Frequently Asked Questions

The architectural concrete overlay and surface restoration industry stems from the paint manufacturing and basic concrete restoration trades. Nearly 30 years ago, paint resins (known as acrylics and/or vinyls) and cements began to be blended to create more durable solutions for basic concrete repair.

It was found that with the addition of a basic paint resin, certain performance characteristics were mildly increased in repair cement mortars and so began the concrete overlay and resurfacing industry.

It wasn't long before more innovative companies began to experiment with slightly improved aesthetic application techniques. Materials were applied with masonry type brushes to create subtle swirl and fan patterns. Colors were then added to enhance the look from dull gray colors. That was followed by the use of drywall texture guns to create sprayed/bubble type textures, along with troweled finishes and the now popular thin stamped overlayments.

What if the concrete surface is old and worn?

Decorative finishes can be applied on most concrete surfaces, from a brand new slab to one that is old, or may have been covered by linoleum, carpet, or hardwood. In certain situations, an overlay may be utilized to smooth out a surface, or create a new "canvas" with which to work. ACC strives to utilize the best products in the industry. Our suppliers have led the polymer cement overlay industry with the most advanced technology in polymer resin based cement modifications. This cement overlay, which is composed of Portland cement, binds to existing concrete to create a permanent surface.

Polymer cement overlays are economical because they provide long-term, durable renovation without the need for costly and continuous repairs typically associated with deteriorating concrete surfaces. It's fixed once, permanently, and beautifully, with a minimal amount of time lost compared to traditional renovation projects.

What is Concrete Staining?

Our stains are engineered and formulated to add permanent color to uncolored concrete and polymer modified concrete overlays. Stained concrete often has variegated, uneven, and translucent coloring effects that resemble the look of natural stones. Most of the stains ACC makes use of provide neutral, earth-tone shades. Various techniques and colors can be custom matched to your home or business to create a look that is uniquely yours.

Where can Concrete Staining be utilized?

Concrete Staining can be utilized on most concrete surfaces. Stained concrete is not intended to cover permanent blemishes in a surface; remember, it is staining, not painting! Kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, basements, exercise/game rooms, patios, and business are ideal areas that benefit from the beauty of Concrete Staining. Floors become alive with durable, yet imaginative, colors and patterns.

Due to the chemical reaction caused by our stains, the coloring becomes a permanent part of the concrete and only wears as the surface does. Depending on the location and function of the area stained, ACC uses a variety of sealers including epoxies, urethanes, and acrylics, ranging from matte to high-gloss finishes.

What are the benefits of Concrete Staining?

Concrete floors absorb and radiate heat, cutting down on heating and cooling bills. Concrete Staining draws from the natural beauty of concrete to create a surface that is free from grout, unlike tiled floors, does not trap allergens, like carpet, and is extremely durable, unlike hardwood floors.

How do I take care of my Stained Concrete floor?

A standard component of our service is to apply high traffic wax upon completion of interior jobs. The wax will provide added traction and a "sacrificial layer" to protect the floor from everyday wear and tear. The wax can be layered to create a high shine and should be reapplied every few months, depending on your preference and wear.

Typical maintenance consists of simply mopping the floors. And smile, there is no grout to clean and scrub!!