When it comes to concrete, many different types of finishes can be applied to the surface. For a beautiful and functional material, decorative concrete finishes have been developed over the years. Different techniques and materials have been developed so that different looks can be achieved depending upon the style of the home and other factors. In this article, we’ll take a look at some popular decorative concrete finishes and discuss how they can be applied to current projects.
Concrete has a wide variety of choices when it comes to finishes. This is largely due to the different types of concrete that exist. Some concrete may not be suitable for use with certain finishes because it can crack or break easily. Here’s a look at a few finishes that you might want to consider for your concrete.
Stamped Concrete
This is a popular choice for people who don’t mind having imperfections in their concrete finishes. Stamped concrete is simply a patterned concrete finish that’s applied using a stamp. It’s possible to find a stamp that’s made specifically for decorative concrete finishes and is used by many professional concrete contractors. This type of finish is attractive, durable, and can easily be repaired. Some homeowners enjoy the decorative appeal of stamped concrete but don’t like the fact that it’s vulnerable to cracks and other types of damage.
Exposed Aggregate
This is an excellent option for homeowners who’d like a striking and bold look on their exterior concrete. The large variety of colors that you can choose from will create a dynamic look in your yard. The best part about exposed aggregate concrete is that you can choose a color that’s similar to what you would find in paint. This gives the finished product a very attractive look.
Colored Aggregate
Most importantly, you need to make sure that you choose a consistent color when you apply this finish. With so many colors available for concrete you have the potential to achieve almost any look you want. Make sure to use one color throughout the entire project so that the concrete looks consistent throughout.
Decorative Patterns
You can also opt to pattern your concrete. The patterns you use will depend on your personal preferences. Some people prefer simple patterns that mimic flowers while others prefer intricate, detailed patterns that resemble sand or tile patterns. The best part about decorative patterns is that they are easy to install and they can help you achieve a look that’s unique to you. If you have the money, you can spend a bit more on the patterns so that you get even more value out of the investment.
Concrete Polishing
You can also polish your concrete to achieve a beautiful glossy look. It’s important to realize that this process will increase the amount of wear and tear on the surface of your concrete. So, you must take proper care of the surface that you are polishing. Use only products that are designed to be gentle on concrete. Some products can damage your concrete and ruin the look. Therefore, you must choose a sealer that won’t cause damage to your concrete before you start to use it.
These are just a few of the decorative concrete finishes that are available. In addition to the options listed above, other techniques can be used to provide a great-looking finish. If you don’t feel comfortable trying one of the techniques above, feel free to ask a professional for assistance. They are usually more than happy to share their expertise with you so that you can enjoy the many benefits of a beautiful concrete
