Custom Scored Concrete Hides & Prevents Cracking

Learn how SUNDEK of Pennsylvania can help address existing cracks in your concrete and prevent future cracks from occurring.

Scorelines add to the beauty of a concrete surface while also preventing future cracking.

Not only is scored concrete a great way to add a pattern to your concrete surface, it also addresses the issue of cracking concrete.

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Learn more about our concrete repair services.

What does it mean to score concrete?

Scoring concrete is when a contractor cuts into the concrete to create a pattern or design.

Scoring can be completed at different stages, depending on what you’re working with.

  • Newly poured concrete can be scored before the concrete cures completely.
  • Existing concrete that’s been there for years can be scored by saw-cutting.
  • Existing concrete can also be scored in tandem with the application of a decorative coating.

What is SUNDEK of Pennsylvania’s Custom Scoreline Effect?

This technique allows us to resurface old, cracked concrete. We achieve it by doing the following:

  1. Open existing cracks with a grinder wheel.
  2. Use a grinder to create scorelines on the rest of the surface, creating a pattern in the process.
  3. Fill scored cracks with sealant. This step prevents water and debris from getting inside. It also helps to visually blend the old and new scorelines, creating a nice pattern.
  4. Apply a finishing coat. Coats are available in a variety of colors.

By incorporating the scorelines into the design, we can hide existing cracks. This technique allows us to work with cracks instead of against them. Since cracking is inevitable, it’s a fantastic way to prevent future cracking.

Can decorative applications be added during the scoreline process?

Yes! If you want to do more than just add scorelines, you can also add a decorative coat. At SUNDEK of Pennsylvania, we specialize in adding Classic Texture, our knockdown texture, and then adding scorelines to complete the design.

Scored concrete by SUNDEK of Pennsylvania

Here is a small sampling of some projects we’ve worked on in the Pennsylvania area.

For a pool deck in Phoenixville, PA, we used Classic Texture to resurface the concrete then added the Custom Scoreline technique to elevate the design.
For a backyard pool deck in King of Prussia, PA, we resurfaced the deck using Classic Texture in Kahlua. To disguise cracking, we incorporated the Custom Scoreline effect.
This set of before-and-after photos of a Pennsylvania patio shows how we can use the Custom Scoreline technique to disguise cracking on concrete surfaces.
Carefully placed scorelines combined with the texture of the surface create an eye-catching patio for this backyard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the questions we get most often about scored concrete. If your question isn't answered here, contact us!

How much does it cost to get scored concrete?

Scored concrete is typically less expensive than other forms of decorative concrete. It requires less labor and fewer materials. However, finding out exactly how much your project will cost depends on several factors specific to the project such as:

  • Size of your surface
  • Desired design
  • Condition of existing concrete

Because there are so many variables, it’s best to contact us. We can give you a free quote after assessing your surface.

Is scored concrete durable?

Scored concrete is just as durable as any other decorative concrete surface. Scoring is shallow and doesn’t weaken the strength of the coating. A scored concrete surface can last for decades when maintained properly.

How do you maintain scored concrete?

A scored concrete surface should be maintained similar to any other decorative concrete surface (sweep or hose off debris, address stains when necessary, etc.). It should be sealed and then resealed every few years, depending on how it's used.

Learn more about maintenance.

Should scored concrete be sealed?

Yes, just like any concrete surface, scored concrete should be sealed to protect it from stains and other damage. Proper sealing will make it easier to brush or wash out dirt or debris from scorelines. Learn more about sealers.

Does scoring concrete increase the risk of cracks?

No. When done properly, scorelines are shallow and don’t affect the integrity of the surface. SUNDEK of Pennsylvania even uses custom scorelines to disguise current cracking and minimize future cracking.

Is scored concrete slippery?

Scored concrete isn’t any more slippery than another type of decorative concrete surface. A reputable contractor will ensure that the surface is textured in a way that reduces the slipperiness or include additives that add a grit to the surface that prevents it from getting slick when wet.

Concrete scoring contractors near me

If you’re looking for a contractor who can score concrete in your area, we’d love to help!

At SUNDEK of PA, we’ve been installing high-quality concrete coatings for clients in Philadelphia, Doylestown, West Chester, Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, and the surrounding areas for more than two decades.

Call us: (888) 491-2200

Email us: [email protected]

Or fill out the form on this page

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