Commercial flooring is a significant expense. We offer some of the best prices in all of the Denver area, but we also recognize that even at our low prices, concrete can be expensive, especially if you need to redo the entirety of your flooring. It’s natural to want to look for lower cost alternatives when your concrete is in disrepair.
At Colorado Concrete Repair, we will always be transparent with our recommendations. If we say new concrete is needed, then you can trust that new concrete is needed. However, there are also potential alternatives you can consider. For those that are trying to reduce their expenses, for example, we may want to look into some of these different options, as many provide a cost savings while still providing you with excellent concrete improvements.
If you’d like personalized recommendations based on your existing concrete, and you’re located in Denver, Boulder, Aurora, or anywhere in our part of Colorado, please give us a call today or fill out our online form for more information.
Option 1: Resurfacing Existing Concrete
One of the most popular alternatives to new concrete is resurfacing, a method that involves applying a new layer of material over an existing concrete slab. This approach restores the surface without the need for a complete replacement, which can be both time and cost-intensive. Benefits include:
- Cost-Effective – Resurfacing requires fewer materials and less labor compared to tearing out and replacing old concrete. This makes it a more affordable solution, particularly for large commercial spaces like parking lots or warehouses.
- Aesthetic Improvement – Resurfacing can also be used to improve the appearance of worn or damaged concrete. Various finishes, including stamped, stained, or polished concrete, can be applied to achieve a more polished or decorative look.
- Durability – When applied correctly, resurfaced concrete can extend the life of the original structure and provide enhanced resistance to wear, weather, and chemicals, making it a durable option for commercial environments.
Resurfacing existing concrete can potentially add years, sometimes even decades to a the life of your concrete flooring, all without replacing the concrete all together.
Option 2: Concrete Repair
In situations where the structural integrity of the concrete is still sound but surface-level damage exists, repair may be a viable alternative to a full concrete replacement. Various repair techniques are used to address common issues like cracks, spalling, and surface degradation. Examples include:
- Crack Injection – For cracks in concrete, epoxy or polyurethane injections are commonly used to fill the gaps and prevent further damage. These materials bond to the existing concrete and restore its strength, reducing the need for more extensive repairs.
- Concrete Patching – Patching damaged areas with new concrete or specialized repair compounds can restore the surface and improve functionality. This method is ideal for isolated areas of damage, offering a targeted solution without disrupting the entire structure.
- Spalling Repair – In cases where concrete has begun to flake or chip away, spalling repairs can be carried out to restore the surface. Techniques include applying a bonding agent and topping mix to fill in and smooth the affected areas, improving both the appearance and durability of the concrete.
Please keep in mind, however, that the exact repairs needed and cost can vary dramatically. Small repairs require much less than larger repairs, for example, and the techniques used can vary. We will provide a more through explanation at our initial discussion.
Option 3: Concrete Overlays
Concrete overlays are another popular alternative in commercial settings, particularly for projects that require additional structural strength or a new surface texture. Overlays are thin layers of cement-based material applied over existing concrete to create a new, functional surface. Potential benefits include:
- Enhanced Performance – Certain overlays are designed to improve the performance of existing concrete by adding slip resistance, increasing surface hardness, or providing better weather resistance. This makes them especially useful for high-traffic areas or spaces exposed to harsh environmental conditions.
- Custom Finishes – Overlays can be customized to achieve a variety of finishes, from smooth polished surfaces to textured or stamped designs. This allows commercial spaces to achieve the desired aesthetic without the need for entirely new concrete.
- Reduced Downtime – Installing an overlay is typically faster than pouring new concrete, making it an efficient option for commercial projects that need to minimize downtime.
Concrete overlays is a simple, effective option that can work in some situations, but it is also heavily dependent on the type of flooring you currently have.
Option 4: Polished Concrete
Although not ideal for all settings, polished concrete can be an excellent choice. Unlike most of the above options, which are centered around adding concrete or coating to any flooring, polished concrete is creating form existing concrete, with layers taken away and polished to reveal a unique, water resistant flooring underneath.
Many of the people that call us here at Colorado Concrete Repair and up finding that this type of flooring is their best option, but – when polished concrete was not originally a consideration at the time of the flooring – we have to determine if this is going to be the right choice for you. We can discuss this at the time of the estimate.
When to Consider Alternatives to New Concrete
While new concrete is still necessary in many situations, alternatives can be advantageous depending on the project’s goals, budget, and timeline. Renovation projects, structural repairs, and aesthetic upgrades often benefit from these alternatives, as they offer reduced costs and faster installation without sacrificing performance.
Choosing between new concrete and alternative methods depends on several factors:
- Condition of the Existing Concrete – If the structural integrity is still intact, repair or resurfacing may be more appropriate than a full replacement.
- Budget – Alternatives such as resurfacing or recycled concrete offer cost savings that can make a significant difference in large-scale commercial projects.
- Project Timeline – When project deadlines are tight, methods like precast concrete or overlays can reduce downtime and ensure quicker completion.
By carefully evaluating the specific needs of a project, commercial developers and contractors can choose the best concrete solution to achieve both functionality and long-term durability.
Get Started Today with Colorado Concrete Repair
Colorado Concrete Repair is Denver’s best commercial flooring company specializing in concrete and epoxy. If you think – or know – that your property needs new flooring, the best thing you can do is contact CCR today and let our team take a look and provide a transparent discussion of the many different options. Contact us today to get started.
