General Masonry Construction offers expert skim coating and concrete resurfacing services to give your worn-out steps, pathways, patios, and driveways a brand-new appearance. Located in Northbrook (60062) and serving the Greater Chicago area, we specialize in high-quality cement finishes that hide cosmetic cracks and stains while adding years of life to your existing masonry.

Power washing is highly recommended for skim coating preparation and should be done whether your concrete has been painted or not.

What is Concrete Skim Coating?

Skim coating is a specialized masonry technique used to apply a thin, durable layer of cement over existing concrete structures. This process creates a fresh, smooth surface that is approximately 1/4 inch thick, effectively “waterproofing” and protecting your investment from the harsh Illinois climate.

Our professional cement skim coat is the ideal solution for:

• Concrete Steps & Walkways: Restoring curb appeal to high-traffic residential entries.

• Patios & Driveways: Covering unsightly oil stains, grout lines, and surface discoloration.

• Retaining Walls: Refreshing vertical concrete surfaces for a modern, uniform look.

Precision Surface Preparation & Epoxy Injection

A beautiful finish starts with professional preparation. At General Masonry Construction, we ensure your foundation is structurally sound before applying the topcoat.

• Power Washing: We use high-pressure cleaning to remove dirt, old paint, and organic growth, ensuring a perfect bond for the new cement.

• Structural Epoxy Injection: For cracks that are more than just cosmetic, we perform epoxy injection repair. This process fills deep crevices with high-strength resin, restoring the structural integrity of your concrete without the need for a total rebuild.

• Vinyl Patching & Leveling: We use vinyl compounds to level sunken areas and fill minor gaps, ensuring a perfectly flat surface for the final skim coat.

Slip-Resistant Finishes for Safety

Safety is a priority for all our Chicago concrete services. Once the topcoat is applied, our masons use a broom finish technique to create a textured, slip-resistant surface. This ensures your steps and walkways remain safe for your family, even during wet or icy weather.

Your skim coating application consists of two layers, the first one being about an eight of an inch thick which is known as a thin finish. You will then spray your driveway area or patio or whatever your concrete surface with a hose to create a bond with you concrete.

Why Choose General Masonry Construction for Your Project?

When it comes to concrete restoration, experience and precision are vital to ensure a long-lasting finish.

• 20+ Years of Local Experience: We have a deep understanding of how the Chicago climate and freeze-thaw cycles affect concrete and masonry. Our solutions are designed specifically for North Shore durability.

• Winner of 10 Houzz Awards: Recognized for a decade of excellence in masonry design and customer satisfaction by the leading home design platform.

• Advanced Epoxy & Vinyl Solutions: We don’t just cover up problems. We use structural epoxy injections and high-grade vinyl patching to fix the root cause of cracks before applying a skim coat.

• Custom Aesthetic Finishes: From classic broom finishes for slip-resistance to custom color pigments and acid stains, we tailor every project to match your home’s unique style.

• Fully Licensed & Insured: Your property is protected by a professional, bonded, and BBB-accredited team that stands behind every square inch of our work.

What is Concrete Skim Coating?

Skim coating is a specialized masonry technique used to apply a thin, durable layer of cement over existing concrete structures. This process creates a fresh, smooth surface that is approximately 1/4 inch thick, effectively “waterproofing” and protecting your investment from the harsh Illinois climate. 

Precision Surface Preparation & Epoxy Injection

A beautiful finish starts with professional preparation. At General Masonry Construction, we ensure your foundation is structurally sound before applying the topcoat.

• PowerWashing: High-pressure cleaning is essential to remove dirt and old paint, ensuring a perfect bond.  

• Structural Epoxy Injection: For deep cracks, we restore structural integrity with high-strength resin injections.

• Vinyl Patching & Leveling: We use vinyl compounds to level sunken areas for a perfectly flat final appearance.

Ready to renew your driveway or steps? Contact the #1 masonry experts in Northbrook for a free evaluation:

• Phone: 847-317-0668

• Email: office@generalmasonryservices.com