When doing a renovation project or redesigning your backyard you might want to pour a new layer of concrete on top of an existing concrete layer.
Just like many other people, you may think that you know all about concrete and how it works, but you are mistaken as there is a lot to consider before making such decisions.
Nowadays there are many new forms of concrete such as shotcrete. In this method, the mixture of concrete is shot through a spray hose onto the desired location.
Also Read: How Is Shotcrete A More Sustainable And Cost-Friendly Method?
So now before you plan to apply a new layer of concrete on top of the old layer you will have to take into account a lot of things. Hence it is better to hire a professional concrete contractor who can help you throughout the process.
You can put a new layer of concrete over an existing one but unresolved issues with your old layer of concrete such as first heaves, or cracks will come over to your new layer of concrete if they are not handled properly.
If you’re not careful, then pouring a new layer of concrete on top of the old layer will be more of a headache than you might have anticipated.
Before you make a decision you must know what you are doing, so in this blog post, we will explain in detail if you can put new concrete over old concrete.
Can You Put New Concrete Over Old Concrete?
There are some situations in which you can put concrete over an existing layer and then there are some cases in which you can’t.
Here are some situations in which you can not put a new layer of concrete on top of an old layer.
- If there are tree roots in the way of moving or lifting the old layer of concrete.
- If the old concrete is uneven or has substantial crakes over it.
- If there is a staircase or door that might get in the way of adding a few inches of cement.
In each of the above situations, you will first have to remove the old layer of concrete and resolve the existing problem such as fixing the cracks. Only then should you then apply a new layer of concrete.
But, here are some scenarios in which you can put new concrete over the old layer.
- If you are renovating a basketball court or driveway.
- If you are making a pathway to your house.
In the aforementioned instances, you can put a new layer of concrete over the old layer but still, you will have to closely analyze the old layer for problems.
Cons Of Putting New Concrete Over Old Concrete
When pouring new concrete over your old concrete you’ll want to know the risks you will be taking by doing so.
Just like everything else pouring new concrete over an old layer has its pros and cons, you should consider these before making a decision.
Short Lifespan
Generally most concrete lasts for many years and in some situations, you may never have to face any problems with your concrete.
But if you pour your concrete over an existing layer it might end up reducing the lifespan of your concrete especially if there are any underlying problems with the older layer.
If you pour the new concrete over the existing layer of concrete then you are risking the chance of getting deep potholes. The existing condition of the old layer will determine the condition of the new concrete.
So it is better to tear up the old layer and then replace it with a new layer of concrete. This way you will not only save yourself from a lot of problems but also maximize the lifespan of your new concrete.
Maintenance
Another con of pouring new concrete over old concrete is that it will eliminate the low maintenance that concrete is often admired for.
Because when new concrete is layered upon old concrete it will require a lot of maintenance to keep it in good condition.
For instance, when you pour the new concrete over the old concrete you will have a greater chance of frost heaves therefore you will have to regularly maintain the new layer of concrete to eliminate this existing issue.
So, to avoid these situations, you should hire a professional concrete contractor, they have trained workers who can help you make the best decision.
About SprayForce Concrete
SprayForce Concrete is a reliable shotcrete contractor that not only offers its services in Calgary but also in other surrounding areas such as Airdrie, Banff, Canmore, Chestermere, Cochrane, and the surrounding area, as well as Edmonton, Lethbridge, and Saskatoon. We are COR certified and a BBB – A+ accredited business. Our ACI – certified nozzleman have over ten years of experience providing complete shotcrete services. Call us today to learn more about our services.