An extremely popular choice for homeowners, decorative concrete affords a range of benefits to those who incorporate it into their homes.
What Is Decorative Concrete?
Decorative concrete is a form of concrete finish that transcends the traditional, standard grey finish that is widely utilised. It allows homeowners to add a different, stylish design to the internal or external areas of the home. Decorative concrete is not only a functional medium but adds an eye-catching element to the home, increasing visual appeal. Decorative concrete is available in a wide range of colours, patterns and finishes, giving homeowners greater flexibility.
Such is the versatility of decorative concrete, it can be utilised all over the home – from flooring, driveways, paths, patios, pool surrounds and more. Visual accents such as logos or lettering can also be achieved with this type of finish.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Exposed aggregate is a decorative concrete finish that is achieved by removing the top few millimetres of concrete paste, revealing the stones, called aggregate, embedded within the concrete. A sealer is applied to the surface which enhances and protects the product from damage. Due to the range of aggregates that can be utilised, such as limestone, granite and sand, achieving one-of-a-kind finishes is possible. Exposed aggregate is an easy way to add to the value of your home.
Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is a decorative concrete technique that is achieved through the use of chemical densifiers. It should not be confused with sealing or the act of waxing and mechanically polishing the floor. In a polished concrete application, the densifier is applied to the surface to fill out the pores of the concrete. Once dry, a grinder is utilised to shave down the densifier into the desired polish. There are a variety of grades and finishes available, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want to make their concrete floors pop while maintaining a level of bareness.
Honed Concrete
Honed concrete is a contemporary and stylish finish that is gaining popularity amongst homeowners in recent times. Honed concrete is commonly referred to as ‘Grind and Seal’ concrete. This type of concrete boasts a mirror like finish and is highly versatile in terms of its design possibilities. Honed concrete is often found in commercial applications, such as shopping centres, due to its professional aesthetic and low maintenance properties. An occasional mopping with a cleaning agent is enough to keep your honed concrete looking brand new.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete is a finish that adds texture and design to any floor through the use of stamping mats and moulds. These stamps are pressed into wet concrete leaving behind a decorative imprint. Stamped concrete can be used to add patterns and bespoke designs but can also be used to imitate the look of alternative flooring materials such as wood, bricks and stone.
Liquid Limestone
Generally, concrete is made from cement, water and various additives. Liquid limestone consists of similar components with the addition of crushed limestone. While concrete is naturally grey due to the cement component, liquid limestone surfaces are white in finish. This leads to a highly customisable product that affords homeowners greater creative control over colour and design.
Benefits of Decorative Concrete
If you’re hoping to add a unique and visually appealing feature to your homes design, you may choose to consider decorative concrete. Gone are the days of concrete being used exclusively for industrial areas or outdoor spaces. With the addition of colours, textures and patterns, decorative concrete can be a perfect addition throughout the home. Below we have highlighted some of the key benefits in choosing a decorative concrete installation.
Customisable Designs
One of the key benefits of decorative concrete is the flexibility in design that it affords those who install it. Decorative concrete allows homeowners to create their own polished look, acid etch, stamped pattern or a complete stain to the flooring – something that can’t be replicated with other flooring options. Decorative concrete is often used in public spaces due to their low maintenance requirements, light reflecting properties and durability. The versatility of decorative concrete allows it to be customised to fit any aesthetic style or type of décor in your home.
Durability
Concrete is a highly durable material that is best utilised in flooring, driveways, patios, pool surrounds and walkways throughout the home. However, bare or untreated concrete can still be at risk of damage, when compared to a decorative concrete finish. Installing a decorative concrete finishes, or an overlay that creates a continuous, sealed surface enhances the durability of a concrete installation. Decorative concrete surfaces require less maintenance and pose less risk of ongoing repairs from chipping, cracking, peeling and fading.
Low Maintenance
One of the most appealing factors of decorative concrete is its low maintenance requirements. As a non-porous, continuous sealed surface, decorative concrete finishes are extremely tough wearing, making cleaning awfully simple. Unlike alternative outdoor coverings including stone, wood and bricks, decorative concrete prevents dirt, moisture, mould and stains from penetrating the surface of the application. Simple cleaning with a mop or an annual pressure wash can keep your concrete looking brand new.
Versatility
Decorative concrete isn’t just used for driveways. It can be installed throughout your home with ease, including for walls, patios, outdoor areas, front porches and around swimming pools, making these areas attractive features.
Due to the vast design variations available, there is bound to be a decorative concrete style that fits your desired aesthetic or matches the décor of your home. Decorative concrete is a great way to enhance the look and feel of your home through its installation in key areas of the property.
Adds To Property Value
Having great curb appeal is essential when the time comes to sell your property. Curb appeal is related to how attractive the house and surrounding area seems to prospective buyers from a street view. Associated with curb appeal but tied closer to your bottom line is your property’s value. A house with a decorative concrete driveway has been known to be worth as much as 10% more on the open market.
With the average property price in Perth in the neighbourhood of half a million dollars, a single concrete driveway could be seen to increase the value of the home by up to $50,000.
Does Decorative Concrete Have Any Limitations?
While decorative concrete affords homeowners a range of benefits, there are some potential limitations that you should be aware of before going ahead with an installation.
- Subjected to earth movements and extreme temperatures, over time concrete can experience cracking.
- Coloured concrete is prone to weathering and can fade under the sun over time.
- Dependent on the concrete style you have elected, you can generally expect to wait up to five days for it to dry before usage.
- Smooth decorative concrete finishes can be slippery when wet and often produce a daytime glare.
- Aggregate concrete may need stones replaced, if a hole goes unnoticed, water can seep in between the concrete and aggregate, breaking the bond.
Where Can Decorative Concrete Be Installed in My Home?
Due to the benefits outlined above, such as versatility and durability, decorative concrete finishes can be used throughout internal and external areas of the home. From floors and walls to countertops and outdoor living areas, decorative concrete offers a range of design possibilities for homeowners, adding visual interest to the property.
Driveways
Decorative concrete driveways have become increasingly popular amongst homeowners looking at a new installation or a replacement for an old driveway. The many types and finishes of decorative concrete add visual appeal to the property and can also increase the value of the home. Decorative concrete finishes have provided homeowners with an array of options to enhance the entrance of their properties. Another benefit is the ability to give existing concrete driveways a decorative makeover.
Internal Flooring
Decorative concrete flooring is fast becoming the go-to floor covering for both residential and commercial applications. The versatility of design and colour, as well as the ability to customise concrete applications to replicate alternative flooring options has led to this popularity. The team at TKL Contractors have been helping customers realise the endless possibilities of creating decorative concrete floors to compliment their lifestyle and home’s aesthetic, ranging from traditional to contemporary.
Pool Surrounds
Rejuvenating a tired pool area with a decorative concrete pool surround is one of the most practical applications for homeowners. The flexibility in regard to the colours and patterns available means there is bound to be a decorative concrete style that suits your home. When installed by TKL Contractors these finishes are extremely durable and last for years. The addition of a coating extends the lifespan of the application, making it look new and covering up any minor blemishes or imperfections.
Patio / Outdoor Area
Add long-lasting character to your outdoor living space with a decorative concrete installation that is bound to add aesthetic appeal. Spruce up your patio area without the mammoth tasks related to landscaping. These spaces are not only amazing to utilise with friends and family, but they also help your property stand out on the market and attract prospective buyers when you decide to sell.
Why Choose TKL Contractors For Your Decorative Concrete Installation?
Since 2016, TKL Contractors have been transforming outdoor areas into glamourous living spaces for our clients. Throughout the decorative concreting process, we work closely with you to ensure your installation aligns with your vision. We are the preferred Geostone concrete installer in the Bunbury and Busselton areas, so you can rely on us for quality every time.
As industry leaders in outdoor renovations, our highly qualified and experienced team are here to provide you with friendly, no hassles service with no hidden costs. For all outdoor area overhauls, contact TKL Contractors.