How do you redo an old concrete deck without tearing it out?
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We have a "slab" of concrete that my parents had added to the house some 40 years ago. It needs spray washing at least twice a year and is pock marked in most used areas. ( like out the back door and where we enter the house. We don't want to remove it just make it look usable. It is about 30 x10 ft. Can we put wood on top of the concrete or something like that. It is in full sun and gets so hot I can't put flowers,herbs, plants or much of anything out there.
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If it's still flat, I built a wood deck over ours. Laid out 2x4s, attaced to concrete, then added decking. It did raise it up about 5 1/4".
Deck over concrete
https://extremehowto.com/diy-steps-for-building-a-deck-over-a-patio-slab-the-low-down-on-low-decks/
https://www.familyhandyman.com/patio/how-to-build-a-deck-over-a-concrete-patio/
https://www.instructables.com/id/Building-a-wooden-deck-over-a-concrete-one/
You can also resurface the concrete
https://www.quikrete.com/athome/video-resurfacing-concrete-slabs.asp
https://www.sakrete.com/projects/resurface-old-worn-or-damaged-concrete
You, Might try concrete pavers set on the pad over a base of 1/2 inch of stone dust. Pick your pattern lay pattern when done use polymeric sand to lock in the stones. may want to build a framed edge to keep things tight together.
Any of the above will work. However, resurfacing the concrete will be the least expensive. I'm thinking that the slab was never - or hasn't recently been sealed. That would be the reason for the constant washing and, ultimately, the wear that has broken down the surface. If you decide to resurface it, yourself, make sure you have the right tools and products for the job. You can even color the resurfacing material if you like - or stain it (consider a pattern as well) before you seal it. This will give the patio a whole new look and the home extra value. Also, consider adding an awning or arbor over the patio. It will allow you to use the space for plants and seating. Full sun is nice but it can be controlled and manipulated to your benefit.