How to Resurface Concrete: DIY Steps

Cracked, stained, or worn-out concrete doesn't always need to be torn out and replaced. If the slab underneath is still solid, concrete resurfacing lets you apply a fresh top layer over the existing surface, restoring the look without the demolition costs or labor.

This approach works on multiple surfaces, giving old concrete new life at a fraction of the price of full replacement.

When Should You Resurface Concrete?

Resurfacing fixes cosmetic problems, not structural failures. Before you start, assess the condition of your existing concrete to make sure it's good to work with.

Resurfacing works well for:

• Hairline cracks up to ¼ inch wide

• Surface spalling or flaking on the top layer

• Discoloration, stains, or faded color

• Minor pitting from weather and age

• Rough texture that's become uneven

Resurfacing won't fix:

• Cracks deeper than ½ inch or cracks that go all the way through the slab

• Sections that heave, sink, or shift when weight is applied

• Concrete that's crumbling or breaking apart

• Severe frost damage with large-scale deterioration

If you step on the concrete and feel movement, or if cracks keep widening over time, you're dealing with a concrete leveling or replacement issue, not a surface problem. Applying resurfacer over unstable concrete just wastes time and money.

Common Concrete Surfaces You Can Resurface

The resurfacing process is similar across different applications, with minor adjustments for slope and drainage:

• Concrete driveway – Heavy vehicle and foot traffic make driveways a popular choice for resurfacing

• Concrete patio – Restore your outdoor space without tearing up landscaping

• Pool deck – Improve appearance and add slip-resistant texture around water

• Garage floor – Repair wear from vehicles, tools, and equipment

• Walkway – Refresh high-traffic paths between buildings or yard areas

• Concrete pad – Workshop slabs, AC pads, and utility areas

Whether you're working on 50 square feet or 500, the prep and application steps remain consistent.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Gather everything before you start. Concrete resurfacer sets fast, and you won't have time to run to the hardware store mid-pour.

Materials

Tools

• Pressure washer (3,000+ PSI recommended)

• Squeegee or gauge rake for spreading

• Trowel for edges and detail work

• Mixing equipment

• Push broom for adding texture

• Painter's tape and plastic sheeting

• Safety gear: gloves, eye protection, knee pads

A Note on Mixing Equipment

Mixing resurfacer by hand or with a drill attachment is slow, inconsistent, and exhausting, especially on larger pours. Batches come out lumpy or with the wrong water ratio, and you're constantly stopping to mix more while your wet edge dries out.

The MudMixer solves this problem. It's fully adjustable water dial lets you set the exact consistency, and the continuous mixing system keeps material flowing without stopping. One person can process over 45 bags of dry mix per hour, turning what's normally a 3-4 person job into a one-person job. For a resurfacing project where timing matters, that kind of output makes a real difference.

Step-by-Step Guide to Resurfacing Concrete

Step 1: Clean the Existing Concrete Surface

Resurfacer only bonds to clean, sound concrete. Any dirt, oil, or loose material left on the surface will cause adhesion failure.

Start by pressure washing at 3,000 PSI or higher. Work in overlapping passes and pay attention to stained areas. If needed, use a degreaser and stiff brush on oil spots. Remove any paint, sealer, or coatings that might prevent bonding.

After washing, let the surface dry until it's damp but not wet. You don't want puddles, but you also don't want bone-dry concrete. This usually takes 30 minutes to a few hours depending on weather conditions.

Step 2: Repair Cracks and Damaged Areas

Fill any cracks wider than ⅛ inch with a concrete repair compound. Use a trowel to press the filler into the crack and smooth it flush with the existing surface.

Chip away loose or flaking concrete with a chisel and brush away debris. These weak spots will telegraph through the resurfacer if left unaddressed.

Let the repair material cure according to the manufacturer's directions (usually 24 hours). Skipping this step or rushing it leads to cracks reappearing in your finished surface within months.

Step 3: Dampen the Existing Surface

Right before applying the resurfacer, mist the concrete slab with water. The surface should be uniformly damp, not soaking wet. Standing water dilutes the resurfacer and weakens the bond.

Dampening prevents the old concrete from sucking moisture out of the fresh resurfacer too quickly. This is especially important in hot weather or direct sun, where the mix can dry out before it properly cures.

If you're covering a large area like a full driveway, dampen only the section you're about to coat.

Step 4: Mix the Concrete Resurfacer

Follow the manufacturer's water-to-mix ratio exactly. Too much water weakens the final surface. Too little makes the product unworkable.

Mix only what you can apply in 10-15 minutes. Concrete resurfacer starts setting fast, and once it thickens, you can't add more water to thin it back out. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter. Pourable but thick enough to stay where you spread it.

This is where proper equipment pays off. Hand-mixing in a 5-gallon bucket can create lumps and an inconsistent texture. The MudMixer's patented two-phase infusion system combines water and dry material through dual internal spray nozzles and a horizontal auger. You get a smooth, consistent flow of mixed material delivered right where you need it. The adjustable water dial means no more guessing. Dial in your mix and keep pouring until the job's done.

Step 5: Apply the Resurfacer

Pour the mixed resurfacer onto the dampened concrete and spread immediately with a squeegee or gauge rake. Work in manageable sections (roughly 10 square feet at a time).

Keep a wet edge at all times. If the edge of your applied section starts to dry before you blend the next pour into it, you'll get visible lap marks in the finished surface.

Apply at ⅛" to ¼" thickness unless the product specifies otherwise. Use a trowel to work the material into edges, corners, and along any joints or forms.

Work quickly. Most resurfacers become unworkable within 15-20 minutes of mixing.

Step 6: Add Texture (Optional)

For areas that need slip resistance (driveways, pool decks, walkways), drag a push broom across the surface before it skins over. Pull the broom in one consistent direction for clean, uniform lines.

Broom texture is standard for exterior concrete. For a decorative finish, you can use texture mats or stamped concrete patterns at this stage. Some contractors cut geometric lines with a groover or use tape to create tile-like patterns for a custom design.

Step 7: Cure and Protect

Once applied, the resurfacer needs time to cure properly:

• Keep foot traffic off for at least 24 hours

• No vehicle traffic for 48-72 hours (check your specific product's recommendations)

• In hot, dry weather conditions, mist the surface lightly to prevent it from drying too fast

• Avoid applying when temperatures are above 90°F or below 50°F

If rain is in the forecast within 24 hours, wait for a better window. Water hitting uncured resurfacer will damage the finish.

Learn Best Practices for Concrete Curing →

Finishing Options: Beyond Basic Resurfacing

A plain gray surface isn't your only option. Once you've resurfaced, or as part of the application process, you can add color and texture for a more finished look.

Integral Color

Pigment mixed directly into the resurfacer creates uniform color throughout the material. This eliminates the painted-on look and holds up better to wear.

Concrete Coatings

Epoxy or acrylic sealers applied after curing add gloss, stain resistance, and protection from moisture. Popular for garage floors and indoor concrete slabs.

New Stain

Acid-based or water-based stains penetrate the surface to create natural-looking color variation. Stains work well over resurfaced concrete once it's fully cured.

Stamped Concrete Overlay

Patterned mats pressed into the wet resurfacer create the look of stone, brick, or tile. This decorative concrete option is popular for patios and pool decks where homeowners want more visual appeal.

Custom Borders and Patterns

Saw cuts or tape applied before coating can create geometric patterns, faux tile lines, or contrasting border sections in a different color.

These design options give your resurfaced concrete a finished look that goes beyond basic gray, without the cost of a full decorative pour.

Tips for a Professional-Looking Finish

A few extra steps separate a DIY patch job from a surface that looks professionally done:

• Check the forecast before starting. You need at least 24 hours of dry weather.

• Work during cooler parts of the day or in shade. Direct sun accelerates drying time and makes the resurfacer harder to spread.

• Don't over-trowel. Excessive working brings water to the surface and weakens the finish.

• Keep extra material mixed and ready so you can maintain a wet edge on larger pours.

• Protect landscaping, walls, and adjacent surfaces from splatter with plastic sheeting.

• Apply a concrete sealer 7-14 days after resurfacing. Sealing extends the life of the surface and makes it easier to clean.

• For large areas like a driveway or garage floor, work with a helper to keep pace with mixing and spreading.

How Long Does Resurfaced Concrete Last?

When properly applied over sound concrete, a resurfaced surface typically lasts 8-15 years. Factors that affect longevity include traffic levels, climate, and how well you maintain the finish.

Sealing every 2-3 years protects against moisture penetration, staining, and UV damage. In high-traffic areas or harsh climates, more frequent sealing extends the surface life further.

Compared to tearing out and pouring new concrete, resurfacing costs roughly 50-70% less. And if the resurfaced layer eventually wears down but the bond remains intact, you can apply a second coat down the road.

Get the Job Done Faster

Concrete resurfacing is straightforward work, but it demands efficiency. The material sets fast, timing matters, and inconsistent mixing leads to inconsistent results. Whether you're resurfacing a small concrete patio or tackling a full driveway, getting the mix right makes the job faster and the finish better.

The MudMixer is the fastest multi-use mixer on the market. Its continuous mixing technology and adjustable water dial give you complete control over consistency. No more batch mixing, no more soupy or dry batches. One person can mix a full yard of material in an hour, cutting your labor time in half.

Ready to see how it works? Find a dealer near you or check out the MudMixer online.