Decorative concrete has been around for decades but only in the last few years has it started to become recognized for what it really is and more importantly, why it is so unique. Decorative concrete has the potential to be utilized in many different settings beyond commercial construction and has the potential to improve the appearance of commercial properties while providing the finishing touch that other types of surfaces just cannot provide. There are some key reasons why decorative concrete has begun to take on a real presence in the world of commercial construction and in-home remodeling, according to Concrete Contractors.
One of the primary reasons for this is due to the fact that decorative concrete is made from materials that have a beautiful natural look to them. This includes both the color and texture of the concrete itself. For example, stained concrete will have a beautiful array of natural colors that can range from soft greens, blues, reds, and even browns depending upon the specific color that is being used. Concrete staining can be achieved by applying acrylics, dyes, or even stains of various minerals.
Stained decorative concrete has the ability to enhance the architectural lines of buildings that have straight lines but lack the graceful curves that are so common in straight-lined structures. Stained concretes can be very striking, even when they contrast with the lighter background colors that are present. One such contrasting feature is using a very bright white-colored concrete and using a black concrete along with a lighter-colored floor and wall. These can produce a striking contrast and have the potential of making a room appear very spacious.
Another reason that allows builders and contractors to make use of colored concrete is because of how easy it is to stain. Colorful concretes can be easily stained through the use of water and oil based paints. These paints offer a multitude of colors that can be combined into the perfect design to create a wide array of patterns. Stained concrete is also very easy to maintain. There is no need to use a protective coating on the surface of this type of flooring. This means that contractors can create designs that are vibrant without the possibility of them affecting the durability or the upkeep of the material.
Colorful decorative concrete can be achieved through the application of texture stamps. These stamps can be applied to a fresh concrete floor and then later cleaned with a water-based sealer. Once the texture is removed, the new textured surface can be stamped again. Texture stamps work best on stamped patterns, but they can also be used to create textures on an imprinted concrete slab.
The cost benefit of having a stamping company applies the texture on the decorative concrete instead of having the contractor do it can also save time. The stamped concrete will not have to be turned over as often as the imprinted design which means that the contractors can produce more of a high end result for their clients. This is especially true in instances where the contractors have already produced several identical designs showing many similar elements across all their other projects.
When contractors are creating patterns for new concrete floors, they should consider the possibilities of using different styles of stamped concrete. There are two types of texture: raised and flat. The flat pattern is similar to the regular brick style but there are subtle differences in the lines and patterns that provide a unique appearance. In many cases these differences are only visible to someone standing directly beneath the surface.
Contractors can purchase custom-made stamps made from aluminum or iron. Iron stamps can be bent or twisted to create complex patterns that can look remarkably realistic. The flat pattern is easier to create, but the flat design can look like a traditional patio or pool deck, making it perfect for homeowners who want to add a fresh new element to their landscape.