Stamped concrete overlay in Pittsburgh
A stamped concrete overlay puts a new pattern on an old slab. A thin layer of polymer-modified cement goes over the concrete you already have, and it's stamped much like a new pour. It costs less than tearing out, but only if the slab beneath is sound.
Can your slab take an overlay?
An overlay copies whatever's under it. A slab that's moving will crack the new surface in the same places, so we look for these things first.
- The slab is level, with no sunken panels
- Cracks are thin and no longer growing
- The surface is worn, not breaking up
- Water runs off without ponding
- Door thresholds leave room for a small rise
How the overlay goes on
Preparation is most of the job. The slab is cleaned and ground or shot-blasted until the surface is open, so that the new layer bonds. Old sealer has to go. Cracks are repaired, and joints are marked so that they carry through to the new surface. Then a bonding coat goes on, followed by the overlay itself, which is colored and stamped with lightweight mats.
The result can look as good as a new pour. It won't take quite the same abuse, though, so it's best suited to patios, walkways and pool decks and not to driveways that see heavy trucks.
Overlay or new slab?
An overlay usually costs about 60 percent of a new stamped slab, with very little demolition. But it's only as good as the concrete below it. If your patio has settled, is badly cracked or sits on a poor base, your money is better spent on a new stamped concrete patio. We'll give you an honest view at the first visit.
How the job goes
- Check the slab
We test for level, soundness and old sealer.
- Prepare
The surface is ground and cleaned.
- Repair
Cracks are filled, and joints are marked.
- Overlay
The new layer is colored and stamped.
- Seal
Sealer protects the finished surface.
Common questions
Can you fix a cracked concrete patio?
Yes. Thin cracks can be filled, and an overlay can hide them if the slab isn't moving.
Can you repair concrete patio?
Often. A level patio can be patched and overlaid. A sunken one usually needs lifting or replacing.
How to make a concrete backyard look better?
Stain it, stamp an overlay on it or add a border. Each gives an old slab a new look for less than a tear-out.
How to make concrete backyard look nice?
Clean it, then add color with a stain or a pattern with an overlay.
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