Category: Design

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What Exactly is Decorative Concrete ?

 

Concrete is simple and durable. Made from crushed stone, water, sand, and cement, it’s used in 90 percent of homes and businesses. Most people think of a bland, gray, stone-like material, more functional than beautiful. However, recent developments in concrete use have produced something called decorative concrete and it’s changing the construction industry.

So what exactly is decorative concrete?

Decorative concrete is traditional concrete that is modified, using mechanical techniques and environmentally-friendly chemicals to transform the surface appearance and make concrete look like a variety of other materials, such as brick, marble, granite, tile, slate, and even wood. Best of all decorative concrete can be made waterproof and slip-resistance and repairs easily. Continue reading →

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5 Surprisingly Fun and Romantic Ideas Using Concrete

Happy Valentine’s Day! Who knew concrete could be fun and romantic? Here are five surprising and inspirational ways to creatively express how you feel about your loved ones. Don’t forget, you can use these suggestions year round, not just for Valentine’s Day. For those of us in colder weather, it might be a little more practical to wait for the warmth!

Concrete Solutions - inscribed message concrete garden decoration.1. Set it in stone. Commission a concrete block, inscribed with your favorite poem, quote, or a simple “I love you” message.  The right design makes a great garden ornament or patio block, or you can also design pieces for the interior of your abode.

2. Give roses that never wilt. Did you know that concrete can be dyed to match almost any color? Let your artistic side shine and design a red rose floor for your garden patio.

Concrete Solutions - fun chess garden3. Build a giant board game in your backyard. Classic examples include life size chess and checkerboards, complete with lightweight game pieces. Invite your friends over for some live action gaming. You can always think outside the box for something more active, and build your own version of your favorite game. Who hasn’t dreamed of playing Chutes and Ladders in real life?

4. Adopt a fish pond. Concrete makes a great foundation for decorative ponds. You’ll need to test the waters with a pH test kit before you add any fish to make sure your water is safe for marine life. Some types of concrete can contaminate the water with toxic chemicals, and dead fish are never romantic.

5. Add functionality. Sundials are classy and useful additions to any garden, not to mention educational. Show your family and visitors how to tell time by the sun and become more in tune with nature.

Do you have any creative or romantic ideas using concrete? We’d love to hear your suggestions on our Facebook page! Have a more “concrete” plan? Contact us or request a quote to get started.

“Love, like truth and beauty, is concrete.” – Carter Heywood