Different Styles of Decorative Concrete Applications

By  Guest Author: Patrick OShea

If you are sick of looking at your old gray concrete that looks just like every other slab, you are not alone. Many businesses and homes are looking for a more vibrant and attractive look to enhance the surrounding decor. Not only will decorative concrete shout out pizazz, but can increase the value of your home or business building.

Many contractors and home owners are looking for more than the regular aggregate or concrete. Decorative concrete does just that. It takes regular concrete and turns it into the "wow" factor. Many concrete contractors will pour the concrete, but a flooring specialist will have to come in and inform you of your options if there is a desire for something else. Depending upon the style or type of application you desire, will need to be implemented before, during or after the concrete has cured.

A decorative concrete contractor can also incorporate different decorative styles to your concrete project. Decorative concrete is a general term used for concrete that has a style associated with it. Some decorative styles and definitions are listed:

Acid Staining - An acid is applied to the concrete (after hardened) and lightly etches the concrete and colors the concrete. The application will have a marbleized effect to the existing slab.
​
Epoxy Flooring - Epoxy is a sealant generally used for high traffic areas. It gives the concrete extra strength. It will give the concrete a smooth and elegant look. Used in residential, commercial and industrial uses often.

Reflector Enhancer - This is a fairly new application where small shavings of metal and other reflective additives are mixed in with an epoxy. This mixture will result in a 3D look that will amaze customers and visitors.

---

Stamped Concrete - As the concrete is poured and is curing, a "stamp" can be applied to give different effects to the concrete. Some effects include shale, brick, blocks, wood, cobblestone, etc.

Dyes - As concrete is poured, it can be mixed with different colors. Some popular colors include different hues of blue, red, and brown, but almost any color can be added to match the surrounding decor.

Concrete Overlays - This is a style where the existing concrete slab is cracked, pitted or damaged. A thin layer of cement mixed with acrylics are mixed and spread across the slab. Overlays can be a thickness from 1/8" to 4" or more.

In many projects, decorative styles can be combined. For instance, a popular choice is to acid stain concrete, then apply an epoxy sealant after it dries. Or a concrete overlay can be applied, then acid stained. Also, dyes are often mixed when pouring concrete and a stamped design is applied.

Whatever your desires are, a decorative concrete contractor can help you out with your decision. Not only will the flooring be much more attractive, but it can add value to your property and bring in more clients.
​
Written by Patrick OShea, intended for use by Epoxy Flooring Contractor [http://www.decorative-concrete.biz] and Acid Staining Contractor [http://www.decorative-concrete.biz] Article Source: https://EzineArticles.com/expert/Patrick_OShea/632728 Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5978240

---