Concrete has long been used for foundations of buildings, for sidewalks, driveways, playgrounds and a host of other building parts. However, it has always been the same old thing – gray, drab and boring.
But not any more! You wouldn’t recognize concrete – literally. There are stunning colors, textures and so much more. One of the great things about the “new” concrete is that there are so many innovative ways to apply, pour and install it that you don’t even have to tear out the old concrete that you are upgrading. In the past you would have to tear out the old concrete which is both costly, time consuming and extremely difficult. The new concrete has much better options.
There are very durable coatings that can be less than an inch, in fact, down to less than ¼ inch, and can be applied right on top of the original concrete. Many of the decorative concrete applications will keep the same texture of the original concrete while changing color and sheen. Some overlays simply add color; others totally change the concrete so that it looks as though it is brand new.
One innovative and beautiful type of decorative concrete is a spray top mixed with polymers and applied with a special paint gun. This is a product that is not meant to change the existing surface texture; however, it will resurface the concrete so that if it is faded, discolored or stained it will look new. This type of concrete is also used to spray a thin layer over stamped concrete that has discolored over the years. Instead of taking the concrete out, the spray – which can be done in any color – brings out the stamps and all their detail, making them look new again. The stamps are not changed at all, so their unique pattern is preserved, while making the new color look more uniform.
This is just one of the types of decorative cement that are being used today to enhance all areas of homes and other buildings, as well as landscaping, parks, town squares and other areas.
If you are considering or involved in any type of building project that involves the use of concrete, consider using some form of decorative concrete for its durability, cost-effectiveness and long lasting beauty.
