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If you have a damaged concrete driveway, you may be able to resurface it instead of replacing it. This can save you a lot of money because resurfacing is less expensive when compared to purchasing and installing a new driveway. Keep reading to learn how a contractor resurfaces a concrete driveway so you will know what to expect.

Prepare the Surface

The contractor will inspect the surface of the concrete driveway. If any cracks are found, they will be repaired before they start resurfacing. Once this is done, the concrete contractor will clean the driveway to remove dirt, grease, oil, etc. They may use a bleach solution to do this or may use acid if the driveway is extremely dirty. When the driveway is cleaned, they may go over it again with a power washer to ensure everything is off the driveway. The driveway must be cleaned for the resurfacer to bond with it. 

Install Resurfacer

The concrete contractor will wet down the driveway and ensure there is no standing water when they finish. The water content is an important part of this process. The contractor will know the proper ratios to use for this. This is one of the many reasons why a professional should do this job for you. 

They will then mix the resurfacer and pour it on the driveway. They use a long-handled brush to spread the resurfacer over the driveway. The contractor will do this one section at a time until the entire driveway is covered. They will make sure the resurfacer is even when they finish. The contractor will know the proper thickness for the resurfacer. 

After a certain amount of time, the contractor will use a finishing broom over the concrete to provide texture and make the driveway non-skid for you. In most cases one coat of resurfacer is sufficient. If the contractor does choose to use a second coat, the first coat must be completely dry first. This may take a day or two and you will not be able to use your driveway. The contractor may then put a sealant on the driveway to further protect it from the elements. If so, they will likely wait a week or so to give the concrete time to cure completely. 

The concrete contractor will give you much more information on how the resurfacing process works. While they are there, they can also resurface other concrete surfaces, such as a pathway or a patio.  

For more info about concrete overlay, contact a local company.