Who this is for
This service is for property owners with concrete that's structurally sound but cosmetically or surface damaged. If the slab is holding its shape and isn't cracked into separate moving pieces, resurfacing is usually a good option. It applies to driveways, walkways, patios, pads and other flatwork around a property.
Common problems we fix
- Spalling, where the top layer of concrete flakes or pops off
- Pitting and pop-outs caused by freeze-thaw cycles and de-icing salt
- Worn, rough or stained surfaces from years of weather and use
- Uneven patches left behind by earlier repairs
Texture and finish options
A resurfaced slab doesn't have to look like plain gray concrete. We can finish the surface with a broom texture for traction, a smoother troweled finish for a cleaner look, or a decorative texture depending on where the slab is and how it's used. We'll go over the options that make sense for your project during the estimate.
Choosing a texture for the location
A driveway or walkway usually calls for a broom finish so it stays safe to walk and drive on when wet, while a patio or pool deck might lean toward a decorative or textured finish that's more comfortable underfoot.
Color and tint options
Beyond plain gray, the resurfacing layer can be tinted to a color that fits the surrounding house or landscaping. We'll bring samples to the estimate so you can see the options against your property.
Signs a slab is a good candidate for resurfacing
- Hairline surface cracking that hasn't moved or widened over time
- Dusting, flaking, or a chalky residue left on your shoes after walking on it
- Rough patches, pits or pop-outs scattered across an otherwise flat slab
- Faded, stained or blotchy color that cleaning alone won't fix
Caring for a resurfaced slab
Resurfaced concrete holds up best with a little routine attention. Sweeping off grit and leaves keeps the surface from getting scratched underfoot, and rinsing away de-icing salt through the winter limits how much of it soaks into the new layer.
- Sweep or rinse off dirt, grit and leaves regularly
- Rinse de-icing salt off walkways and driveways through winter rather than letting it sit
- Reseal on the schedule we recommend for your specific sealer
- Address new cracks or chips early before they spread or let water underneath
Freeze-thaw and de-icing salt
Richmond winters bring freeze-thaw cycles, and de-icing salt used on walkways and driveways accelerates surface damage over time. Water gets into small pores in the concrete, freezes, and expands, which pits and flakes the surface a little more each winter.
Resurfacing gives that worn layer a fresh, uniform surface, and we'll also talk about sealer options during the estimate to help slow this kind of damage going forward.
When resurfacing isn't the answer
Resurfacing adds a new top layer, it doesn't fix structural problems underneath. If a slab has heaved, sunk, or broken into loose moving pieces, a resurfacing layer won't hold up and will crack again within a short time.
We'll tell you plainly during the estimate if replacement is the better choice instead of selling a repair that won't last. It's a conversation we'd rather have up front than after the work is done.
Process
Prep
We clean and mechanically profile the existing concrete so the resurfacing material has something to bond to.
Repair
Deeper cracks, pits and spalled sections are repaired before the resurfacing layer goes down, so the finished surface doesn't telegraph old damage underneath.
Resurfacing layer
The new layer is applied while preserving existing control joints, which let the slab move without cracking the fresh surface along the way.
Texture and sealing
We finish with the texture you choose and seal the surface to help protect it from water and salt going forward.
How long it takes
Timeline depends on the size of the area, how much crack and spall repair is needed, and the weather. Concrete work needs suitable temperatures and dry conditions to cure properly, so we schedule around the forecast and will keep you updated if weather pushes the date back.
What it costs
Resurfacing is priced per project after a free on-site estimate. Square footage, the amount of repair needed, and the texture and sealer you choose all affect the price; see our cost guide for more on how we quote jobs, or reach out through contact to get on the schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will resurfacing fix a cracked driveway?
It depends on the crack. Surface cracks and spalling can be repaired and resurfaced. Cracks from a heaved or sunken slab usually need a different fix, which we'll point out during the estimate.
How long does a resurfaced slab need to cure before use?
This depends on the material and the weather. We'll give you exact timing for foot and vehicle traffic for your specific job.
Can you match the texture of surrounding concrete?
We can choose a texture that fits the area, though an exact match to aged surrounding concrete isn't guaranteed.
Do control joints still work after resurfacing?
Yes, we preserve existing control joints during the resurfacing process so the slab can still move as designed.
What causes concrete to pit and flake in Richmond?
Freeze-thaw cycles and de-icing salt are common causes, along with age and general wear.
Do I need to be home during the work?
No, but the area needs to be clear of vehicles, furniture or stored items before we start.
Can you resurface a walkway or patio, not just a driveway?
Yes, resurfacing works on driveways, walkways, patios and other concrete flatwork.
Do you serve areas outside Richmond city?
Yes, we take on resurfacing projects in Henrico, Glen Allen, Short Pump, Midlothian, Chesterfield, Mechanicsville and Ashland as well as Richmond.
Areas we serve: Richmond, Henrico, Glen Allen, Short Pump, Midlothian, Chesterfield, Mechanicsville, Ashland. All service areas