Concrete offers durability and affordability for both exterior and interior hard surfaces and with different concrete finishes it can also turn into attractive surfaces that impart natural beauty. Decorative concrete finishes can range from simple stained concrete or exposed aggregate to elaborate stamped patterns that can imitate the appearance of natural stone slabs, brick or tile pavers or even a variety of wood. Several colouring methods can be used to make concrete more interesting and realistic.
When combined, this is when you can create the most impressive looks. One must ensure, when doing this, that colours, texture and pattern combine well. These are just some of the more often used finishes and some thoughts on how you may add them to other finishes.
Broom Finished Concrete – Probably the most commonly used finish for exterior concrete, it is achieved by running the bristles of the broom over the concrete while still in its plastic state. For a more fancy look, borders of stamped or stenciled concrete can be added or even further the borders can be done in contrasting colours.
Stained or Coloured Concrete – this is typically created using an acid-based stain that reacts chemically with the concrete to change its colour composition. The colours produced are usually rich earth tones with a marbling effect. Stained concrete will look great with various textured and patterned finishes. For example, if you have a plain coloured concrete driveway, you can saw cut or engrave patterns into it to make it more interesting.
Imprinted Concrete – Often referred to as Stamped Concrete, this finish is created by pressing rubber molds into concrete while still in its plastic state leaving a realistic texture or pattern which can resemble stone, brick, tile or wood to name a few. Borders of a different colour or texture can be added to give a real stand out look.
Concrete Stencilling – Tear resistant paper is used by way of placing them into freshly placed concrete. The concrete is then colored and the stencils removed leaving the effect of brick or tile. Contrasting colours or effects can be added also. The stencil can even be used over an existing stained or coloured floor to add more interest.
Exposed Aggregate – There are a few different techniques used to exposed the aggregates (pebbles in the concrete) in the concrete. This gives a very distinctive natural look. You can install Exposed aggregate alongside smoother concrete to give an interesting contrast or colour could be added to the concrete mix to give an exciting look.
Those are just some of the things you can do with decorative concrete finishes. The first step to designing that winning combination is to be familiar with all the different concrete finishes available. Look at pictures to see how each concrete finish looks like so you can see what you like and what will work for your project. Explore how different concrete finishes can be combined. Look at portfolios or online image galleries of professional concrete contractors to see what\’s possible.
Want to find out more about Concrete Finishes, then visit Cory Grant\’s site on how to choose the best Concrete Finishes for your needs.