As far as building materials go, concrete is the most widely used material worldwide. Contrary to common belief, concrete is only sometimes regarded as attractive. Concrete is thought of as being more of an industrial substance. Nevertheless, concrete is still a preferred option because of its durability and low cost. Decorative concrete is an excellent choice if you’re interested in concrete but prefer the elegant appearance of natural stone, brick, or attractive tiles. Decorative concrete comes in a variety of colors, textures, and designs.
Different Types of Concrete
Concrete decor can be used in a variety of ways. One approach is mixing it with certain materials before pouring the concrete. Or, once typical concrete has hardened, a further decorative layer might be applied on top of it. Here are a few examples of common decorative concrete types.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped decorative concrete has endless options specifically designed to mimic the appearance of stone, slate, brick, cobblestone, and other materials. Shells or fossils can also leave their marks on stamped concrete. Concrete is sturdy and affordable; thus, you can get creative and choose a more upscale and unique style.
Concrete is stamped by pressing molds into it while it is still plastic. A variety of other techniques can also be used to create color. Everything you can imagine is built with stamped concrete inside and outdoors, including worktops, driveways, and patios. The main drawback is that the coloring will only stay vibrant for a while and ultimately start to sag and look uneven.
Colored Concrete
Color concrete designs come in various options, from bright multicolored solutions to more natural earthy tones and shades. The coloring components can either be included in the wet concrete mixture or applied directly to the surface shortly before the concrete fully sets. Furthermore, dyes can be used on any polished concrete and won’t react chemically like acidic stains.
Polished Concrete
Contractors can now create high-gloss polished concrete surfaces. This is done by adding stress to the concrete surfaces, made possible due to breakthrough technology in polishing equipment. Owners won’t ever need to apply extra coats or waxes on polished concrete to keep it looking shiny. Polished concrete flooring is becoming increasingly popular as a replacement for linoleum, granite, tile, and marble in private residences and commercial buildings, such as retail stores, office buildings, and warehouses. It gives off a decorative shine that resembles highly polished stone.
Stained Concrete
Stained concrete can immediately change the ordinary grey tone of standard concrete into various color schemes. Concrete dyed artistically can imitate multiple natural materials, including leather, wood, marble, and natural stone. The visual appeal of pathways, patios, driveways, concrete walls, pool decks, and more can all be improved with this technique.
Different Types of Finishes can be applied to Decorative concrete
Types of finishes that can be used for decorative concrete are explained in the given section:
· Troweled Finish
To get smooth and delicate walls, use trowel-finished textures. This can be accomplished both manually and mechanically. This concrete texture finish looks great on curved or three-dimensional surfaces as well as in interiors and exteriors.
· Broom Finish
As the name suggests, a broom or, in some situations, a brush can be used to achieve these finishes. The result is maximal minimalism, perfect for making statement walls and pieces of furniture.
· Exposed Aggregate Finish
The exposed aggregate finish allows a clear view of the concrete mixture’s aggregate (or other particles). Adding a glossy protective layer enhances the distinctiveness of the concrete texture and makes it difficult to ignore your surfaces.
· Salt Finish
The salt-finish concrete texture is perfect if you want to give your walls a gritty, granular appearance. It enhances the appearance of your surfaces and looks great on both interior and external surfaces.
· Stamped Concrete Finish
Pre-formed molds can create the required texture or pattern on the concrete surface. Using this method to make a highlight wall provides consistency in the design, giving your walls a refined and unique appearance.
· Swirl Finish
One of the unique forms of concrete finishes, the swirl finish is created by evenly spreading overlapping circular stains throughout the concrete surface. It gives concrete surfaces an attractive aspect that makes them popular for outdoor applications because, in contrast to smooth surface finishes, it makes surfaces safer to walk on and stand on, especially during the rainy season.
· Colored Finish
The colored concrete finish is achieved using mix-added pigments or post-cure staining to produce a pleasing appearance and blend in with the surroundings. Stains or strains can provide a colorful finish on a concrete surface. By mixing the pigments directly into the concrete mixture before pouring, bright concrete can be created.
Final Thoughts
Concrete graced with aggregates, finishes, or unusual coloring is known as decorative concrete. Aside from its aesthetic benefits, it’s also used for safety reasons by providing texture to make pathways, pool areas, and other areas that kids and the elderly visit less slippery.
Decorative concrete has recently been used for patios, flooring, benchtops, entryways, pools, and many other applications. Builders, designers, and homeowners all appreciate the importance of including it in their plans. Decorative concrete is ideal for luxury new houses, large houses, and even modest remodels.
