Concrete Overlay,
Self-Leveling Overlays
The Aesthetic, Cost-Efficient Alternative. In situations where a concrete slab has cracked, spalled or aged, cementitious overlayments can provide a solution, when compared to the time-consuming and costly alternative of ripping out the hard slab and pouring new concrete.
by Bruce Hackett
by now be well aware of the recent spike in popularity of decorative concrete in a variety of applications. Concrete remains one of the most durable, functional, reliable building materials available, but there's no getting around the fact that when you mix Portland cement, sand and water, the initial result is not particularly attractive. Through the use of integral colors, dry-shake color hardeners and similar products, fresh concrete need no longer be gray, monotone and drab looking.
In situations where a concrete slab has cracked, spalled or aged, cementitious overlayments can provide a solution, when compared to the time-consuming and costly alternative of ripping out the hard slab and pouring new concrete. Numerous manufacturers offer products and systems that fall under the category of trowelable, stampable overlayments, but this article will focus solely on self-leveling, polymer-modified overlays.
Self-leveling overlays, flowable, polymer-modified cementitious toppings that have the huge advantage of setting within a matter of hours. They are a new options for contractors that appeared on the market within the last five or six years. Designed exclusively for use in interior applications, self-leveling overlays offer tremendous benefits that explain the widespread use in many casinos, hotels, restaurants, shopping malls, resorts, theme parks, office buildings, and even residences across the country.
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