Can I Put New Concrete on Top of Old Concrete?
You can pour new concrete over old in Kansas City, but only if the base is sound and properly prepared. Bonding, drainage, and thickness are critical to avoid delamination or cracking from Kansas City’s freeze–thaw cycles. Here’s how explore this to do it right.


When Overlaying Works
Solid foundation: The old slab must be stable, with no major heaving or crumbling. Thickness: Add at least 2 inches of new concrete to maintain structural integrity. Proper bonding: Use bonding adhesive or mechanical roughening to ensure the layers act together.
Prep Steps That Make It Last
Clean thoroughly: Remove dirt, grease, paint, and sealers. Roughen the surface: Shot blast or grind to open pores and improve bond. Apply bonding agent: Brush or roll on bonding adhesive rated for old-to-new concrete. Reinforce if needed: Place welded wire mesh or rebar to reduce cracking.
KC Weather Considerations
Expansion and contraction from Kansas City’s seasonal changes demand proper jointing. Sawcut or tool control go here joints 24–36× slab thickness (in inches) and isolate adjoining structures to manage movement.
When Not to Overlay
If the old concrete is cracked through, settled, or flaking, overlaying won’t last. Replacement with a new base is the only long-term fix in those cases.
Bottom Line
Yes, new concrete can go over old in Kansas City—with bonding, thickness, and prep done right. A detailed surface prep plan ensures the new layer adheres and performs like a single, durable slab.