Decorative Concrete: Advantages And Disadvantages

A plot near any house needs qualitative changes since standard materials (usually the simplest and most affordable) have long ceased to cope with their purpose. And suppose the same asphalt or concrete does not raise questions as a solid surface underfoot, then because of the standard. In that case, it is better to forget about aesthetic pleasure, especially when unsightly cracks begin to cover the surface.

Is there an effective way out of this situation? Decorative concrete. It is just gaining popularity, but it is a truly impressive option for any yard, as you can create a real masterpiece that will take your breath away. Remarkably, there are many options for the embodiment of existing ideas – there are no obstacles, even if the flight of fantasy goes beyond the usual framework.

There are three technologies for creating decorative concrete:

  • stamped;
  • dusty;
  • stencil.

Stamped decorative concrete – Also called printed concrete, it reflects the creative process. Monolithic concrete layers that have already been laid are treated with a special mixture that hardens the mortar and gives it a certain color. After that, the surface is covered with a material that prevents the matrix from sticking to the mixture itself, and stamping is performed. After removing the matrices (it is necessary to wait more than 12 hours for drying), the surface is also coated with a protective compound, which ensures the work’s durability. Concrete In Lubbock, which is an affordable concrete contractor in Lubbock, TX specializes in stamped concrete.

Sprayed decorative concrete – a colored polymer-cement coating is applied to the surface, which not only gives the required appearance but also makes the material more reliable. Additionally, it is coated with a protective compound to preserve color and save the decorative layer from nature and damage during use.

Stencil decorative concrete – a color fixer is applied to the surface, which is rubbed in with special equipment and smoothing. After a short period (from 10 minutes), drawings are made on the concrete with laid stamps. After a day, the surface is processed – everything unnecessary (material for stamps) is removed, after which the entire area is covered with a protective varnish.

Decorative concrete is most often used to create:

  • walking paths;
  • car entrances and parking lots;
  • patios and areas for various purposes.

There are so many advantages of decorative concrete that you have to dwell on only a few of them to get a rough idea of ​​how good the choice will be. A special place is occupied by a durable surface, which is not afraid of either burnout, or moisture, or abrasion, although over time, some of this will still make itself felt. A real trump card is a high-quality imitation for tiles, wood, slate, and much more than the customer may wish. The words that there are no restrictions are true, which is not so difficult to convince in practice.

There are no serious shortcomings, but there are certain difficulties that require a special approach. Firstly, the customer will have to come to terms with the fact that the process will take a fairly large amount of time – there is no point in talking about high-quality execution in a short time. Secondly, the means at hand will simply not be enough; therefore, it is necessary to have special equipment and appropriate knowledge to not arise at the most crucial moment. Thirdly, the cost is several times more expensive than ordinary paving slabs.