Decorative Concrete

Concrete - it’s practical, sturdy and has been used in the construction of buildings since the early Roman times. However, let’s face it - few of us would argue that most concrete patios, driveways, walkways and garage floors are attractive. But, as many homeowners and do-it-yourselfers are discovering, through the use of decorative concrete treatments, those cold, gray, slabs can take on a unique, stylish look that reflects homeowners’ particular tastes.

Why Decorative Concrete Treatments?
Decorative concrete treatments, such as painting and stencilling, have gained in popularity during the past few years, although the idea of decorative concrete is not new.

Decorative concrete allows homeowners to create vibrant colours and intricate designs at half the cost of installing real stone or other natural materials.

Decorative techniques involve changing either the colour or pattern of a concrete surface, or both. The most common treatments make concrete appear more like expensive material such as tile, cobblestone, brick and keystone. These illusions can be accomplished through a number of applications. The following are two of the easiest and most popular DIY treatments:

* Painting

If you’re looking to add some pizzazz to your dreary driveway, patio or garage floor, or cover up some unsightly oil stains, painting will serve to change the colour or look of your concrete, as well as add lasting protection against the outdoor elements. In several simple steps, you can transform an outdoor concrete surface into a colourful creation. In most cases, you’ll begin by cleaning the area with a concrete de-greaser to help alleviate oil and grease spots. After rinsing off the de-greaser, you should apply an etch cleaner. This step should make the surface feel like 120 grit sandpaper and allow the stain to easily soak into the concrete. After waiting for 24 hours, you can apply the first coat of paint with a brush or roller. A second coat can usually be added after the first coat of stain dries for at least another 12 hours.

Today, concrete paints span the colour spectrum. They’re offered in colours ranging from traditional browns and grays to racy reds, greens and even hues of purple.

*Stencilling

If you want to take staining one step further, stencilling is a simple way to place brick or stone patterns on a concrete surface. Make your own stencil templates using water-resistant plastic. The “stone” pattern is created by rolling the template out on the concrete and applying a spray base colour through the stencil, much like standard stencilling.

  source: ara content