What is the Difference Between Patching and Resurfacing Concrete?

Patching concrete and resurfacing it are two different processes of fixing concrete. Patching concrete is more for cracks, filling holes, and other more localized issues. Resurfacing concrete usually involves giving a large surface area a whole new layer using a concrete overlay mix.

Patching concrete is like putting bandages over specifically broken areas. It usually involves a fairly basic mortar or concrete mix with a small amount of admixtures for increased bonding properties. Concrete patches will be much lighter than the older concrete being fixed and will be visibly definable. If this visible difference in color is not desirable, you could consider resurfacing the concrete.

Concrete resurfacing can patch the problem areas as well as give the whole concrete area a new surface layer. The right concrete mix for resurfacing is a specialty mix that is highly modified with polymers to allow it to be applied in a very thin layer, much thinner than normal concrete would be able to be poured. A concrete overlay allows for some creative control as well. You could add color to the overlay mix and change the look of the entire concrete area. Textures could be added to the new surface as well - broomed finish, stamped concrete, stone textures, etc.

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