Share
Hi @alwaysasking,
The Dulux Avista Concrete Resurfacing System is primarily marketed for professional use. This is because proper preparation, mixing, application, and finishing require experience to ensure good adhesion, even coverage, and a durable result. The process involves things like acid etching, high-pressure cleaning, precise mixing ratios, primer application, and sometimes spray equipment, all of which can be tricky to get right without prior experience.
For a D.I.Y. project, it’s not that it’s impossible, but there are risks. Mistakes during preparation or application can lead to poor adhesion, uneven finish, cracking, or premature wear. If you’re comfortable following the detailed instructions carefully, have the right tools (broom, roller, trowel or sprayer, mechanical mixer, pressure washer), and understand that some trial and error may occur, it can be attempted. Otherwise, for a high-traffic area like a driveway, hiring a professional applicator is usually recommended to ensure the resurfacing lasts and performs as intended.
Sealing or painting a driveway is a relatively easy D.I.Y. job, where you clean, repair minor cracks, and apply sealer. Mistakes are minor and easy to fix.
Resurfacing is far more complex and usually best left to professionals. It requires thorough surface prep, precise mixing, and careful application. Mistakes can cause adhesion failure, cracking, or uneven surfaces that are hard to repair.
Have you considered painting the driveway, which is a D.I.Y. job?
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
Thanks Mitchell.
Reason for post is that I have looked around a lot, have found various products and a lot of conflicting advice. Even apply sealer then thin Rapid Set concrete.
Pics of drive attached. Rough aggregate about 30 yrs old. In sound shape except for a crack only a few mils wide. I have repaired this with Earl's as per a Bunnings forum post.
I have cleaned with chlorine and pressure washed it.
I have not considered painting as yet because we wanted to paint the garage but got mixed messages about what type and longevity.
After seeing the pics do think painting is our only option and if so what types can we get ?
Ideally we want a smooth surface.
Sorry this is long but we do not want to go to next step and get it wrong.
Your input will be most appreciated.
.
I can see the rough aggregate in your photos @alwaysasking. That texture is going to be tricky to smooth out. Painting, unfortunately, won’t give you a smooth surface; it’ll just coat the existing texture.
I understand why you’re considering resurfacing, as that’s really the only way to achieve a smooth finish. You could attempt it yourself if you carefully follow the product instructions, but achieving a truly smooth surface requires some skill with troweling. This is where a tradesperson can be really helpful. They’ll have the larger floats and trowels needed to level and smooth the area properly. As a D.I.Y. project, you might find it challenging, especially across a large driveway, to get a consistent, smooth finish.
I'd recommend getting a few quotes to gauge the cost of a professional finish.
Mitchell
Hello @alwaysasking
I'm afraid the Dunlop Concrete Resurfacer Mortar is not applicable for your project. As stated in the data sheet, typical installation thickness is anywhere between .08 and 3mm. It will therefore not be strong enough for vehicular traffic.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Hi @alwaysasking,
For painting a concrete driveway, a good option is Dulux Concrete & Paving Paint. It’s specifically formulated for exterior concrete surfaces and is durable enough to handle foot and vehicle traffic when applied correctly.
This type of paint provides a long-lasting finish, is weather-resistant, and comes in a range of colours.
Mitchell
