Introduction to decorative concrete
Decorative concrete is often referred to as concrete, can be described simply as a technology that is changing, what would have been simple, concrete gray, to be more aesthetically pleasing. Decorative Concrete looks and include many different techniques. Staining techniques can be simple, such as acid stains, acrylic stains, dyes, colored concrete and integral (also known as full-color, mixed in the cement beforemerged). It can also special treatments, such as cutting, grooving, chiseling and polishing that can change the texture of the surface. Many times, incorporates several decorative concrete techniques to adapt the dish really.
Colored concrete
Probably one of the most user-friendly design techniques to the level of processing to be more specific staining, particularly for indoor applications. This technique includes a sheet of hardened concrete and literallyStaining by a different color (or colors). There are two main types of concrete stain. The most common type of concrete stain is an acid stain. And 'well-known for making bold colors. The acid reacts with concrete and takes his own life. The result is a patchy staining, similar to grain leather. It 's probably one of the most difficult spots to work, it requires great caution in the application, because you are working with the acid, after all. This patch does not cover defects inConcrete. On the contrary, probably to show defects, even those who do not see where the concrete was in its natural state. However, this character is that the acid stain is a part of the charm of the finished product of a process of acid stain. A water-based acrylic concrete stain and concrete stain to create a more coherent than acid stains. These points have a thin milky consistency, so that they penetrate into the pores of the concrete, what to paint from a concrete,that can come apart, simply because the surface paint. Since there is no chemical reaction between the stain and the concrete, is more like a dye.
There is a better alternative to acid for concrete slabs that have cosmetic defects, because the coverage is fairly evenly colored. However, there is still a semi-transparent stain, so it is not enough to hide soil and other defects in concrete. A water-based stains are also commonly known as staining concrete. It 'is often usedEmphasis of the work of an acid stain job, some areas of the concrete by a different color. Acrylic stains offer a wide range of deep colors and rich with a much wider selection as an acid stain offers. To generate acid during a reaction with the stain of color left in concrete, acrylic paints are generally the same in the bottle, as it appears on the concrete. This makes the prediction of the results much easier. It also allows for easy on site mixing other colors correspond toround. Completed after the stain is of order, it is advisable to put a protective film on the surface. This will prevent fading and wear. For external applications, a concrete sealer is recommended. A sealant or xylene solvent based sealant leaves a permanent, semi-gloss as an insulating coat water-based leave a matte finish. For indoor applications it is generally recommended, wax application, similar to what is used on a factory floor. In summary, the staining is usually a goodOption if you have a concrete slab at this stage that you want to add color. The spots do not hide defects in the concrete, does not change the texture of the concrete. Just add a semi-transparent, semi-permanent color. There are many tools and techniques to extend the design possibilities when you stain the concrete. For example, there are models on the market that allow for the design of color. Cracks are also often used to add a model or drawing in the concrete.
Spotcan also be added in collaboration with accent color printed concrete. In addition, there are many ways to apply stain to get a different look. The advantages of colored concrete. Of course, the biggest advantage of the look colored concrete. The color of the concrete allows for a functional element into a design element. Furthermore, with the wide range of colors and designs that you can use color to compliment almost any design theme. Another advantage of colored concretethat it is a semi-permanent and permanent option. Because you're simply changing the color of cement, without his physical strength, your concrete is colored the life of a boring, flat white (the number of concrete is designed to last more than 50 years!). In addition, because the color in the concrete reality creeps over to the next level as the paint does not flake like paint tents. Stain can also be described as an "green" renovation, since it can easilytransform what you already have, which means having to begin less waste in our landfills from cases before. Also, do not require additional material other than color sealants or waxes, ready for flooring. Colored concrete is easy to use as a concrete slab normal, if not easy to manage, because the seal prevents dirt and rinses easily. You may request to hold a new coat of sealer or wax to the finish line at times. A simple broom or hose is often sufficient to clean the surface.Finally, another benefit of colored concrete, which is relatively inexpensive compared to other options, during which their product unique.
Stamped concrete
Stamped concrete is another common technique of decorative concrete. It covers literally stamped pattern and / or the structure of freshly laid concrete. That said, requires stamped concrete, new concrete is poured. This does not mean that you can not add a printed pattern or texture to your patio existingonly need a few intermediate steps. If you already have a stamped concrete foundation that a pattern or texture to have to add, requires the application of a layer of cement or a mixture of overlapping. Of course, concrete is preferable because it is one of the hardest materials in the world, but the effective increase in a minimum of two inches in height must. There is another product available that often overlap as a mix that no more than three eighths of an inch thick can be applied. However, this plastic-cementPolymer has a shorter lifespan than non-specific. There are limits to the terrace capping with concrete or stacked. If you tore your terrace or structurally unsound mind, it is risky to put any coating on them, because the coating is likely to crack and shift as well. Capping concrete overlay or actually hide blemishes and small errors in the concrete, though. The process involves pouring the concrete just as you would on normal flatwork. The area is framed up,Concrete reinforced with steel and polished. To stamp the concrete must be dry enough to not muddy, but still wet enough to hold an impression. The timing is perhaps one of the most difficult aspects of punching. At this point, the large stamp concrete, beaten many times with an instrument called a tamper. Used some type of release of the product so that the stamps to hang. Other special tools, including "Flippo" stamps, Malta roles, etc. are used for the area are perfect. TheConcrete form of color can be achieved in many different ways. Some of the dyes for use with stamped concrete is embedded / integrated color, antique color release, color hardener and sealant colors. Full color, also known as full-color, color, mixed with the cement before it is paid. Integral Colors are available in both liquid and powder form.
The advantage of the built-in color, is that the color is all the way through the concrete, soif the concrete is always chipped or scarred, the color is uniform across the plate. The colors are usually released antiquing paint powder applied to the surface before crushing occurs. Its functional aspect is that it keeps the stamps from sticking to the concrete. His appearance, that if the excess powder is separated off, they leave behind great accent color in the grooves and crevices. To release some colors are available in liquid form. Color hardener are appliedThe concrete surface. They are used to add color to the concrete when poured. Because they have a high cement content and PSI, and are recommended in climates that do not change quickly, because color hardener can be what we call effect "popcorn", where small circles minted pop from the surface of the concrete. Colour Hardeners are usually a powder and used in a variety of colors. Sealants are colorful as you think, are hunters who have a clearHue are added in some manufacturers make sealants colored, or you can just do, they usually go a good way, if you want to mix colors or play with the transparency. But before doing this, you need to know what kind of insulation you have and what kind of product color would be mixed with it. Colored sealants are available in a variety of colors, especially if you're in manufacturing alone.
Most of the time, contractors use a variety of colorsTechniques to achieve your look. Contractors may also be the technology that is more familiar, so that the others behind. One thing is clear: Make sure your contractor quiz on staining techniques that they use to ensure that the information necessary to correctly choose the colors are given. In addition, make sure that he / she is not to sell the staining techniques that may not be suitable for your climate. Advantages of stamped concrete. For the sake of accuracy, this paragraphare not considered all the overlapping products because these products do not carry all the same advantages that concrete does. Stamped concrete, if it is true, concrete, often brings with it many advantages. First, it is known for its durability and longevity, at least it's real! Because it is so stable that it can also be described as an ecological choice, since it must be replaced in the near future, which means more and less material to produceMaterials end up in landfills. It 'also easy to maintain. The seal allows for easy cleaning or sweeping as hot flashes. Occasionally it is necessary to seal the surface, which is a simple spray or roll-on process of a topic. Finally, stamped concrete is aesthetically pleasing. And 'fully customizable with a variety of stamp patterns and color combinations. And when you consider how long it will take and how easy it is to get, is a cost for the long termNice finish.
Scored Concrete
Scored Concrete is a good way to give new and existing pours and pours a fresh appearance. Concrete is basically a cut score a shallow cut in the concrete. These cuts can be used to create the illusion of stone or tiles or to "draw" their own logos or reason to the concrete. As these lines are actually cut into the concrete, that are as durable as the plate itself, unless covered. The rating is often combined with colored or stained concreteaccentuate the texture of the surface. It can also be applied to concrete, to name just a touch of decorative design on a disc otherwise boring. Concrete can be made with many different tools, but the most commonly used tools, saws, grinders and concrete. Many times a diamond wheel is used. For a rustic look or rough, carves lines is a good way, although it may be more laborious and tedious. Benefits obtained in concrete. Since the score may be a way to add decorative elementsa plate without tearing the record and must begin to cover the plate or with other products, is a very convenient and environmentally friendly approach to decorative concrete. In addition, the plate is as durable as it is, which means that there is little or no maintenance. Maintenance is easy to clean, so simple as a brush or rinse. If the sealed concrete achievements, may require periodic resealing. Finally, the biggest advantage of concrete is reached, the fullPersonalized.
Polished concrete
Polished concrete as it seems, a slab of cement that is until you get a glossy finish is shiny. This smooth, polished floors, if done properly, do not need any wax or sealant, making it a good option for storage, shops, etc. But, homeowners quickly learn that this technique can be used for an extension pavement maintenance. The process is similar, in theory, the sanding wood. It begins with a rough pad andgrind into the concrete. Then you switch to the pads soft and smooth, step by step to the finished product is a shiny, smooth floor. In general, it will be exposed to a total, making it a clean look. Polished concrete can be colored for a few additional colors. Or you can pay in front of the integral color, color to be used in addition. Special and expensive tools and materials are often required to obtain a glossy surface. The advantages of polished concrete. Polished concrete is very resistant, becauseConcrete is one of the most durable materials known to man. It 'also very low maintenance, like wax or sealant may not be necessary. Sometimes, when the soil loses its luster, it may be necessary to re-polish the floor and repeat the final stages of polishing. Polished concrete is also a function of great design, because it's unique and individual. Colors can be added for a different look, and even special units can be added to the units that are exposed only because thePolishing.
Sealing Concrete
All the architectural concrete, except concrete and polished concrete should be sealed in the way periodically to maintain their beauty and durability. This process can be outsourced to a specific company, or it can be a great do-it-yourself project. The process is usually very simple and requires a spray-on or roll-on applications. Some hunters are also mop-on. The most important aspect of the new closure is a courtyard to know what the original seal coatit is not. If you choose the wrong sealant, you may end up calling with a huge mess, time and money for repairs will be. The best way is to contact your patio to know who sealed the first time, what kind of insulation should you use for your decorative concrete shroud. Sealing of concrete makes it stain resistant and fade resistant. This is a protective layer that is usually a little 'gloss on the surface, so the diversity of colors of decorative concrete used, regardless of the technology. ManySometimes, just sealed wet concrete can be described as a condition for the concrete aspect. Many times an older patio can be closed in order to make it look like new. Concrete can be easy to maintain for a more modern look, and is resistant to stains are sealed. Sealing of concrete is not of any weaknesses in the existing pot. Spots will be reinforced by sealing, and scratches or cracks will be covered only with a clear varnish. Colored sealants, as explained above, can be used toAdd a little 'color to a dish, if it is simple or decorated.
Concrete compared to other flooring
Tiles. The tiles can be used in a variety of colors and patterns, but it has such limited opportunities present themselves. Concrete offers the flexibility to choose your look, how to mix colors. Tile requires a stable surface, are set for the order, which often means, whenever you need concrete anyway. In addition it expands, the 'bricks and mortar of cement and contract at different rates, so thatsusceptible to breakage, especially outdoors. It also has leaks, it means you have to spot common. Enough said? Stone flagtone /. Similar such as tiles, natural stone slabs and usually requires a concrete base and Malta for a semi-permanent record, it comes with the same disadvantages as a means of bricks. In addition, it is up to what Mother Nature is limited, compared to pick your own colors with the concrete. If the concrete pad or malta / malta are not used,will end up with a nightmare with weird weeds among stones. That does not sound like fun! Brick. Brick asks the same questions, such as natural stone, stone slabs and tiles. > Linoleum / Vinyl. Although inexpensive and easy to care for linoleum and vinyl are not as durable as concrete, or have the appearance and "rich", which offers concrete. Wood. Although beautiful, wood is not the easiest to obtain. You can easily scratch or nick, and often requires conversion for aYears, especially if they are properly cared for. In addition, unless it is taken from managed forests can have a negative is the forest and wildlife. Mat. Carpet is the biggest drawback is that it stains easily. In addition, stain-resistant carpet is much more likely sealed, waxed or polished concrete stain. In addition, the production process is not always better for the environment, chemicals that emit at home can be harmful, and retains pollutants and allergens, causingProblems for people with respiratory problems and allergies.
