Bob Harris’ Guide to Concrete Overlays & Toppings
Become an Expert in Concrete Overlay and Topping with This Practical Instruction Manual on Rejuvenating Concrete Floors, Driveways, Exterior Flatwork and even Wall Surfaces

Learn from this practical instruction manual how to rejuvenate concrete floors, driveways, exterior flatwork, and even wall surfaces. Offer your customers beautiful alternatives to costly removal and replacement of old concrete.

Here you’ll find detailed application techniques for concrete on different surfaces, and how to select the most appropriate resurfacing system for each project. You’ll learn how to estimate materials, prep and prepare surfaces, repair cracks, and test for moisture-vapor transmission.

Step-by-step instructions are included for obtaining different finishes – including the use of stamping mats, stencils, spray-downs, micro-topping, scoring techniques, working with gelled acid, polishing, and applying stains, dyes, tints, and even selecting and applying the right sealer.

Shows how to set up a mixing station and gives estimated curing times for many overlay jobs. Provides proven marketing tips to get your overlay and topping business going. Includes Websites and addresses of manufacturers offering overlay and coating products.

As in his previous books, Bob Harris' Guide to Stained Concrete Interior Floors and Bob Harris' Guide to Stamped Concrete, Harris shares his expertise through tips and tricks, A to Z instruction, and practical techniques for both beginning and seasoned contractors. He provides a solid foundation for producing quality work and helps contractors avoid common mistakes and problems.

Contents

• Choosing One System Over Another
• Finish and Texture Options
• Establishing Expectations with the Builder, Architect, and Owner
• Budget Analysis
• Writing a Fair Contract
• The Importance of Safety
• Site Conditions Affecting the Installation of Decorative Overlays
• Dealing with Moisture-Vapor Transmission
• Surface Preparation: Obtaining the Right Profile
• Repairing Cracks
• Estimating Materials
• Following the Technical Data Sheets
• Photo Gallery
• Setting Up a Mixing Station
• Underlayments
• Self-Leveling Overlays
• Spray-Down Systems
• Microtoppings
• Stamped Overlays
• Vertical Stamped Overlays
• Adding Excitement with Color
• Sealing and Protecting Your Work
• Tools, Equipment, and Supplies
• Tips for Marketing Decorative Overlays
• Glossary
• Resources

134 Pages, 8-1/2" x 11" Soft-cover

ISBN: 0-9747737-2-27