Concrete Overlayments

What are Concrete Overlayments?

A Concrete overlayment is a thin, durable layer of concrete or cementitious material applied over existing surfaces to restore, enhance, or upgrade their appearance and functionality. Overlayments are commonly used to repair damaged concrete, create decorative finishes, or improve durability in high-traffic areas. This decorative concrete and repair solution transforms worn or outdated surfaces into polished, slip-resistant, or uniquely designed finishes without the need for full replacement.

Flagship Concrete Overlayments:

• Ardex

  Subfloor Preparation -

  1. Self Level Underlayments

  2. Primers, Crack Repair Products & Primers

  3. Patching Compounds

• Overlays & Toppings -

  1. ARDEX - K 525 with Dark Aggregate (Favorite)

  2. ARDEX - K520 - Polished Concrete Topping (Favorite)

We love the Sleek & Modern Look of our new Ardex Overlay. It's exactly what we envisioned!

Benefits of a Concrete Overlayment

• Restores Surfaces: Repairs cracks, discoloration, and surface imperfections. By using our ARDEX proven Concrete Overlayment System, we can take ANY NEW or Damaged concrete slab, and create a Modern & Sleep Polished concrete, or Sealed Concrete Finish.

• Decorative Options: Offers stained, or polished designs for customized aesthetics. Our ARDEX Concrete Overlayments are well known for their Sleek & Modern Finishes while offering the ability to be stained with concrete stain to give a Truly Unique and Creative Look!

• Durability: Creates a strong, weather-resistant, and long-lasting surface. Polished Concrete Overlayments are scratch resistant, and can withstand heavy foot traffic and forklift traffic making it an excellent choice for any floor surface setting.

• Cost-Effective: Avoids the expense of removing and replacing concrete. Ardex Concrete Overlayments & Underlayment's can save $1000's of dollars and days of time. Don't Replace, Repair and Re-TOP!

• Versatile Applications: Suitable for driveways, patios, walkways, showrooms, industrial floors, warehouses, commercial floors, residential homes, and more. If there is existing concrete, or a surface, we can Overlay it!

Benefits of Concrete Overlayments

"Monster Flex's Ardex Overlay gave our old, cracked concrete a beautiful new life. Highly recommend Ardex!"

What are the options of Concrete Overlayments?

• Wood Look Concrete Overlay

  • Mimics wood textured patterns for decorative outdoor or indoor spaces.

• Self-Leveling Overlay

  • Creates a smooth, even surface over uneven or damaged concrete, ideal for high-traffic areas.

• Polished Concrete Overlay

  • Delivers a sleek, glossy finish for modern interiors and commercial spaces.

• Stained Concrete Overlay

  • Adds vibrant or natural-looking colors for unique and artistic designs.

• Sealed Concrete Overlay

  Create a matte, Satin, or Gloss sealed concrete finish with Ardex Concrete Overlayments.

Concrete Overlayment Options

• Expertise in Overlayments: Skilled professionals with years of experience in applying decorative and functional overlays.

• Custom Solutions: Tailored designs to meet specific aesthetic and durability needs, including stamped, polished, and stained finishes.

• High-Quality Materials: Use of premium cement-based products and advanced techniques for long-lasting results.

• Versatile Applications: From residential patios to industrial floors, MonsterFlex handles a wide range of overlayment projects.

• Precision and Attention to Detail: Seamless finishes that enhance both appearance and performance.

• Durable and Weather-Resistant: Overlayments designed to withstand heavy traffic, extreme weather, and daily wear.

• Outstanding Customer Service: Dedicated to providing clear communication, timely completion, and exceptional results.

• Affordable Pricing: Competitive rates without compromising quality.

• Proven Track Record: Trusted by homeowners, businesses, and industrial clients for superior overlay solutions.

Why choose Monster Flex for Concrete Overlayments?

1. Surface Preparation

The Monster Flex / Ardex proper surface preparation is critical for successful installation.

• We Clean the substrate: We Remove all dirt, oil, grease, wax, paint, sealers, curing compounds, and any other contaminants.

• We Mechanically profile the concrete slab: Depending on the existing concrete slab, we may use a grinder, scarifier, or shot blaster to achieve a rough, porous surface (typically a concrete surface profile (CSP) of 3 to 5 as per ICRI standards).

• We repair damage: We fill cracks or holes with an appropriate Ardex patching or repair compound.

2. Priming

Priming ensures proper adhesion between the substrate and the overlayment.

• We Select the right primer: W use an Ardex-recommended primer for the specific substrate (e.g., ARDEX P 51 for absorbent substrates or ARDEX P 82 for non-porous surfaces).

• We apply the primer: Mix and apply the primer per the manufacturer’s instructions using a broom, roller, or sprayer.

• We allow the primer to dry: We ensure the primer dries fully before proceeding (dry times vary depending on product and site conditions).

3. Mixing the Overlayment

• We Use the right tools: We mix the overlayment with clean water using a high-speed drill and mixing paddle, we also use industry unique tools that allow us to mix up to 5 bags of concrete overlayment topping at a time, which increases efficiency, productivity, and helps with the end quality results.

• We follow mixing ratios: We carefully follow the water-to-product ratio indicated on the bag. This is very important to get a consistent mix result.

• We Mix thoroughly: To achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency, we avoid overmixing, as this can introduce air bubbles.

4. Application

• We pour the material: We immediately after mixing, pour the material onto the primed surface.

• We spread evenly: We use a rake or gauge rake to spread the material evenly to the desired thickness.

• We smooth the surface: We use a smoothing tool (e.g., trowel) to finish the surface.

• We work quickly: Overlayment products often have a short working time (15–20 minutes, depending on the product and environmental conditions). In order to handle this type of short time frame, it's essential to have a large team of knowledgeable concrete overlayment installers. Each installer has specific workstations, and instructions for installing concrete overlayments. This ensures that the process is done consistently, and efficiently resulting in excellent results.

5. Curing

• Proper curing: By following the manufacturer’s guidelines for curing time, we insure that the concrete overlayment has enough time to dry, which insures that the end finish comes out as desired.

• Avoid fast drying: We protect the surface from drafts, direct sunlight, or heat sources that might cause premature drying or cracking. We monitor the temperature of the environment including the foundation. Unregulated temperatures in the environment and foundation can lead to uneven drying and/or cracking.

6. Finishing

• Polish or seal (optional): If your desired finish is a mechanical polished concrete overlayment or topping, we use our large industrial grade concrete grinders to grind, hone, and polishing the concrete overlayment which gives it a smooth, durable and long lasting finish. This technique incorporates using diamond impregnated pads, and other metal bonded diamond blades that are attached to the bottom of the grinders. By grinding the surface, we expose the aggregate(small stones or sand) which is the below the surface. After several steps of grinding to smooth the surface, we then apply a densifyer specific to the manufacturers requirements. The densifier will harden the concrete slab, and assist in the future polishing process to create a hard and durable finish. Then, we continue the honing and polishing process ( typically 50/100 grit up to 400,800, and/or 1500 grit) which creates an enherient satin, or gloss finish. Once the honing and polishing process is complete, we apply a manufacturers recommended impregnating guard, or sealer which will help reduce potential staining , and increase shine, and durability.

Monster Flex uses ARDEX as its primary concrete overlayment due to their premium products and service. Our relationship with ARDEX offers you a premium service and assistance which increases the success of your job. Concrete Overlayments should only be installed and finished using certified applicators and experts in the concrete overlayment industry. With 15+ years of experience, Monster Flex is an expert in the concrete overlayment process. For more information, CLICK HERE, and one of our concrete overlayment EXPERTS will be happy to discuss your project, and offer FREE and unbiased recommendations based on your budget, needs, and requirements.

Concrete Overlayment Installation PROCESS

Proper maintenance of ARDEX concrete toppings, whether sealed or polished, is essential to preserve their appearance, durability, and performance. Here’s a Monster Flex guide tailored for both sealed and polished finishes:

1. General Maintenance Guidelines

Daily Cleaning

• Dust removal: Use a microfiber dust mop to remove dirt, dust, and debris. This prevents scratches and abrasions caused by particles.

• Wet cleaning: Use a damp mop with a pH-neutral cleaner diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners. For more information on cleaning products for polished & sealed concrete floors CLICK HERE to be directed to our polished concrete Maintenance page.

Avoid Harsh Conditions

• No abrasives: Avoid scrubbing pads or brushes that can scratch the surface.

• Spill cleanup: Clean spills promptly to prevent staining, especially for acidic or colored substances (e.g., wine, coffee, oil).

• Furniture protection: Use felt pads or plastic glides under furniture to minimize surface damage.

2. Maintenance for Polished Finishes

Click Here to be directed to our Polished & Sealed Concrete Maintenance guide which will help you with polished concrete cleaning products and tools.

Routine Care

• Dry buffing: Periodically dry buff with a high-speed burnisher and a polishing pad (e.g., diamond-impregnated or maintenance pad) to restore the shine and remove surface smudges.

• Neutral cleaners: Use a cleaner specifically formulated for polished concrete to avoid dulling the finish.

Periodic Maintenance

• Re-burnishing: Depending on traffic levels, re-burnish the surface every 6–12 months using a high-speed burnisher.

• Spot polishing: Address localized wear or dull spots with polishing pads.

Long-Term Care

• Stain guard reapplication: Reapply a stain-resistant guard or penetrating treatment every 1–3 years to maintain stain resistance and enhance gloss.

• Professional polishing: For heavily trafficked areas, schedule a professional polishing every 2–5 years to restore the surface to its original condition.

3. Maintenance for Sealed Finishes

Sealed finishes depend on a protective film or penetrating sealer to resist stains and wear. However, here is a general guide to maintaining sealed concrete overlayment finishes

Routine Care

• Gentle mopping: Mop regularly with a damp microfiber mop and pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid excessive water, as standing moisture can weaken the sealer.

• Resealing as needed: Monitor the sealer's integrity (e.g., dull areas or increased absorption of liquids) and reapply when needed.

Periodic Maintenance

• Buffing for sheen: If the sealer is burnishable, use a low-speed buffer or burnisher with an appropriate pad to restore the gloss.

• Spot sealing: Touch up areas where the sealer has worn off due to heavy use.

Long-Term Care

• Full resealing: Depending on traffic and use, re-apply the sealer every 1–2 years. Heavy foot traffic will require resealing sooner, and more periodically, while floors with less foot traffic ( homes, ect) may require less frequent re sealing. We offer a free evaluation for resealing concrete floors, and offer maintenance packages which include yearly evaluations to maintain your beautiful polished and sealed concrete finish.

4. Maintenance Tips for Both Finishes

• High-traffic areas: Increase the frequency of maintenance in high-use zones to prevent premature wear.

• Entrance mats: Use mats at entryways to capture dirt and moisture before it reaches the surface. Clean mats regularly.

• No wax needed: Avoid applying wax or acrylic coatings to ARDEX concrete toppings, as these can interfere with their natural or sealed finish.

5. Maintenance Tools and Products

• Microfiber mop: For dusting and damp mopping.

• pH-neutral cleaner: Designed for polished or sealed concrete. Avoid vinegar, ammonia, or bleach-based cleaners.

• Diamond pads: For periodic polishing or burnishing.

• Sealer-compatible cleaning agents: If the surface is sealed, ensure the cleaning product does not degrade the sealer.

By adhering to these guidelines, ARDEX concrete toppings or other concrete overlayments products can maintain their aesthetics, durability, and functionality for years to come.

Concrete Overlayment Maintenance PROCESS

Concrete Overlayment Gallery

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ARDEX K- 525

ARDEX K- 521

ARDEX K- 520

Disclaimer : Color of pictures and samples on the computer screen may be different then actual material and finished product color. For an exact color match, please contact us to receive a free project estimate & get a product sample.