When it comes to concrete overlay San Diego, there are many ways to achieve the look and feel you’re going for. One popular option is a skim coat overlay, which can be applied thin or thick. But what’s the difference between these two options?

What is a Thick Overlay?

Thick overlays can be rough floor surfaces outdoors. Usually, pavers or thicker tiles are used to create this look.

The installation is pretty simple too. You will measure and mark the area where you want your thick overlay. Then, using a saw, cut the pavers or tiles to size and lay them down in the marked area. Once all the pieces are in place, use a sealer to protect your new surfaces.

Thick overlays are a great way to improve the look of your concrete surfaces. They can be used to create an outdoor living space, patio, or walkway.

elegant backyard pool

What are Thin Overlays?

A common type is micro topping and skims coat. These are thin overlays. Their use is for coating pool decks to provide a cool surface with a reflective purpose so that the heat will bounce off the surface. 

They are also applied to concrete that has been damaged or is showing age as a way to give the concrete new life.

To apply micro topping and skim coat, the concrete must be cleaned and prepped first. 

Once it’s ready, the thin overlay is applied in a very thin layer, and it’s important that the coating is even and smooth. 

Once it’s dry, a sealer can be applied to protect the new surface.

Thin overlays are a great way to improve the look of your concrete surfaces. They are also an excellent option for damaged concrete or showing age. 

Thin coats add style and textures to the concrete surfaces. The thin coating is the way to go if you need a little decorative flair for your patios, driveways, home, or commercial property.

Thick Skim Coat Overlay

A thick skim coat overlay differs from a thin skim coat overlay. As you might expect, this skim coat is much broader, giving it more durability. 

In addition to being more durable, thick skim coats provide better protection against staining and wear and tear. 

So, a thick skim coat overlay is the way to go for a more durable option that will still provide a great look.

Thin Skim Coat Overlay

A thin skim coat overlay is exactly what it sounds like: a thin layer of material applied to the surface of your concrete. This type of skim coat is typically only used for cosmetic purposes, as it doesn’t provide much protection against wear and tear. 

A thin skim coat overlay is a great option if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to change the look of your concrete without making any major changes.

FAQs to Takeaway

A concrete overlay is a layer of concrete applied to the surface of your existing concrete surface. This concrete overlay is usually used for cosmetic and functional purposes. 

Concrete overlay for pool decks is a layer of concrete applied to the surface of your existing concrete. It is usually used for both cosmetic and functional purposes.

The types of concrete overlays are:

  • Skim Coat Overlay
  • Thick Concrete Overlay (Stamped concrete overlay, pavers)
  • Self-Leveling Concrete Overlay
  • Polymer, Modified Concrete Overlay
  • Acid Stained Concrete Overlay

The various thicknesses of concrete overlay San Diego are:

  • 1/16 inch – used for a skinny layer that’s applied for cosmetic purposes only
  • 1/8 inch – used for a thin layer that can be used for both decorative and functional purposes
  • 1/4 inch – used for a thick layer that’s typically used for practical purposes only
  • 3/8 inch – used for a very thick layer that’s usually only used for highly heavy-duty application
  • 5/8 inch- used for a very thick concrete overlay
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