One of the building materials that is widely used across the globe is concrete. There are many types of concrete used for different purposes. One subset is referred to as decorative concrete.
Decorative and architectural concrete refers to a type of building material that combines both structural and aesthetic properties. This is a material that was created to be visible. Whether used to create vast expenses or details that are minute and delicate, concrete permanently captures the desired look.
To achieve a decorative appearance, the concrete must typically be altered in some way. Whether it’s through the use of unique forms, ingredients or finishing techniques, the range of possible effects is nearly limitless.
There are many options when it comes to selecting a building material for a project. Pavers, crushed stone, concrete and asphalt can all be used to construct a driveway. Typically, patios are constructed of wood, concrete, brick pavers, and hand-laid stone. Carpet, wood, laminate, vinyl, or concrete can be used to cover the floor. Formica, marble, stainless steel and Corian, or concrete may be used for countertops or bar tops.
The common option in all of these projects is concrete. It can be used to construct almost anything. Due to its adaptability and durability, it is excellent in almost every project. It makes no difference whether the space is outdoors or indoors; one can make it look elegant or go for a more rustic look. Walls, floors, driveways, concrete can do it all. Concrete is capable of completing any task! However, do not believe that this versatile building material is grey, plain boring and cold. Numerous decorative treatments enable concrete aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.
Decorative concrete has distinct colours that can be achieved in a variety of ways.
The products, which contain integral colouring, are mixed with the ready to mix concrete at a plant. These are available in forms such as liquid, dry and granular forms.
The full-depth, rich colour is achieved by incorporating colouring throughout the concrete. By substituting white cement for grey portland cement, additional colour options are possible. Topically applied dry-shake colour hardeners colour the top three-quarters of an inch of freshly placed concrete.
The dry-shake method has several advantages, including improved finishing, an infinite colour palette, and a hard, abrasion-resistant surface. Concrete can be transformed into a long-lasting piece of art using reactive and passive stains. Staining existing concrete creates a realistic, variegated, and mottled appearance that is frequently the most requested and desired design option by customers. When stained, floors produce distinct patterns which make them stand out. The majority of stains are suitable for use on old or new and even coloured or just plain surfaces.
When expensed over the floor’s life, these concrete floors outperform wooden, quarry tiles or ceramic floors. Concrete can be a great and cost-effective option for showing off intricate designs; when this is accounted for, it is relatively less expensive than slate or marble.
Installed by a skilled concrete craftsman, such concrete offers an infinite colour palette. Each unique application can be customized according to a homeowner’s taste and specifications.
Concrete is one of the most malleable and enduring materials on the planet when installed properly. When properly cared for, decorative concrete can last for decades.
Decorative concrete is an excellent alternative to carpeting for those with respiratory conditions or allergies and also has a high thermal mass making it the ideal choice for floor heating. Be it slab based or cement-based, and they make a great choice for optimal heating.