How To Add Style To Concrete Surfaces
If you are going to have cement or concrete walls throughout your yard, whether they are retaining walls are purely decorative, you have a few things to consider. That is, many people just focus on pouring something that is going to be functional. However, you can add some style to just about any concrete surface in several different ways. This article explains how textures, tints, and glazes can make pretty much any concrete wall look more stylish.
Adding Texture to Your Concrete
Concrete textures need to be applied while the concrete is poured. Usually, they use a special stamp or rolling device to apply the texture onto the concrete as it dries. There are a variety of stamps that can create the look of brick or a natural stone texture. There are even products that have wood grain finishes. Basically, these subtle textures can make any concrete surface just look a little more dynamic and warm.
Adding Color to Your Concrete
In addition to adding a texture, you should also consider adding some color to your concrete walls. It is quite easy to match the concrete colors with the walls of your home, especially if you have dyed vinyl or painted stucco exterior side walls.There are colored concrete products, and then there are after market colors that can be added to the concrete after it has dried. These basically dye the existing concrete.
Of course, pouring colored concrete is going to be more convenient because it is one less step of work. However, there are probably more after market tint colors to choose from. Additionally, if your concrete is already dry, this is obviously your only option. Some concrete coloring comes in the form of glazes. Glaze finishes are basically like stain finishes that go on the outside of the concrete and add a nice sheen to it. This protects the concrete, and makes it much more waterproof. There are also click clear glaze finishes that simply make the surface and little shinier. Some people will add a texture and tint to their concrete, and then apply a glaze over it to protect the surface. Concrete that is glazed will not fade as rapidly.
Basically, there are many ways to make your concrete wall stand out. You don't have to just pour boring gray concrete around your home. You can quite easily add some style and uniqueness to your yard. Contact a concrete contractor for more help.
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