesthetic concrete finishes in that the overlay material is modified with polymer. The polymer creates a fluid, spreadable surface that is naturally leveling, which creates a smooth and even finish, regardless of the number of layers applied.
Acrylic cement overlays
When acrylic is used as a mixing compound in cementitious overlays, rather than polymer, the result is a durable, UV-resistant surface that can mimic the look of a wide variety of other materials, such as tile, stone, or even wood. The acrylic also adds flexibility to the concrete, which can help the substrate surface resist cracking, which makes acrylic cement overlays a popular choice for areas with high traffic. Lastly, acrylic cement overlays are popular for pool decks due to their resistance to cracking, peeling, and fading, as well as the slight temperature-cooling effect from the acrylic mixture.
Cement overlay cost
Overlays are a much more affordable resurfacing option than the process of demolishing and replacing an entire concrete slab. The cementitious material is applied in thin layers of overlay, which gives even more flexibility within a budget.
For thinly-applied, simple overlays, projects cost between $3 and $10 per square foot. Larger surface areas generally cost less per square foot, because most of the labor cost is used for the set-up and preparation process. Once preparation is completed, the actual overlay is completed relatively quickly.
Intricate designs or thicker overlays can cost between $10 and $20 dollars per square foot; and even the most high-end designs and materials will typically cost under $30 per square foot. The median cost to resurface a standard 38- by 16-foot residential driveway with a cementitious overlay is around $2,500.
Because cementitious overlays can quickly and effectively repair concrete surfaces, it is important to contact a respected and trustworthy contractor to make necessary repairs as soon as signs of decay are present. If the concrete continues to corrode until it crumbles, more significant and costly replacements will likely be necessary.
Cement overlay products
The versatility of this material means it can be used in a wide variety of applications. In interior settings, the overlays can be polished for decorative and sleek spaces in offices, showrooms, or minimalist residential lofts. In exterior settings, the cementitious overlays can revitalize cracked and decaying sidewalks, pathways, and driveways. Finally, its sleek surface is widely used to repair concrete in commercial settings, such as shopping malls, restaurants, warehouses, or other retail spaces where durability and function are of utmost importance.
Even though these overlays were designed to use on concrete surfaces, they can also be applied to stucco, drywall, brick, ceramic, porcelain, or nearly any other building material; although the durability and lifespan may fluctuate when compared to their original intended use.
There is a different, specific cement overlay product for each of these different use cases, so it is important to work with a specialized contractor to ensure the correct material is being mixed and applied for the correct purpose.
Cementitious overlay contractors
The most durable and appealing concrete overlays are applied accurately, carefully, efficiently, and under budget. Choosing the right professional can be challenging, but it is an essential step for ensuring the project is completed to specification. To find a local contractor in your areas that specializes in cement overlays, search Angi, HomeAdvisor, or Houzz. If you are in the South Florida area and are searching for a contractor specifically to help with the installation or repair of a commercial amenity deck using cement overlays, please reach out to us at Bengoa Construction for a quote. From a simple resurfacing repair job to a new poolside focal point to captivate your guests, we can help!
