Concrete overlays, thin coats of fine concrete, are designed to add a new and refreshing look to a substrate. They cover dull, drab surfaces that are otherwise poor candidates for decorative concrete staining and coloring. Applying an overlay provides a new look or a fresh, smooth surface that will deliver clean, consistent color and appeal. Overlays can also make it unnecessary to tear out an existing slab, saving costs and headaches.

Traditionally, overlays were cement-based, but these days, many overlay systems incorporate polymer resins. "Polymer-modified overlays" often offer better performance and wear resistance than cement-based overlays.