The evolution of applying cement overlays onto existing concrete has been an amazing phenomenon as the technology has continued to improve. I can remember when Sundek was just getting started back in 1970 and we announced to world that we could provide a decorative, slip resistant finish to existing older concrete. The thing that always stuck in my mind was the large group of naysayers telling us that it wouldn’t work. Well I guess after installing millions of square feet of quality Sundek overlays in every climate on nearly every continent in the world, we proved them wrong - it does work!!– Sundek is such an amazing product.
Sundek overlays come in a wide variety of systems and finished looks depending on the desired look and the intended use. When working with my customers I prefer to find out how the customer plans to use the area, what their expectations are for color-texture and patterns and finally how they intend to maintain the surface in the future. This important information helps me understand which Sundek system to recommend for the intended situation. I know that my customer is going to get the best use and full satisfaction from my knowledge and experience in the decorative concrete industry.
Today, Sundek offers over twenty different decorative concrete systems and materials ranging from Classic Texture for pool decks to metallic epoxies for restaurant floors. Each system has unique characteristics and performance properties. The ultimate challenge is for the Sundek customer and the Sundek estimator to decide on the correct system choice for the project.
A few years ago I was introduced to a fabulous decision making process that helps us work our way toward making the best choices when choosing a decorative overlay or just about any other process for that matter. This concept was developed by the International Concrete Repair Institute to help process the correct decision making for making proper repairs to large concrete structures. I have found this concept works for just about any situation when it comes to decorative concrete selection. Here’s how it works:
When you are going to consider a decorative concrete project write down these criteria points and use them as a starting point when interviewing the decorative concrete contractors that give you an estimate for your project.
In the next series of blogs I will discuss the various Sundek overlay systems and utilize the selection method process above as we go.
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