As any decorative concrete artisan knows, staining is one of the most nuanced, finicky and unpredictable techniques in the playbook. Yes, stains offer a fantastic variety of design possibilities — just consider the difference between an acid-stained floor and a water-based stain job, for example.
Tips & How-Tos
Industry veterans, entrepreneurs and decorative concrete artisans reveal findings, divulge lessons learned and outline methods used to help advance the industry as a whole.
Pros and Cons of Outdoor Concrete Stains
Of all the different types of decorative concrete, exterior staining is the most affordable. It also requires the least manpower. But this is an article on how your business can be sure to pick the right exterior staining product to create the outdoor paradise your clients value the most.
Decorative Concrete Techniques – Cleaning and Resealing Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate is a common theme around many backyard swimming pools, and it’s often a gorgeous accent to poolside appeal. How to clean exposed aggregate concrete.
How To Apply Glow-in-the-dark Stone in Concrete
Just when you thought you were going to install another exposed aggregate pool deck, your clients inform you they want the concrete to “glow” with stone accents. Don’t hit the panic button! If you’ve never worked with a glowing medium before, glow-in-the-dark stones in concrete can be a breeze. Glow […]
Sealing Exposed Aggregate Concrete for Best Results
Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative concrete look that will enhance the curb appeal of driveways, pool decks, sidewalks and patios. It’s achieved when the top layer of concrete has been removed to expose the rocks underneath.
Concrete Contractor Veterans Share Techniques for How to Stamp Concrete
Experts share some secrets for honing your concrete stamping skills.
Decorative Concrete Tips: The Two-Day Pour
Some large projects will require more than one pour to complete. Whether you are doing an overlay or stamped concrete, matching in to the previous days work is very important. Having a project look uniform from start to finish, will lessen headaches, make happier customers and sell more work.
Good Techniques are Key to Success with Integrally Colored Concrete
The minute you add integral color to concrete, people look at it differently than they do gray concrete — their expectations are higher. Educating your client about integral color is important. Be sure to explain its limitations. But, also, be sure to use good techniques. These contractor-recommended tips can help ensure excellent results.
How to use Color Hardeners for Coloring Concrete
Use of various colors produce a more two dimensional (or realistic) look. They help to blend concrete to the environment or distinguish it from other construction materials.
Brushing up on your Concrete Finishing Techniques
With integrally colored concrete, color problems are frequently the result of poor ?nishing techniques. Tips for finishing integrally colored concrete.