How Thin Can A Concrete Overlay Be?
How Thin Can A Concrete Overlay Be?
Concrete overlays less than 6 inches (152 mm) thick are frequently referred to as “thin,” whereas overlays less than 4 inches (102 mm) thick are occasionally referred to as “ultra-thin.” These thin overlays also have lower slab sizes, with 6 feet by 6 feet (1.8 by 1.8 m) panels being the most popular.
This technical brief gives an overview of thin concrete overlays and includes a description of four case studies to demonstrate the wide range of applications for thin concrete overlays.
Thin concrete overlays are categorized based on the existing pavement type and the design composite activity.
The overlay is referred to as “bonded” when it is attached to the existing pavement in order to operate as a monolithic structure. The overlay is deemed “unbonded” if it is isolated from the underlying pavement or built with some slippage at the contact with the existing pavement.
What Material Is Used For The Concrete Overlay?
A concrete overlay system is a thin, cement-based covering put directly over an existing concrete slab.
While most traditional overlay systems can only be used on concrete, Alternative Surfaces’ X-Bond overlay system can be used on concrete, tiles, and compressed sheeting, opening up a world of options for renovators and new house builders.
A concrete overlay is typically necessary for maintenance or cosmetic purposes. You may not like the color of the concrete; there may be a lot of irregularity and defects in the slab, visual damage from previous trades and works, or serious cracks.
The benefit of a concrete overlay system like X-Bond is that you can still create a concrete-looking aesthetic on your floor, a more uniform and consistent surface, and may be the desired shade of grey.
Can You Overlay Over Cracked Concrete?
Yes, you may put a concrete overlay system over cracked concrete, but you should know a few things before. Overlaying over fractured concrete does not ensure that the cracks will not reappear once the new overlay system is installed.
Because overlay systems adhere to the underlying substrate, fractures may still emerge through your overlay.
If significant cracking or expansion joints exist, a saw cut or profile may generally be made in these regions to allow for movement. Assisting in reducing the possibility of fractures emerging through your overlay.
There are several overlays on the market, and you’ll want to choose a long-lasting, high-quality overlay like X-Bond microcement. Your installer may propose an anti-fracture membrane to conceal any existing fractures.
