Decorative Concrete Ideas for Modern Home Exteriors

In modern home design, the appearance of a home’s exterior commands as much admiration as its interiors. What is inside of a house is reflected by what is seen outside. Because of this, the focus shouldn’t only be placed on interior design. The first things someone sees from the street, after all, is the outside appearance of a house. Well kept exteriors leave a positive impression on anyone who lays eyes on it. Enhancing the curb appeal and backyard of your home calls for the assistance of decorative concrete. Here are decorative concrete ideas for modern home exteriors.

Driveway

It’s no secret that concrete driveways are prone to cracking and other superficial damage because of daily vehicle traffic. A concrete driveway shouldn’t just be pleasing to the eyes, it should be durable as way. Modern home designs call for a smooth surface all throughout the driveway with minimal details.

Custom scorelines are a great way to achieve this. Not only does it add subtle accents to your driveway, but it’s also designed to hide the concrete cracks. By using a custom-cut concrete pattern, custom scorelines incorporate the existing cracks into the design.

Patio

Patios in modern home design veer towards a clear, urbane and polished look. Functional concrete structures are installed to maximize the use of the area. Especially for backyards with limited space. Adding color to outdoor furniture is also an option.

For outdoor floors, stained concrete gives a lustrous tint that breathes life into the whole area. Concrete staining can be done with one color all throughout. On the other hand, stencils can also be used to add an image or a pattern for a striking effect.

Walkway

Most people don’t pay much attention to their walkway. However, the walkway part of the facade of the house. The look of a walkway has to be well-kept in order to leave a good impression on neighbors and visitors. With concrete stamping, a variety of styles can be achieved to improve it.

You can either go for subtle detailing or a patterned look all throughout. Either way, concrete stamping adds detail and texture to your walkway. This gives off a put together look that complements the house perfectly.

Pool Deck

The look of the pool deck is one of the visual elements that really define an entire pool area. Pool decks are also in a demanding environment. It is constantly exposed to varying weather and gets frequently wet from regular use. Algae and mold overgrowth is something to watch out for as well as slip hazards.

To enhance the look and functionality of a pool deck, spray applying a spray knockdown texture is one of the best methods. You can choose from a variety of colors. The texture not only adds to the visual appeal of a pool deck, but it also creates a skid-free surface.

For more information on decorative concrete in Chicago, visit our homepage and you’ll find everything you need.

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Choosing Between Rubber, Asphalt, and Concrete Driveway

Choosing Between Rubber, Asphalt, and Concrete Driveway

When planning to build or replace a driveway, one of the first things you need to decide on is which material to use. There are certain considerations when it comes to choosing the right one. The three most popular options are rubber, asphalt and concrete driveways. To help you get a look at which would be right for you, here is a breakdown of their features:

Concrete Driveway

Concrete is the most common materials used on driveways and other outdoor surfaces. It is affordable, easy to maintain, and very versatile when it comes to design. A concrete driveway may not be as stunning as other paving materials but it can be colored, textured, and finished in many different ways. Popular decorative solutions include stamped and stained surfaces. Although it is a very porous material, it can be sealed to protect it from freeze-thaw damage, deicing salt, standing water, and many other damaging elements.

Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt, also called blacktop, is an even more affordable option than concrete. It is very pliable so it is resistant to damages caused by freeze-thaw cycles. It is easily poured on the driveway and it levels itself. Asphalt, however, does absorb heat, causing it to soften during very hot days. Like concrete, it needs to be sealed regularly to prevent it from drying out, cracking, and crumbling eventually. This type of driveway is easier to and more affordable to repair and maintain.

Rubber Driveway

Rubber is a popular alternative to concrete and asphalt when it comes to building or replacing a driveway. Because rubber is naturally elastic, it won’t crack under heavy loads and impact. It is easy to clean and maintain and it is an eco-friendly option. Rubber paving holds out great during winter because it is not affected by salt and other types of deicers. However, just like asphalt, it may have a tendency to melt or soften during an extremely hot day. It is also the most expensive option of all three materials.

Just when you thought choosing a driveway material is easy, you are faced with three great options. Although each one has its pros and cons, it is best to find the one that provides the most benefits that are appropriate for you. If you are unsure, seek the advice of a pro. There is nothing more fulfilling than investing in a driveway that looks amazing, functions great, and one that lasts for several years.

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4 Factors to Consider in Commercial Concrete Resurfacing Projects

In business, every aspect or element should contribute to its success. A good business owner invests to make sure that their target consumers and employees are satisfied. When it comes to fixing up a commercial space, floor design is an element that should not be ignored. It is equally important as your business sign outside. Concrete resurfacing is one way you could enhance or improve the appearance of your commercial floors. It does not have to be expensive. It just has to be designed based on the following factors.

The Nature of the Business

The floor should be appropriate for the type of business you have, both in form and function. If you are in the food or dining industry, choose a flooring material that does not easily stain from spilled food or drinks. Also, choose something that is easy to clean and maintain. Customers would not want to dine in a place that looks dirty or messy. If you are in the automotive industry, choose a flooring material that is durable enough to withstand the tremendous weight of vehicles. It should also be tough enough against impact, high traffic, and grease stains.

The Overall Design Theme

When choosing the design, color, or material of the floor, make it match or complement the entire theme of your business space. A modern floor design will look disconnected in a vintage themed room. It is highly recommended to consult a design expert to find out which floor materials, colors, and designs would look appropriate for the room design of your choice.

The Safety of Customers and Staff

More than aesthetics, the floor should also promote safety and functionality. In a business space where you expect people and staff to walk around often, choose a flooring material that makes walking comfortable and safe from slips and falls. In a commercial space where the floor could possibly get wet or greasy, opt for slip-resistant floors.

The Effect to the Environment

There are many flooring materials nowadays that are certified sustainable so finding an environment-friendly option should not be too difficult.

Choosing a commercial flooring material determines how appealing and interesting your business space would be. It will ensure the safety of your customers as well as the people working for you. You would not want customers suing you just because they slipped on your slippery floor, would you? The benefits affect you and your business tremendously. So, if you want to be successful in your endeavor, choose a commercial flooring material with utmost care.

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The Effect of Temperature on Acid Stained Concrete

The Effect of Temperature on Acid Stained Concrete

Acid staining is the process of adding color to concrete using a chemical-based stain. When the metallic salts in the acid stain come together with the lime and mineral content in concrete, a chemical reaction occurs, creating special effects on the concrete slab. Compared to water-based staining, using an acid stain requires a longer process since it involves neutralizing and rinsing. There are many factors that could affect the effectiveness of acid stains and one is temperature.

Important Tips When Acid Staining

There are many reasons why it is better to leave acid staining to the experts. One is the temperature. The temperature of the concrete and the surroundings must not be too high or too low so as not to affect how the stain dries and binds. Here are tips to consider when acid staining concrete.

• The surrounding temperature must be considered not only during installation time but for the rest of its drying time, which is about 12 hours. The proper temperature must be 35 degrees F. It can get higher or lower but as long as it does not get too hot or freezing.
• The drying time of an acid stain varies on the changing temperature as well. The important thing is that the temperature is within the normal range for a full 24 hours to make sure that the stain penetrates and binds fully in the deepest color possible. But if you are aiming for a lighter color, you can rinse and neutralize after 12 hours.
• Acid staining is still possible to do during summer. Just make sure that you apply the stain in the coolest part of the day, which is early in the morning. Doing so also ensures that the concrete is at its coolest since it usually releases absorbed heat through the evening.

It can get pretty difficult to schedule an acid staining project especially if the weather is erratic and unpredictable. It is important to check weather forecasts to make sure that an unexpected storm or heat wave is not set to happen during installation day, especially for outdoor concrete surfaces. Despite the need to consider temperature, the effort is all worth the results that an acid staining would yield. Once dried and sealed, the exceptional beauty and surprising effects will make any concrete space look more elegant and presentable. All these at a friendly price.

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3 Steps on How to Winterize a Garage Flooring

Winter in Chicago can be unforgiving not only in your driveway but also on your concrete garage flooring. You may think that it is unnecessary to winterize the garage floor since it is indoors. However, it is still prone to snow and deicers. When you drive your car around, it picks up bits and pieces of deicing salts, chemicals, and snow. Some stay attached until you make it into the garage. The snow melts and the deicers get detached, giving them the opportunity to wreak havoc on your garage floor. Fortunately, there are ways you can winterize the floor in the garage before the winter season kicks in.

Step 1: Clean the Concrete Floor

First, clean the concrete floor. Sweep thoroughly to remove dust and loose dirt. If it already has salt stains, make a solution out of warm water, soap and a little vinegar. Pour a bit of solution on the stain and brush it with a stiff brush until the stain lightens or fades. Rinse the area thoroughly with water and a mop, making sure that the salt stain solution won’t leave any trace of residue.

 

Step 2: Repair Damages

Inspect the floor to check for cracks or holes. Clean them out and use an epoxy filler to fix them. Do not patch with cement. While it looks like it fills them in and covers them up, it is only temporary and may break away eventually. To ensure durable solutions, hire a licensed contractor to make the necessary repairs.

 

Step 3: Apply an Epoxy Garage Floor Coating

Epoxy coating is a two-part material that is highly used on garage floors. It is tough and resistant to most types of damages. It is a seamless barrier that keeps snow, water, and deicers on the surface. It is highly recommended to apply this coating in warmer temperature, not when the cold weather can already be felt. Give the epoxy coating ample time to dry before using the garage floor. This will make sure that the coating has adhered well to the concrete floor and achieved optimum curing time.

 

An epoxy flooring is enough to keep the garage floor protected from any chemicals or deicers used on public streets and roads. It maintains the form and function of your concrete garage flooring all year round, regardless of the weather. You won’t have to worry about parking your snow-drenched car in the garage without mopping any water off of the floor.

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Why Stamped Concrete is the Best Choice for Outdoor Enhancements

A remodeling project can be very expensive, especially if you want major changes to happen. There is a way to get as much impact at a more affordable cost. Stamped concrete is a type of decorative concrete application that enhances the look of any outdoor concrete surface, such as the patio, pool deck, driveway, walkway, and more. It is affordable yet it yields aesthetics that truly look high-end and expensive. If you are planning an outdoor enhancement project, here notable reasons why stamped concrete is the best choice out there.

• It Looks Great!

It is stunning. With the wide range of patterns and textures available, there is no limit to how gorgeous a stamped surface can get. One popular feature of stamping is that concrete surfaces can be made to look like real stone, brick, wood, and other more high-end paving and flooring materials. A flagstone pattern, for example, can be made more realistic with the addition of concrete stain colors. Installers often customize the coloring process to make it look more natural.

• It is Strong and Durable

Concrete is as durable as time itself. It can handle heavy weight and high foot traffic. As long as it is properly installed, it is resistant to changes in weather and temperature. It is highly recommended to have the stamped surface finished with a concrete sealer to enhance its durability. The sealer will also seal off concrete pores where mold and mildew could grow from.

• It is Super Versatile

Concrete, by nature, is a very versatile material. Being able to acquire patterns through stamping is actually another way it proves its versatility. Another way it is versatile is how easily repairable minor damages are. Cracks can easily be filled and holes can be filled. After that, an overlay can be installed and stamped with your desired pattern.

• It Requires Minimal Care

A stamped surface is one gapless surface so dirt, weed, mold, or bugs won’t be able to make homes out of gaps or divisions. If properly sealed, dirt and moisture stays at the surface and will not penetrate the slab. You also won’t need special cleaning products or routines for it. Daily basic cleaning and occasional power washing are enough to keep it in good shape for years to come.

When you choose to go with stamped concrete, there is nothing to regret. Just make sure that you hire a contractor who is highly trained and experienced in stamped concrete projects.

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4 Must-Have Concrete Patio Cleaning Tools

A concrete patio, whether covered or not, is prone to dirt, dust, and even mold and mildew. There is not a single material out there that is entirely maintenance free. Maybe some may require only minimal cleaning than others. Regardless of what the finish of your concrete patio is, make sure you have the following cleaning tools within reach:

• Pressure Washer

Also called a power washer, this is a very efficient tool for cleaning the patio. Depending on the type of pressure nozzle, the strength of the water that shoots out can remove tough and stubborn dirt, mud, algae, moss, and more. Just make sure not to concentrate the stream of water in one spot for a long time to keep the pressure from damaging the concrete itself. It is important to wear safety goggles to keep flying debris from entering your eyes.

• Brushes

Have different types of brushes ready at your disposal. Soft brushes are great for rubbing paste-type cleaners on stains or stubborn dirt. Stiffer brushes are great for tougher dirt and stains. But use stiff brushes with caution. It could damage the material or any finish it has on top of it.

• Spray Bottle

This is especially helpful for use in any type of cleaning, be it outdoors or indoors. Put some of your reliable cleaning solution in the spray bottle for easy spritzing and cleanup. Designate a different spray bottle for each cleaner that you use. Not only will this keep different cleaners from mixing, it is also a lot more convenient.

• Broom

Regular sweeping is enough to remove dirt and debris from the concrete patio. Choose one that is stiff enough to remove dirt even in crevices, cuts, gaps, or joints but soft enough to not scratch the surface of the concrete patio.

These are just the essential cleaning tools that you must readily have in your home. Keep all patio cleaning tools in a box or cabinet in the garage or shed to make it easy to access when needed. Schedule a regular cleanup every weekend or whenever it is most convenient for you. The sooner you remove dirt, debris, and stains on the concrete patio, the easier it will be to clean. If you plan to use commercial cleaners with chemical content, consult a pro to make sure that it would not be harmful to the concrete or any finish or coating installed on it.

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