How Much Does Concrete Resurfacing Cost?

How Much Does Concrete Resurfacing Cost? Latest And Complete Price Guide

Concrete resurfacing is a clever way of beautifying old and dishevelled concrete without emptying one's pockets. It costs a lot less than demolishing the old slab and pouring a completely new one. Many find great value in resurfacing because it nearly rejuvenates driveways, patios, pool decks, walkways, and even garage floors.

In Australia, concrete resurfacing will likely cost at least $50 per square meter. The average is between $35 and $90 per square meter. Size, surface wear, finish type, and labour costs govern the gross price. For a general job, you're probably looking at somewhere between $3,000 and $4,500.

Whether it's a driveway, patio, or walkway, resurfacing improves durability, aesthetics, and functionality at a fraction of the cost of new concrete. Understanding the costs involved can help you plan your project efficiently and get the best value for your investment.

What is Concrete Resurfacing?

It means pretty much just giving an existing concrete slab a fresh face. A new layer is put over a previous slab; it can either be coloured, textured, or patterned the way you like to make it look better and last longer. The process shines when it comes to the aesthetics of the surface and durability. It settles for minor crack issues, discolourations, or general wear and tear.

Instead of ripping the old concrete out, the surface is cleaned and new concrete is poured over it. It is a facelift for your concrete! This layer can be a sprayed-on coating, an elegant stencil pattern, or a nice textured stamped pattern. Such an easier, quicker, and less disturbing way to refresh the concrete rather than replace it.

Why Choose Concrete Resurfacing?

To resurface concrete, enhance its beauty, or improve durability-they all add to the feasibility of this particular process and make it a viable option for improving safety and reducing maintenance. A new surface is consequently its most protective cover against damage inflicted on the concrete surface from water, sun, chemicals, and pedestrian traffic. Many of these coatings also have anti-slip properties, making the areas they cover safer, especially in drive and pool spaces.

Ideal for space transformation at an affordable rate and very impactful, this approach is much sought after by homeowners. For businesses, it matures in a great way because this allows them to transform how their floors look, all without having to worry about construction headache hassle.

What Gives Rise to the Cost of Concrete Resurfacing?

Each job has its specific uniqueness and needs careful assessment to come up with a final figure.

• The initial factor is the area size. Greater room sizes require greater amounts of material and time. A 20-square-meter room for $50 per square meter will run approximately $1,000. A larger space of 40 or 50 square meters can raise the price to $2,000 or even more.


• The second is the state of the original concrete. Highly cracked, pitted, or uneven surface areas require additional prep. That prep is included in the cost. Labour fees increase if contractors need to scrub, power wash, or patch the concrete before covering it with the new coat.


• The third consideration is the type of finish. The basic finishes are less expensive. Decorative finishes such as stencilling, stamping, or pebblecrete are more expensive. These processes require intricate work and additional material.


• Location is another consideration. In big cities, materials and labour may be more expensive than in country areas. Access can also make a difference. A difficult-to-reach surface requires additional time and effort to finish.

Concrete Resurfacing Material and Prices

There are various resurfacing materials. Each has dissimilar features, cost, and appearance.

• Coloured Concrete: Coloured concrete is the most elementary solution. It typically ranges from $70 to $95 per square meter. It entails misting thin, coloured coats onto current concrete. The colour becomes incorporated into the concrete and thus does not fade off as paint. Coloured concrete may be done in one shade or several shades to achieve a combined appearance.


• Stencilled Concrete: Stencilled concrete is priced between $100 and $150 per square meter. It entails applying a base coat, followed by a stencil pattern and a second colour. Design replicas include brick, tile, slate, and cobblestone patterns. This option is most desirable for patios and driveways since it makes use of hardness in conjunction with ornamentation.


• Stamped Concrete: Stamped concrete begins at $120 per square metre. It is the same as stencilling but with a pressing technique that gives real texture to the surface. Stamped concrete may resemble natural stone, wood planks, or pavers. It suits those homeowners who desire a top-of-the-line finish without paying for real materials.


• Pebblecrete: Pebblecrete, or exposed aggregate, is the most costly option. It is priced at between $140 and $165 per square metre. It consists of placing decorative stones on the surface of the concrete. After the concrete has set, the upper layer is cleaned away to leave the pebbles exposed. This is very durable, non-slip, and visually pleasing.

Labour Costs for Concrete Resurfacing

The majority of the cost of resurfacing activities is labour-intensive. Materials will typically only cover 20 per cent of the expense. The typical labour cost in Australia is around $1,600 per job. Various factors can add to this cost.

If high-pressure cleaning is needed on the surface, the cost will be higher. The same is true for slabs with deep cracks or surface damage. Such problems need to be filled, ground, or levelled before coating.

In other instances, the concrete might have sunk or become uneven. Mudjacking or slab levelling will need to be done by contractors. This contributes to the total cost.

Structural repairs like saw cutting, drilling, or forming holes also raise labour costs. All these need finesse and expertise. These charge more, but they achieve better results and more durable surfaces.

The Myth of a Flat Rate

Most homeowners anticipate a single price per square metre. However, in the real world, prices differ from project to project. Every surface has its requirements. A small patio can appear less expensive, but travel and setup time can make the cost per square metre greater.

A simple task with coloured spray could run $3,000. An equal-sized section with an intricate stencil or exposed aggregate finish could be $4,500 or higher.

Each resurfacing job contains special variables. The best way to achieve a precise quote is to call in a certified contractor and ask for a site visit.

Concrete Resurfacing vs Concrete Replacement

One of the largest benefits of resurfacing is cost savings. Concrete replacement is far more costly and labour-intensive.

Reinforcing concrete requires demolition, removal, site preparation, new pouring, and curing. It's around $60 to $85 a square metre for plain concrete. If you desire exposed aggregate, it can be as much as $150 a square metre. It takes longer, is messier, and demands more manpower.

Resurfacing avoids these steps. It takes less time, creates minimal disruption, and is easier on your budget. Most resurfacing projects can be done in one or two days. Driveways are ready for foot traffic the next day and for vehicle traffic in two days.

Choosing resurfacing over replacement can save thousands of dollars. It also allows more design flexibility through patterns, textures, and colours.

Additional Costs in Concrete Resurfacing

Other optional services can increase your end price. Sealing is one. A good sealant increases the life of the surface, guards against stains, and brings out colour. Sealers are extra but worth the investment. The majority of specialists suggest resealing every two to three years.

Adding patterns, textures, or design elements will also raise the price. These extras add visual appeal and can increase your property value. However, they require more labour and materials.

Hard-to-reach surfaces or sloping surfaces can also push the cost up. Contractors need more effort and tools on such surfaces. Both time and cost go up.

Benefits of Concrete Resurfacing

Resurfacing provides more than an improved look. It enhances safety, minimizes maintenance, and increases the value of your property. It fills cracks, smoothes bumps, and produces a clean surface.

Concrete resurfacing also lengthens the lifespan of your slab. It seals the concrete from water, oil, sun, and wear. It lasts for years with good care and resealing.

Resurfacing is perfect for upgrading the property. Thinking of maybe putting your house on sale or just sprucing it up a bit? Well, resurfacing the patio or driveway is a good bet.

Finding the Right Contractor for Concrete Resurfacing

Choosing the right pro for the job is essential. Find a crew with experience and a solid portfolio. Request pictures of previous work. Ensure they possess the proper tools and expertise to work on your design.

Do not hire a contractor by price only. Low cost might equate to substandard work or cuts. Hire one who gives value, not merely cheap.

Look for guarantees or warranties. Quality contractors provide guarantees on materials and work. A quality contractor also provides guidance on design, maintenance, and sealing.

Always request a definite quote. Ensure it specifies material, labour, sealing, and preparation work. This prevents surprises later.

Final Thoughts

Concrete resurfacing is amongst the least expensive means to restore aged concrete surfaces. It is cheaper compared to replacing concrete. It provides you with design freedom and enhances your property's attractiveness.

Standard resurfacing begins at $50 a square metre. Stylish and patterned work ranges from $100 to $150 a square metre. Fancier types such as stencilled, stamped, or pebblecrete finishes are more expensive. Overall costs vary with size and surface condition, design, and labour.

Do you want a beautiful, durable concrete surface that is friendly with your pocket? Then resurfacing is the best option for you. Select a professional contractor and get all expenses addressed ahead of time. A quality resurfacing project will last you years and improve the appearance and worth of your property.