Decorative concrete

[1] This limitless array of possibilities combined with great durability and lower cost than natural products makes Stamped Concrete an easy choice for new construction and renovation projects.

Stamped concrete may be used on driveways, patios, commercial roads and parking lots and even interior floors.

There are many re-coloring options which can completely restore and rejuvenate the color and presentation of faded stamped concrete.

During the concrete pouring process, the top layer of cement/sand paste is removed to reveal the embedded aggregate (stones, pebbles, or even shells).

Exposed aggregate concrete is highly durable and resistant to heavy traffic, making it ideal for driveways, sidewalks, patios, and pool decks.

Therefore, alcohol-based dyes were more prevalent in interior applications where direct sunlight or other forms of ultraviolet (UV) lighting was not present.

Manufacturers later began dissolving the same printing inks in different carriers, such as acetone, lacquer thinner and other solvents, hoping to achieve increased penetration levels.

A mixture of water, mineral salts and a slight amount of muriatic acid is applied to the concrete surface.

Due to inconsistencies in the surface level of concrete floor, acid staining creates a variegated or mottled appearance that is unique to each slab.

There are many variations of water based stains that have come into the decorative concrete industry that perform in a number of different ways.

In addition, polymer cement overlays are much more resistant to damage from salt, petrochemicals, UV, harsh weather conditions and traffic wearing.

Polymer cement overlays are regarded as economical in providing long term, durable renovation without the need for costly and continuous repairs associated with deteriorating concrete surfaces.

Polymer cement overlays are used for interior and exterior applications ranging from: Rubber imprinting tools (stamps) are impressed into thin pre-mixed concrete overlay material shortly after it is placed to create natural stone or brick textures.

The work is accomplished in multiple stages by passing over the concrete with successive grit diamond pads until it has a hard-glassy finish.

Generally, this process starts with the sculptor, who creates the design to be used in the concrete using clay, polyurethane or wax.