The world's foremost resource on decorative concrete
Instead of pouring concrete, concrete installers place concrete where they want it to go. And there are right ways and wrong ways to do this.
Some of the concrete design trends in Colorado differ from those in other parts of the country. In Colorado, we see a strong push for higher quality in even the most standard concrete. Even though we specialize in decorative concrete, some of our larger contracts this year include a good portion of standard uncolored broom-finished concrete.
Stenciling gives a more detailed and realistic finish to fresh concrete than stamping. And there are other advantages to stenciling, as well.
Experts share some “whys” and “hows” for using stencils on fresh concrete.
When it comes to edging that pleases the eye, decorative concrete curbs have no competition.
Railroad ties rot, bender board breaks and brick mortar crumbles. But decorative curbing is permanent.
Snowmelt technology is, essentially, radiant heat applied to outdoor surfaces. There are few differences between the two heating techniques, and both can be used to heat low- or high-mass concrete surfaces to melt ice and snow, keeping surfaces safe and clear of icy accumulations.
Part of the problem has to do with standards for slip resistance: Who has guidelines and which ones do you use for decorative concrete? Then there is the testing aspect: Which testing methods are appropriate and reliable, and in what testing conditions?
With its distinctive Rice Krispies look, pervious concrete was designed to let liquids pass through it. The material poses some clear challenges for decorative concrete contractors.
Bob Harris of the Decorative Concrete Institute was asked about his experience training and working at the Children’s Museum of Phoenix as part of the Concrete Decor Show & Decorative Concrete Spring Training.
Intended to mimic the look of travertine, this microexposure finish leaves the surface with a subtle texture that complements integrally colored exteriors beautifully.
The working conditions weren’t those of a stateside project, but the objective was the same: Build a skate park that had the smooth curves and flawless finishes of any topnotch park in the U.S. Learn how this contractor skated to perfection.
The latest creation of Brazilian architect and artistic concrete pioneer Oscar Niemeyer draws you into its grand oval entrance with a cool, understated terrace of pale gray.
