According to flooring and wall solutions specialist and
Honestone director Rick Hendriks, the cost effective, smooth, aesthetic and adaptable nature of cement overlays should not be overlooked.
Not so popular in the Australian market, cement overlays are made by combining cement, sand and polymer resins. Originally created for fixing or resurfacing concrete that has pitted, spalled or worn out, cement overlays are now being used as a cutting edge architectural finish regarded on par with other traditional hard floor surfaces such as tile, stone, terrazzo, timber and polished concrete.
Mr Hendriks explains that modern overlay systems are highly engineered products capable of being installed as thin as a tile or even a credit card to internal or external areas for both residential and high traffic commercial spaces.
Enumerating the benefits of using a cement overlay, Mr Hendriks said that they are cost-effective, easy to clean, healthier and versatile in range.
However, cement overlays require specialised tools, skills and organisation for installation, and are not suitable as a DIY project. These floors require the substrate to be prepared carefully.
Pre-approved samples can be created for the floor to give a reasonable indication of the expected finish.
Mr Hendriks adds that overlays are not mass produced in a factory but are hand laid typically on a construction site, which is also its appeal, creating an organic, individual and sustainable flooring solution.
Key advantages of cement overlays:
- Cheaper to resurface an existing concrete floor than to replace with a new slab
- Creates a smooth, seamless floor, which is easy to clean
- Levels uneven or rough floors
- Absence of dirty grout lines or fibre to house dust mites ensures a healthy environment
- Fits in to any décor due to the endless colours available
- Helps create unique floors
