subject: Install Pattern Concrete To Liven Up Your Home [print this page] Other names for pattern concrete are stamped, stencil or decorative pattern concrete. Some companies have chosen their own brand names for these types of product. Pattern concrete provides a stylish and realistic finish. It is a viable option to plainer finishes such as paving. The types available differ somewhat in their application and characteristics.
All types consist of a color hardener which is either an integral part of the concrete or is applied to an existing base. It creates a very smart finish to an area. For satisfactory results, care should be taken in the application. It is very durable with products withstanding use by light vehicles as well as pedestrians. Great improvement in the appearance of an area can be achieved by careful choice of color and design.
Pool surrounds, terraces and pathways are areas which benefit from treatment of this type. Carports, driveways and entrance ways gain a new lease of life. In domestic dwellings, it is found on kitchen and family room floors as well as covering patio areas. In the commercial world, it is finding increasing acceptance as a surface on sidewalks, entrances, lobbies, showrooms and shop floors.
While some products are used to resurface existing dull finishes, others are only applicable as part of a new surface. There is minimal maintenance once the product has hardened. A periodic clean and reseal is all that is required to keep it looking attractive. It is impervious to weather conditions and withstands normal pedestrian and light vehicle traffic.
There is a two-color option and a range of colors from natural browns and tans through to reds, blues and greens. By choosing terracotta with a brick-type pattern, a very natural effect is achieved. Stone and slate designs are also very realistic when used with complementary colors. Rock salt and slate is two of several textures offered and, in the right color, are again very natural-looking.
Stencils are available in classic and traditional configurations as well as more modern designs. Brick patterns such as basket weave, herringbone, running bond and diamond tile are offered. Other options are convict brick, cobblestone, London cobble and bush-rock. There are also rosette templates and header courses. Choose these to complement adjacent patterns. There is so much variety that something suitable can be found for all areas.
The material is applied after the stamping tool or template is put in place. It is then trowelled in and the stencil removed. The uncolored areas which have been covered with the stencil give the appearance of mortar joints. Later one or two coats of hardener are added. This helps preserve the color and increases the durability of the surface. The longer the hardener can be left to cure the better. Between one and seven days is usually recommended for pedestrian use and longer for areas which will be subjected to vehicular traffic.
Accurate placement of the stencil is vital to give a consistency and uniformity to the pattern. Careful thought should be given to this aspect if you are going to do the work yourself. All contractors and installers are highly skilled and have had extensive training to ensure a high quality and competent finish. Pattern concrete will give a very professional finish to an area.
