Have you heard of the life saying that says ‘nothing last forever? That is true even with concrete surfaces. Concrete is known for its durability and very life span, still, it is susceptible to cracks and chips. Don’t worry though, concrete is easy to maintain and repair. One of the best ways to repair concrete cracks is by pouring new concrete. Pouring new concrete over an old one is also a way to redesign your floor.

Most concrete contractors find it easy to pour new concrete over old ones. If you are not sure if you can do it alone, here four basic steps to do so. Still, it is best to hire a professional concrete contractor if you are not experienced in this kind of job.

Four Steps to Pour New Concrete Over an Old One

Clean the old surface

The effectiveness of a newly poured concrete relies on how well the new concrete will bond with the old one. To do so, make sure that the old concrete is well cleaned. Sweep the surface to remove debris, small stones, sand, and gravel. Use a broom to remove debris from cracks or a pressure washer. Use degreaser or liquid soap to remove all dirt and stains. Use scrub if necessary.

Setup the Perimeter of Where to Pour the New Concrete

Use wood when setting up the perimeter. The perimeter will ensure that the new concrete will only be poured on where it is needed. The braces will also keep the poured concrete even on the surface. If pouring a thick slab of concrete, you must add wire within the braces for added strength.

Pouring the New Concrete

Once the old concrete is cleaned and the perimeter is set, you can now pour the new concrete. For the new concrete, it is best to have smaller stones for the mixture. Once poured, use a trovel or a paver to make the pour more even.

Leave it to Dry and Cure It

The curing process of new concrete is the same as any concrete construction. Concrete contractors often leave newly poured concrete for up to 28 days for proper curing. During curing, it is important to keep the concrete wet from time to time.

When to Pour New Concrete?

Some people might say it is best to just replace an old concrete slab rather than cover it with a new one. This is a case-to-case basis though. It is best to pour new concrete into old ones if you just want to cover unlikely concrete surfaces. It is the best way to hide surface imperfections. It is a cheap way to remedy discoloration problems and to replace old finishing.

For some concrete contractors, pouring new concrete is also the best way to repair cracks.

Takeaway

Pouring new concrete over an old one can be a DIY project especially if you have the tools needed. Still, for the best result, it is best to contact a professional concrete contractor. A concrete contractor can even assess if pouring in new concrete is better than replacing the entire surface .