A Look at the Different Types of Concrete Overlays

When it comes to concrete surfacing serving San Marcos, there is more than one way to get the job done. Concrete overlay projects may range in scale and extensiveness from microtoppings, which are also known as skim coats, to underlayments of an inch and a half in depth. It helps to understand these different types of concrete overlays so that you can make the right decision regarding your particular project. Keep reading if you would like to take a look at the different types of concrete overlays.

Microtoppings
When the situation calls for an extremely thin application of concrete overlay, a microtopping might be your best bet. Also known as skim coats, microtoppings typically run up to 1/8 ^th of an inch in thickness. These ultra thin overlays are versatile in that they can be used on both floor and wall treatments, and they provide a flexible quality that other overlays cannot. There are plenty of options when it comes to coloring your microtoppings: You can introduce dry pigments to the surface, use dyes to create attractive accents, or add color into the mix. Microtoppings can produce a specific texture or serve as a completely smooth surface.

Stampable Overlays
If you are looking for something a bit thicker than a microtopping, you might be interested in stampable overlays. Ranging from ¼ to ¾ inch in depth, stampable overlays tend to be ideal when it comes to addressing imperfections in your concrete. These overlays are also similar to microtoppings in that they can be colored in various ways, such as stains, sealers, and broadcast pigments. Many home and business owners use stampable overlays to emulate the look of other materials like slate and brick, offering a range of textures and styles.

Underlayments
While microtoppings and stampable overlays both fall short of a full inch in depth, underlayments may be as thick as a full inch and a half. If your concrete is in good shape structurally but could use some tuning up before receiving a floor covering, underlayments can help to smooth out your base before completing your project.