Key Takeaways
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Concrete resurfacing is one of the most cost-effective methods available for restoring your surfaces to like-new condition. It costs less and takes less time than a full replacement.
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Selecting the proper resurfacing material and application method is the key to providing a long-lasting appearance. This is particularly critical in regions that are on the frontlines of unprecedented climate impacts.
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Whether you choose a DIY project or hire expert contractors, proper surface preparation and professional installation are critical steps that ensure the longevity and quality of your resurfaced concrete.
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Resurfacing allows for a wide range of creative design options, including colors, textures, and patterns, which can boost curb appeal and property value.
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Maintenance, including regular cleaning and sealing, is necessary to maximize the lifespan of your resurfaced concrete and address minor issues before they escalate.
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As with any construction project, use only licensed, insured, reputable local contractors. Check out their past work to make sure you receive top-quality results on your concrete resurfacing job.
Concrete resurfacing means having tired, worn, or cracked concrete repaired with a fresh new surface — right in your hometown. I’ve been lucky enough to work with truly great teams. Their skillful touches breathe new life into worn-out driveways, patios and garage floors, leaving them looking smooth and brilliant.
It’s just amazing to have this transformation where you just see those old chips and stains disappear, and the whole area just looks brand new. My method relies on heavy-duty, slick-free surfaces that resist car zips, rainy drips, and sunny dips without curling up.
It’s only with fast, local service that you get to avoid waiting weeks with uneven sidewalks or cracked floors. You choose from a rainbow of colors and elegant, clean finishes that complement your personal taste and surroundings.
I show you how to achieve sustainable results that reduce the need for costly repairs. Here’s an undefeated rundown of the process and why it’s worth it when you concrete resurfacing near me.
What Exactly is Concrete Resurfacing?
Concrete resurfacing is the process of renewing old or damaged concrete. You receive a pristine surface without the hassle of demolishing the existing slab. This approach essentially puts a pretty layer on top.
It usually includes a mixture of cement, polymer, and bonding agents to hide imperfections while improving traction and aesthetic appeal. Using this methodology, you preserve the solid foundation you already have and improve the aesthetics and performance of the surface up top.
For you, resurfacing equals reduced mess, waste, and time on your project. With most driveways, patios, and walkways in your neighborhood, this approach can give them a quick rejuvenation.
1. Defining This Concrete Makeover
You simply begin by preparing the old surface, re-establishing any cracks that are more than a quarter inch. To prepare surfaces for the new layer, contractors typically utilize power washers, grinders or shot blasters.
Once repaired, a bonding agent gets laid. After that, choose your overlay—stamped overlays for pretty patterns, epoxy for high gloss, or pebble coatings for a more natural, textured look.
Unlike patch jobs, resurfacing is all-inclusive, renewing even the most beat-up concrete. You can choose decorative finishes such as cool deck for pool surrounds or metallic pigments for a modern garage appearance.
2. The Main Goal: Renew, Don’t Replace
The true purpose is to maximize the longevity of your slab. You save money because you’re avoiding demo and haul-away. Resurfacing is greener all around, too.
It minimizes waste because you work with what’s there. Over time, most of these projects will last ten years or more, with some extending to twenty-five years in the right conditions.
The project is done very quickly, so life returns to normal in two or three days.
3. Ideal Situations for Resurfacing
Resurfacing is ideal for slabs with minor cracking or surface deterioration. That’s what makes it so perfect for both residential and commercial spaces.
Typical applications include driveways, walkways, pool decks, and patios. If you need to repair stains, small chips or just a faded surface quickly, resurfacing is the solution.
4. When Full Replacement is Smarter
You will require new concrete if the slab is shifting, if you have large cracks or severe freeze-thaw deterioration. For one, resurfacing can’t address deep structural issues.
In those situations, a complete replacement protects your property for decades to come.
5. Common Resurfacing Materials Overview
Examples of common concrete resurfacer include polymer-modified overlays, stamped concrete, epoxy coatings, and pebble finishes. Each method has its benefits.
Epoxy provides a durable, high-shine finish that’s ideal for garages. Textured or stamped overlays can create beautiful patterns and styles, perfect for a new patio.
Choosing the correct resurfacing material will yield an attractive, durable solution.
6. Key Differences from Simple Repairs
In contrast to patching, resurfacing addresses all of the surface at once, rather than just areas. We don’t want you to look like a collage of different aesthetics; you deserve an entire aesthetic upgrade.
Resurfacing leaves you with a clean looking, smoother and more uniform finish as well as covers years of imperfections and wear.
Why Resurface Instead of Full Replacement?
There’s a simple, effective alternative: resurfacing existing concrete. It’s affordable and effortlessly integrated into your day-to-day schedule. It’s much more than filling in a few cracks. It’s not just about money, time saved, and environmental stewardship though.
Significant Cost Savings Upfront
Resurfacing is far less expensive than tearing out and replacing new slabs. Resurfacing typically costs $3 to $7 per square foot. Meanwhile, full replacement can escalate to $8 to $15 per square foot, even exceeding that on challenging projects.
Alternatively, if your driveway only needs a new look, you save a ton of money up front by leaving more cash in your pocket. Some even offer customized payment plans, taking the hassle out of getting started.
With proper maintenance, a quality resurfacing project can serve the public for 30 years or more. With resurfacing, you’re not just saving money today—you’re saving that money for many years!
Faster Project Completion Times
The project is complicated and sometimes the work moves very quickly. A typical resurfacing job is done in under 2 days. Full replacement takes forever, often 5 days or more.
You eliminate the headache of invasive digging and disruptive hauling. Your new driveway or patio will be ready to use in no time!
Less Mess and Disruption
Resurfacing is a tidy solution. There’s more dust, more debris, and a greater need for large machinery and heavy dump trucks.
Your yard is largely undisturbed and you’re able to enjoy your property in a shorter timeframe.
Environmentally Friendlier Option
You protect the planet, as well. Resurfacing takes what you already have and implements it, thereby reducing landfill waste and lowering CO₂ emissions.
Many resurfacing mixes utilize environmentally conscious materials containing minimal VOCs, so this option is even cleaner.
Instantly Boost Curb Appeal
Your pavement reaps the rewards. It provides a whole new life. From imprinted designs to exciting hues and textures, you’ll be amazed by how a rejuvenated driveway can become a focal point of your home.
Property value and curb appeal increase for homes with fresh appearing drives or patios.
Explore Creative Resurfacing Designs
Concrete resurfacing offers a unique opportunity to create vibrant, permanent changes to your home’s aesthetic. With so many choices, you can create amazing new spaces that add beauty and style to driveways, patios, walkways, and pool decks. Our creative resurfacing designers in Tampa partner with residential clients who are tired of boring concrete and asphalt grays.
You’ll be able to stay true to your style and increase your curb appeal while keeping costs low.
Colors, Stains, and Dyes
Creative resurfacing designs are truly limited only by the designer’s imagination and available color palette. Warm earth tones, deep reds, cool grays, and vibrant blues all have an incredible power to define and elevate a space. Coloring compounds, stains, and dyes allow you to achieve a unique look on your floors.
They are absorbed into the concrete so the color goes all the way through, keeping the color vibrant. With minimal maintenance, these surfaces retain their aesthetic appeal for years. It takes a talented hand to ensure the quality finish will be uniform and durable.
Our experienced team treats the care of each project job like it’s our own.
Textures for Style and Safety
Texture offers you much more than aesthetic appeal. You may choose from smooth, broom, trowel, or exposed aggregate finishings. A rough, finished surface is critical to preventing slips, especially for pool decks and stairs.
Textures and creativity add the level of style that complements spaces, whether they be indoors or outdoors. Their primary purpose, of course, is to help blend in new work with old.
Stamped Concrete Patterns
Creative resurfacing designs with stamped concrete have been a clear winner for Tampa pool decks. Along with this comes designs that can be achieved such as brick, stone, and tile, or even wood looks while maintaining the durability of concrete.
The art rendering process we use ensures that the pattern remains crisp and clean. You end up with a newly resurfaced asset with minimal maintenance required to maintain its new appearance.
Modern Epoxy and Coating Looks
Second, epoxy coatings are tough enough to stand up to heavy-duty areas, such as residential garages or commercial showrooms. You have thousands of colors and finishes available from high gloss to low sheen.
Best of all, epoxy prevents surfaces from getting dirty and stained, making them very easy to maintain. That’s why our garage epoxy floors are guaranteed to last for decades.
Matching Designs to Your Home
Choose an appearance that complements your home’s aesthetic. Done well, a creative match increases a property’s value and curb appeal. Consider using edging, borders or concrete colors that will complement your yard.
Our artistic crew makes it simple to arrange the design to fit your distinct outdoor space.
Understand Concrete Resurfacing Costs
Understanding what makes up the cost of concrete resurfacing will allow you to prepare for a worry-free concrete improvement project. Typically, all projects start out with a minimum cost. After that, the cost can vary based on the size of your space, the finish you select, and the level of work needed for your surface.
You’ll start to notice this when you attempt to compare an easy driveway job to one that’s gonna have some stamped concrete or color stains. Never settle and always get separate quotes from different contractors. In this manner, you’re more likely to get a reasonable price and not get ripped off.
Setting a concrete budget at the beginning puts you in control of setting your priorities and focusing on what matters. Additionally, it guides your decision on where to spend limited dollars most effectively.
Typical Price Ranges Explained
On average, concrete resurfacing runs between $3 and $9 per sq.ft. A standard two-car garage, on the other hand, ranges from $1,600 to $5,800. Repairing minor fissures is the most inexpensive, typically around $250 to $800. More decorative or larger areas increases the cost.
Of course, materials and labor play their parts as well. If you happen to live in an area with higher wages or supply constraints, such as Palm Beach or Broward, those rates can be even higher. First, just the cost of getting the concrete delivered ranges from $400 to $4,500.
Resurfacing patios or sidewalks typically ranges from $3 to $7 per square foot.
Factors Driving Project Costs
The larger your project, the more impact price comes into play. Finally, besides the thickness, the extent of prep work required and the materials selected are key factors in cost. If your concrete is badly damaged, or if the jobsite is difficult to access, the cost increases.
Going with the best products up front is typically less expensive in the long run, as the cheaper mixes may not hold up as well.
Comparing Resurfacing vs. Replacement Budgets
Resurfacing almost always costs significantly less than the cost of tearing out and replacing new concrete. Full replacement requires significantly more labor, hauling fees, and new material. You don’t realize you have hidden costs in disposal or grading.
Resurfacing avoids all of that, providing a new appearance for a fraction of the cost.
Cost Considerations in Palm Beach/Broward
Out here, labor rates are more than 30 percent above the national average. Materials become difficult to source, prices go up. If you plan to resurface a patio or driveway, prepare to pay towards the top end of the average range.
Many localities have programs that provide rebates when you choose environmentally friendly materials, saving you some additional costs.
Lifespan of Resurfaced Concrete
Resurfaced concrete provides the high-quality, fresh appearance of new concrete, without the expense and hassle of a complete tear-out and replacement. If executed correctly, it could too easily last 10 years or longer. This makes it a great option for anyone wanting to repair an existing concrete driveway or patio.
Many choose this over new installs because most jobs hold up well for 8 to 15 years, sometimes reaching 15 if you care for them.
How Long Does Resurfacing Last?
The average carryover for resurfacing projects is 10 to 15 years at most. Even the type of overlay, whether polymer-modified or epoxy, can make a difference in the life span.
In environments that are heavily sun-exposed or rain-exposed you will notice the surface deteriorate at a much faster rate. Quality of the old concrete surface is king but good prep work matters.
If crews clean and prepare the concrete, repairing spreading cracks, and lay the overlay smooth, you get superior results. Inspect chips or color loss annually to identify issues early.
Florida Climate Impact (Palm Beach/Broward Focus)
Florida’s unique and extreme combination of hot, blazing sun, heavy tropical rain, and corrosive sea air is particularly hard on concrete. Humid days slow the curing process, and high heat can crack the surface if you don’t use the appropriate mix.
Choose overlays designed to withstand extreme heat and humidity. In Palm Beach, a pool deck with a UV-stable resurfacing product has weathered successfully for more than a decade.
It still reads wonderfully after four years of 24/7 sun and rain exposure.
Choosing Materials for Local Durability
Protection against weather damage is crucial. Always select overlays that have excellent resistance to weather related damage.
In the case of Florida, choose materials and products that are durable under extreme heat as well as extreme downpours. Acrylic or polymer-based resurfacing systems perform best in this application.
For patios, UV-resistant coatings prevent sun from fading beautiful colors or patterns. Our local pros are eager to help you discover the best products for your unique location.
What’s appropriate for a residential driveway may not be appropriate for a pool deck.
Extending Lifespan with Proper Care
With regular washings and periodic applications of new sealer, you can keep your new surface looking great for years to come. Sweep away accumulated dirt, rinse off any spills with warm water, and inspect for small chips.
Address cracks as soon as you notice them. For aesthetic purposes, homeowners tend to hose down their concrete walkways every week and reseal every two years to keep it fresh.
The Concrete Resurfacing Process
Concrete resurfacing provides you with an opportunity to upgrade damaged, old, or unsightly concrete without the expense and hassle of removal and replacement. This process includes everything from preparing the surface to applying the final seal. Experienced contractors will operate specialized equipment and follow each step in the process to ensure a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing, long-lasting finish.
This is where the Semco resurfacing system really makes a name for itself. Quick, durable and cost-effective. Because it’s a simple process, it works for any hard surface and it contributes to the government’s goal of leaving 40% of your old concrete intact. With concrete surface preparation, you avoid the grinding, sandblasting, and the unsafe use of chemical strippers. You save $4 to $10 per square foot on demo and haul-away.
Surface Preparation is Crucial
As with any application, surface preparation is Job 1. Crews begin the concrete resurfacing process by pressure-washing the road surface to remove any contaminants, like dirt and oil. The concrete surface is patched across cracks and chips. It’s an important step because all those nasty old stains and damage can prevent the new resurfacer from bonding.
Roughing the surface up—profiling—ensures the new overlay will have a firm hold. The Semco system does away with rigorous preps, such as grinding or sandblasting. With it, you get a healthier, faster project! For optimum results, ensure repairs are complete and surface is dry before proceeding.
Applying the Overlay Material
Once the surface is prepared, crews mix and place the overlay. Proper equipment is essential for a perfectly even, smooth coat. For the Semco solution, the overlay is applied with trowels or squeegees. This skin adheres to the existing concrete, filling in cracks and imperfections.
Proper even spreading helps to avoid any thin, weak areas. After application, it requires a significant amount of time to fully cure, typically a day or two, depending on ambient weather conditions.
Finishing Touches and Sealing
Once the overlay has dried, crews return to complete the surfacer application. This can include abrasive broom finishes, textures, or patterns. Follow that with a quality sealant. This layer seals out moisture and tough stains, helping ensure the new surface stays beautiful and durable.
Choose a sealant designed for your intended purpose—some are more effective for driveways, others for patios. Getting the finish just right increases curb appeal.
Typical Project Duration Locally
Additionally, nearly all resurfacing projects are finished in three to five days. Weather, size of the project and site access can adjust the schedule. Since there’s no demo with Semco’s system, in many instances their system enables fast turnarounds.
Creative Resurfacing Solutions operates with the latest technologies and equipment which not only speeds up the process but cleans up beautiful and professional. Anticipating the concrete resurfacing process helps prevent disruptions and return to business as usual as quickly as possible.
Select the Right Resurfacing Technique
Concrete resurfacing has a great selection of techniques, each suited for sophisticated requirements and appearances. When I work with homeowners, I pay close attention to the slab’s shape, age, and what you want for the final look.
First, repair deeper cracks or dips in the surface using PolyLevel foam injection. This will help make sure that all is flat, smooth, and stable. Once the perfect canvas is ground, you’re free to pick from a wide variety of overlay styles.
These can range from stamped concrete which looks like stone to pebble finishes to bright colored epoxy coats. Each technique provides powerful advantages. You’ll benefit from low-maintenance cleanliness and a brand new appearance that endures for two decades or more, with regular resealing every five to ten years.
Understanding Overlay Options
Overlays go over existing old slabs or new slabs. Textured stamped overlays can add aesthetic appeal, and river rock inlays harmonize with natural walking paths.
Cool deck finishes remain cooler under foot, ideal for swimming pool decks. Epoxy coatings, infused with color aggregates or gleaming metal flecks, swirl and swirl and swirl garage floors or basement digs.
Overlays bond well to all quality concrete and most surface contamination can be removed with a stiff bristle broom or mop. For each overlay you will find advantages.
These stamped overlays can give a high-end look, but they require the skills of pros. Pebble coatings do provide slip-resistance, but they tend to trap dirt and harbor algae. Epoxy is delightful, but should be left to experienced professionals for smooth, uniform applications.
Microtoppings for Smooth Finishes
Microtoppings are easy to apply. Microtoppings are thin products and lay down smooth.
They’re definitely my choice for a smooth, indoor finish or when you need to camouflage small imperfections. You can tint them to achieve custom colors.
They are most effective when applied over stable, level concrete. A paddle mixer and heavy-duty, corded drill combine the product super quickly.
The secret is a firm hand and maintaining moisture in the early cure. So allow it to cure one full day before foot traffic.
Spray-Down Systems Explained
Spray-down systems are ideal for larger areas, such as patios or driveways. The mix sprays out in thick, even coats, providing you with that textured, slip-resistant, Lip Stick feel.
It’s efficient—most jobs can be completed in one day. The system employs a manual hopper gun connected to a portable air compressor.
You’ll often see these kinds of surfaces near pools, where non-slippery surfaces and hot feet are a priority.
When Epoxy Coatings Are Best
Epoxy truly dazzles in garages, kitchens, and workshops. It provides superior stain and oil resistance and excellent resistance to foot traffic.
The appearance is sleek, with color options ranging from generic gray to metallic. Epoxy requires very clean preparation and a professional hand to ensure proper spread and cure.
Once applied it is ready for heavy traffic in about 24 hours.
Find Qualified Local Resurfacers
Having your concrete resurfacing project executed properly begins with selecting the right people for the job. So long as you have qualified concrete resurfacers on your project, you’ll achieve far more than just a smooth, fresh look. You enlist specialists who pick the ideal blend to accommodate your climate.
They deploy the right tools and have the expertise to seal cracks the right way so they stay sealed. A pro won’t just patch things up—they plan, prep, and follow steps that make the work last years, not months. Choose companies with a demonstrated, long-time presence in your city.
They’ve walked on sidewalks in the rain, driveways in the sun, and know which concrete mix won’t flake off or chip away come next winter. Reach out to your neighbors and see who they used. Monitor local online boards and check back with people to find out if they still enjoy that new path a year after installation.
Verify Licenses and Insurance
Request proof of insurance and confirm a contractor’s license. Licensed individuals comply with state or local regulations and typically demonstrate a greater level of work quality. Insurance takes care of things when they go south—if a tool breaks a window, for example, you have protection in place.
Do this before hiring them, request their license numbers and call or visit your state board’s website. Ensure that insurance is in place for both property damage and workers’ injury. You’ll sleep better at night knowing you won’t be the one left holding the bag for surprises.
Check Local Reputation and Reviews
Check websites with online reviews, local opinion forums, and ask your neighbors. Good contractors will have a proven track record of work, with references you can check. Don’t just look at the top stars, but what patterns emerge in the reviews.
A friend or neighbor’s word goes a long way—ask to see their completed project and how it’s performing down the road.
Essential Questions for Contractors
Inquire as to when projects will begin, how long they are projected to take, and what the overall cost will be. Ask which aggregate and finish they recommend and what their plan is to repair or replace if cracks appear.
Deceptive practices with resurfacing projects. Always get warranties—request it in writing.
Reviewing Past Local Projects
Request to view pictures or tour projects they completed in your area. Check for sharp edges, no flaking, and color that lines up with what you plan to install. Viewing completed work gives you a better sense of whether their aesthetic will suit your style.
Maintain Your Renewed Concrete Surface
When you stay on top of maintenance for a renewed concrete surface, that long-lasting value becomes evident. New surfaces, such as driveways and patios, require only a few basics in order to keep them looking pristine. By adhering to a few basic practices, you can ensure your concrete will hold up for well over ten years.
Performing regular cleaning and sealing can expand the pavement surface’s service life in these cases to 10-20 years. With an appropriate maintenance schedule, you are left with a concrete surface that retains its aesthetic appearance and durability, saving you in both costs and inconveniences.
Basic Cleaning Best Practices
Sweep concrete with a broom or use a leaf blower to prevent dirt from accumulating. Step 1—Cleaning Use a pH-neutral cleaner. This prevents corrosive and damaging reactions that can eat through the protective top layer.
Avoid abrasive cleaners such as bleach or ammonia, as they will break down the coating. When it comes to stains, simply using a scrub brush and mild, all-purpose soap will help your surface shine bright. Oil stains or rust stains are easy enough to remove using baking soda or a degreaser safe for concrete surfaces.
Dust with concrete cleaner and then rinse with cool water. Aim to clean at least once a month to maintain a beautiful result.
Importance of Regular Sealing
Sealant prevents damaging water, dirt, and UV rays from reaching your new surface. Generally, you want to reseal every 2 to 3 years. This step extends the life of surfaces greatly and enhances their appearance.
For driveways and patios, a premium acrylic or epoxy sealant will create a lovely finish. When it comes to walkways, using a penetrating sealant only prevents water from entering micro-cracks. Make sure to read labels and look for products that are made for outdoor use and for UV protection.
Addressing Minor Wear and Tear
Occasionally new small cracks or chips develop with time. Repairing these defects as soon as practical prevents larger repairs down the road. These early indicators are fraying edges or little craters.
A concrete patch kit or concrete patch filler will do wonders to ensure your surface remains even and filled. Regular small patches prevent the entire surface from getting weak and bumpy.
Specific Care Tips for Florida Weather
That extreme heat and wet air poses unique challenges for concrete in Florida. Clean surfaces regularly to prevent mold and algae. Include a slip-resistant finish in particularly wet areas.
Seal more frequently, every one to two years, because sun degrades sealants more quickly. Maintain your renewed concrete surface seasonally. Consider care requirements for each season, especially during quick changes in weather.
Conclusion
There’s nothing like a smooth coincidence of fresh concrete beneath your feet. After all, a smooth, bright new driveway or patio will give the entire property a more polished appearance. You receive a durable substrate that endures extreme elements and rigorous traffic. You can choose from hundreds of designs, including stone, brick, or just a sleek, smooth surface. Instead, you avoid the inconvenience and high expense of demolishing existing slabs. It’s an easy flooring update. A professional crew can knock it out quickly, so you’ll be back to enjoying and using your space in no time. Our local resurfacing pros are familiar with the terrain here and are equipped with the best top gear, ensuring you’re leaving with long-lasting results. Looking to repair or replace your concrete surface? Connect with a reliable concrete resurfacer in your area and reclaim the beauty of your space today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of concrete resurfacing in the U.S.?
Most homeowners spend $3–$7 per square foot on concrete resurfacing. Cost depends on the size, design complexity and condition of the existing surface. Always get quotes from local pros for the best price.
How long does resurfaced concrete last?
If put in right and maintained, resurfaced concrete can provide a long-lasting solution of 10 to 15 years or more. Longevity of the surface will vary based on climate, traffic, and proper upkeep/maintenance. Resurfacing concrete every few years will keep the material going strong.
Can concrete resurfacing fix cracks and pits?
Fix surface damage
Yes, concrete resurfacing will fill in small cracks, pits, and wear as it restores your surface finish. Deep structural issues, though, probably require more thorough repair work. It’s important to get a professional opinion from a trusted contractor.
What are the benefits of resurfacing instead of replacing?
Compared to other alternatives, resurfacing is cheaper, quicker, and less inconvenient. It gives old surfaces a new look, increases curb appeal, and eliminates the expense and inconvenience of jack-hammering out old concrete. At the end of the resurfacing process, everything is recycled, making the entire process eco-friendly.
How do I choose the right resurfacing design?
Think about your design aesthetic, color palette, and functionality of the space. Some of the more popular decorative concrete resurfacing styles are stamped, stained, and broom finishes. An experienced local design professional can help tailor different designs to fit your needs and budget.
How soon can I use my resurfaced concrete?
Most resurfaced concrete is walkable within 24 hours and drivable after 2 to 3 days. As a general rule, defer to your contractor’s guidance to achieve the best results.
How do I find a reliable concrete resurfacing contractor near me?
Search for licensed, insured professionals with high ratings and good standing and familiarity with the local area. Request for references and look at previous work. Get multiple quotes and make sure you’re on the same page before hiring.