Decorative concrete is becoming popular among many home designers, owners and builders these days. It\’s not at all that surprising, knowing that it provides more benefits than its counterparts. What used to look like gray, plain and boring construction material now comes with a new look that\’s capable of turning heads. But despite of such face lift, the affordability, flexibility and durability concrete always had is never lost in the transformation.
It may be used outdoors on patios, driveways, garages, entryways, pool decks, gardens, etc. It\’s also possible to be used indoors, replacing the usual flooring materials such as wood, vinyl, tiles and carpet. It\’s so flexible that, other than being used on floors and walls, it can be also used to grace kitchen countertops and even sinks.
How it\’s given a new look is by means of several different processes or treatments used on the material. It can be colored or textured to resemble stone, bricks, slate and other similar and more expensive flooring or walling materials. Making it look like things that are commonly seen in nature is also possible, such as fossils, shells, sand, wood, etc. The list of surfaces or finishes to choose from is practically endless, particularly when different processes are combined.
Adding texture or impression on the surface can be done through stamping. When it comes to colors, dyeing is usually done. Ink is mixed with solvents like lacquer, alcohol, acetone and thinner. To toughen up the color and make it fade-proof when exposed to the UV rays of the sun, the ink may be mixed with UV inhibiting solutions.
Another means of adding color to the surface is acid staining. This method doesn\’t actually add color to it. What takes place is a chemical reaction between the surface and acid which produces such effect. But there is another way of coloring this building material, and that\’s by means of water-based staining. Many other processing or treatments are around, enabling the manufacturers to come up with unique and eye-catching designs – including custom made ones.
When you go for this walling or flooring material, there are numerous benefits to enjoy. There\’s no denying the durability of concrete. It\’s for this exact reason why many builders go for it. This product, although boasting a different look, still possesses this kind of durability. It can withstand even harsh weather conditions, easily outlasting other materials usually employed.
Another thing that makes it advantageous is the cheap price tag is has. If you\’re planning on renovating your home but under a certain budget, choosing this saves you from overshooting that budget you set. What\’s adding to the money-saving feature is the minimal maintenance required. Additionally, unlike wood or carpet, it\’s resistant to mold, dust and other allergens so you can provide a safe and healthy environment for your loved ones.
Certainly, decorative concrete won\’t look boring and cheap when laid out. It looks just as tasteful and striking as counterparts that come with steeper price tags. Other than looking great, it\’s also functional in many different settings. Be it in commercial, domestic, indoor or outdoor settings, this building material lets you enjoy a walling and flooring solution that\’s affordable, durable, functional and eye-catching.
Elite Concrete has won back to back HomeStars awards in 2008 and 2009 for their beautiful stamped concrete work. Servicing Toronto, GTA, Markham and Woodbridge – Elite Concrete is there for all your concrete contracting work.