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DESIGNS FOR STAMPED CONCRETE PORCH FLOORS BY ARCHITECTURAL STYLE

Thu, 27 Feb 2020 16:00:00 GMT

Many house styles feature a front porch. Some feature a modest entry while others offer a long outdoor living area. Concrete stands up well to foot traffic and the vagaries of the weather, so it's a good material for the porch floor. The contractors can also stamp the concrete so it resembles another material.

If you're remodeling your porch or making choices for a new build, consider durable stamped concrete. You can match the stamped concrete floor to your house's architectural style by studying the following guide.

Modest Styles

As the name suggests, modest styles are for those houses with a simple approach to architecture. They're not plain, but their façades don't feature a lot of ornamentation. Their porches follow suit.

One popular modest house is the ranch. These one-story structures have wood siding and sometimes some stone veneer. Their porches are often open. For this porch, you want your stamped concrete to resemble a traditional building material, stone. If your house's façade already has stone, don't try to mimic the original. Instead, try a general stone or slate texturing.

A bungalow is a similarly modest house, but one that commonly comes with two stories. They're typically finished with wooden shakes or shingles. They feature a wide, covered veranda for a porch.

Bungalows are meant to look rough yet glamorous. Part of that look comes from the shake or shingle siding, which is a high-end material. However, the siding weathers to a pleasantly rough patina. For a bungalow porch floor, then, consider a concrete slab stamped to resemble the wood that's integral to the style.

Elaborate Styles

The following architecture styles are polar opposites of the above. They're often bigger and grander with a lot of ornamentation in their façades.

Tudor houses usually feature asymmetry and a lot of trim. Builders use a decorative combination of wood, brick, stone, and stucco in the façades. The porches are often a little larger than ranch porches but perhaps not as long as bungalow verandas. They can be covered or left open.

The traditional material for the porch floor is either brick or stone, so you could choose concrete stamped with either of those patterns. As with the ranch house, consider a basic stone instead of a mortared stone pattern.

Victorian houses are even more elaborate than Tudors - they even feature architectural elements such as turrets and arches. Their façades feature elaborate trim and multicolor palettes. Unlike Tudors, though, builders use fewer materials - the façades are often wood only.

Victorian porches are usually covered. They feature elaborate trim and craftsmanship in the balusters and rails. Because of the prevalence of the material in the façade, a wood-stamped concrete floor would be appropriate.

Medium Styles

Houses in this category tend to fall somewhere between the above two extremes.

On the surface, Craftsman houses resemble ranch homes. However, they stem from their own movement - the Arts and Crafts movement of the early 20th century. Like ranch houses, their façades are predominantly in wood with some stone. The main difference is that the wood is elaborately crafted - hence the name.

Because crafted wood is the centerpiece of a Craftsman home, you might want to stay away from wood-stamped concrete. Look instead for a pattern that complements the details in the house's façade. For example, look at patterns that resemble mortared stone.

A Colonial house goes in a different direction than either ranch or bungalow homes. The façade is symmetrical and stately to resemble old style manor houses. Modern-day gated community houses are often based on the Colonial style. Builders use high-end materials such as stone and, especially, brick in the façade.

For all their grandeur, Colonial porches tend to be modest-sized. However, they usually feature columns and a pediment over the small porch. You could choose concrete stamped with a brick pattern for this style of house.

Use your house's architectural style as inspiration for your stamped concrete porch floor. Let Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc. design and pour the concrete floor for you.

PLANNING YOUR STAMPED CONCRETE DRIVEWAY REPLACEMENT

Fri, 03 Jan 2020 16:00:00 GMT

A stamped concrete driveway can be a beautiful addition to your home's outside decor. But whether you're replacing a current stamped driveway or putting one in to replace a plain concrete driveway, you'll need to work out some details, such as the design specifications, the best time for replacement, and other issues, before you start the job.

Here are some considerations to keep in mind as you start to plan your driveway replacement.

1. Disposing of Old Concrete

Concrete is often considered a relatively eco-friendly material. It can be produced with waste materials such as fly ash, and it's made of natural minerals rather than petroleum-based materials. But even better, concrete can be recycled into fresh building materials at the end of its working life.

Once your old concrete driveway is broken up and removed from the driveway spot, you may be able to sell it cheaply to someone local who wants to use it in their landscaping or a building project. Or you could use the pieces yourself as a rustic edging for garden beds.

If that doesn't appeal to you, you could give the material away, or even send it to a recycling center. The point is, your old concrete materials shouldn't have to take up space in a landfill.

2. Planning Around the Weather

One thing you'll want to consider early on is which season will be best for your driveway replacement. After all, you don't want to experience any problems with the concrete setting process. And in fact, contractors are likely to tell you that milder seasons such as spring and fall are likely to yield best results.

However, concrete pouring jobs can work well in the wintertime, too. If you do want to schedule the job in winter, keep in mind that it may take longer and may require specialized equipment (such as heat blankets) that could add to the cost of the driveway.

3. Finding the Best Contractor

The first basic qualification should be making sure any contractors you consider are properly licensed to work in your area. Licensing and license requirements can vary by state. In North Carolina, contractors have to not only pass an exam but meet other qualifications as well.

For instance, the contractor will need to have enough relevant experience before being granted the license. They also need to have financial stability (this gives you some assurance that the contractor won't go broke and leave your job incomplete).

After determining the contractor is correctly licensed in your area, you should progress to checking their reputation online, if they have an online presence. Be sure to also ask for recommendations from recent customers, and seeing if any of the contractors you're considering have personal recommendations from your network of family and friends.

4. Design Specifications and Elements

Once you've decided on logistics such as which contractor to use and when to schedule the job, you'll want to think about the design specifications for your new driveway. First, consider if you ever had problems with the previous driveway. Was it too small? Did it suffer from cracks due to foundation problems?

If your driveway had any issues, talk to your contractor about how your new driveway can be designed to avoid these potential problems. Once that's settled, think about how you want your driveway to look. Any particular stamping patterns, any ideas you have about what color you'd like to be stained, and so forth should be discussed at this point as well.

Once you have the logistics down, choose a contractor, and decide what design specifications and elements to include in your driveway, you'll be ready to move forward with the project. If you're currently at the stage of looking for the best contractor, consider giving Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc. a call. Our decorative concrete skills are at your service.

ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME WITH THESE CONCRETE PROJECTS

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 16:00:00 GMT

How can you add value to your home without a total teardown or major renovation? Concrete is an easy way to up the ante on aesthetics. If you're not sure where to start making changes, take a look at the top interior and exterior concrete projects to consider.

Interior Floors

Stamped or stained concrete can transform your floors - and the entire look of your home. Why choose concrete flooring to add value to your home? This interior option is:

Durable. Unlike easy-to-stain carpeting or delicate wood floors that can scratch, concrete can stand up to your family's constant use. This makes it an aesthetic option that can last for decades to come. This can save you, or the next owner, money in the long-run.
Stylish. Whether you prefer a modern style or traditional, a stamped or stained concrete can provide you with the look you want. If you choose to sell your home down the road, concrete offers a standout style that sets your home apart from others on the market.
Low maintenance. Not only can you enjoy the low-maintenance lifestyle that comes with concrete floors, but the next homeowner can to. The low degree of upkeep needed makes these floors an attractive addition for anyone who owns the house.
If you're not sure where to install concrete floors, you have an almost endless variety of options. From bathrooms and kitchens to living rooms and dining spaces, these floors add a special something to any area of the home.

Interior Accents

Floors aren't the only interior spaces that can benefit from a concrete redo. If you are on the hunt for a way to add value to your home, increase visual interest, and create a low-maintenance environment, consider:

Concrete countertops. Create a modern feel with this alternative kitchen option.
Concrete stairs. Concrete stairs aren't just outdoor options. You can use this building materials to create contemporary, durable stairs that give your home an industrial-like look.
Concrete fire-feature. Change the look of your mantle or fireplace with concrete. Instead of individual stones or bricks, stamped concrete is often a less expensive option that adds plenty of visual flare.

Talk to the concrete contractor about where to best use this material in your home. They can help you to add value to the interior space with the right projects for your home's needs.

Patio Spaces

A dull, dirt-covered backyard patio leaves something to be desired. But a custom, stamped concrete style is a design option that can add extra appeal. Whether you want a new and entirely impressive look for your yard or you need to increase the value before you sell the house, concrete is an option to seriously explore.

A concrete patio addition comes with plenty of benefits. These include:

Options. Forget about plain gray concrete. You have options. Stamped patterns, staining, and other treatments can turn would-be plain paving into a designer delight. This makes it possible to choose a style that matches your home's exterior or your landscape design.
Durability. Like interior floors, exterior concrete flooring is a durable option. The sturdy structure will save you, or future homeowners, money on maintenance and repairs (in comparison to some other types of building materials).
Cost-effectiveness. Unlike stones or pavers, concrete will add value without also adding intense expenses. While pricey stones and individual pavers can create a decorative design with superior aesthetics, they can also break your home improvement budget.

Along with the patio area, you can also extend the concrete to other backyard or side-yard spaces. A continual design throughout your property (with the same stamped or stained concrete) can pull the look of the exterior area together and change the face of your yard.

Do you need help with a concrete project? Contact Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc. , for more information.

TIPS FOR DESIGNING A CREATIVE CONCRETE PATIO

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Homeowners sometimes take creative liberty when they design outdoor spaces. They may feel the need to stay within décor norms for the house but allow their creativity free reign when it comes to outdoor areas, like a patio. If you're designing a new or updated patio, consider approaching the project with creative flair.

Make the Shape Freeform

One of the big advantages of concrete over other paving materials is contractors pour it rather than fit it together, as they would with pavers. Therefore, they can make your patio into any shape they can create a form for. In other words, almost any shape is possible. In this case, consider choosing a freeform shape, which consists of attractive arcs and curves.

Before the contractors you hire pour the concrete, observe the space you have. Look for creative ways the patio can occupy that space. For example, the flooring can sweep around the entry door and gradually narrow down to nothing at the base of a foundation garden. You can even incorporate other concrete structures, such as planters or a fire pit, into the flooring.

If you have an existing patio, look for ways to augment the shape. For example, you can soften corners with round planters. You can also extend a concrete path so it hugs part of the line of the existing patio, thus making the shape more amorphous.

Devise Stamping to Pattern the Surface

No matter the shape of your patio, you can add more of your creative flair with patterning on the surface.

With a freshly-poured patio, you can have the contractors stamp the surface. While it's common to have the concrete stamped to resemble another material, such as brick, that's not your only option. Rough or sanded stone stamps can add texture without mimicking another material. That said, you can have parts of the concrete stamped with a stone or brick pattern to enhance the patio's shape and add variety.

If you're updating an existing patio, you have a couple options. You can resurface it, during which time the contractors can stamp the thin layer of concrete they just applied. Another option is to add the pattern to the new concrete you add to change the shape. For example, if you add a sweeping path at the edge, consider having it stamped with a fan pattern to emphasize the curve.

Add Color

Another common technique for any concrete patio installation is adding color. Contractors have two main techniques for adding color - stains and dyes. With staining, they apply a stain that reacts chemically with the concrete. For dying, they apply a colorant that seeps into the concrete. They can use the two congruently or separately.

Dying is the process that yields the brightest color. If you want a truly creative floor, such as one featuring a mural or graphic shapes, the contractors will probably use dye.

Staining is ideal if you want to keep the coloration subtle. The process allows you to be playful with shapes and gradients of color. For example, you could have the contractors apply one stain along the edge and fade it into a different, analogous color.

Consider Incorporating Aggregates

Exposed aggregate is another common concrete technique. The contractors mix the aggregate into the concrete and power wash the top layer to expose it - hence, the name.

The aggregate you choose can add both color and texture. So, you can use it in conjunction with your coloration and stamping processes to create a unique design. For instance, the contractors can finish most of the patio in beige aggregate and border it with stamped concrete colored a deeper shade.

Another way contractors can add aggregate is by seeding it after they've poured the slab. With this process, they can stick with the usual river rock or add more colorful materials, such as glass beads. Indeed, this process is common with swimming pool liners. It can translate beautifully to your creative patio.

Make your patio unique with creative applications of common decorative concrete processes. Carolina Concrete Designs Inc can make your vision a reality.

AN OVERVIEW OF 3 TYPES OF DECORATIVE CONCRETE

Fri, 31 May 2019 16:00:00 GMT

When you think of concrete, you might think of driveways that are made out of a hard grey material that is quite drab-looking. You may be surprised to know however, that you can make concrete look aesthetically pleasing.

While colored concrete was developed way back in 1915, decorative concrete was invented a little more recently in the 1950s. Ever since then, decorative concrete has been increasing in popularity and has become a preferred type of flooring for patios, pool decks, driveways, and walkways.

Whether you have been thinking about installing a new driveway or sprucing up an existing concrete surface, decorative concrete is a great option. Because there are different types of decorative concrete, it might be hard to choose the right kind for your project. In order to help you decide, here is a brief overview about three types of decorative concrete.

1. Stamped Concrete

This type of decorative concrete looks like patterned concrete, which is why it is sometimes called that. Stamped concrete is usually dyed or shaped to resemble cobblestone, bricks, and even wood.

Thanks to the many colors and patterns that are available, stamped concrete is extremely versatile, which is why it is used for a number of flooring projects including pool decks, entryways, sidewalks, and patios. Besides being versatile and aesthetically pleasing, many homeowners choose stamped concrete because of the many benefits it provides.

Some of these benefits include:

The installation process is less labor intensive than other types of flooring.
It's easy to clean and does not require a lot of maintenance.
It helps to increase the resale value of property.

On average, stamped concrete costs $2,822 to install 500 square feet. This price includes the cost of materials and labor.

2. Polymer Overlay

If you want to give existing concrete a new fresh look, installing polymer overlay is a great way to do it. This is especially true if you are hoping to:

Add a pattern or color to an older concrete slab
Resurface your interior floors
Smooth out uneven pieces of concrete

Polymer overlay also works well if you want to quickly restore your old, outdated concrete flooring. Many homeowners prefer installing polymer overlay because it is easy to install, plus it makes flooring more durable while reducing the amount of maintenance required.

For the most part, polymer overlay works extremely well, but you should not use polymer overlays in certain circumstances. If the concrete is not structurally sound, or the concrete contains too much damage, you should avoid installing polymer overlay.

On average, it costs anywhere between $300 and $2,000 per 100 square feet to resurface concrete.

3. Acid Stain

If you want to simply add color to your existing concrete, you may want to consider acid stain. Acid stain is made by combining water, acid, and inorganic salts. Unlike paint and traditional stains, the acid stain solution reacts with alkali in the concrete in order to form a permanently colored surface that is ideal for indoor flooring.

Acid stains produces colors in earth-tones only and the exact color it produces is dependent upon the color and condition of the existing flooring. Besides not chipping or fading, other benefits of acid stained concrete include flooring that looks expensive but is actually quite affordable and low maintenance.

On average, it costs $1,574 for 500 square feet to install acid stain.

If you still have questions about what type of decorative concrete will work for your project, contact Carolina Concrete Designs Inc. We have been installing high quality stamped and decorative concrete since 1991 and would love to help you find the right look for your patio, driveway, courtyard, or whatever else you have in mind.

MAKE A BOLD INTERIOR DESIGN STATEMENT WITH CONCRETE FLOORS

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 16:00:00 GMT

A home's interior should reflect the style sense and aesthetic of the homeowners. You probably don't associate the gray concrete used to make sidewalks and driveways with style, but concrete can be brought indoors to make a bold style statement.

Concrete is used to create surfaces that must withstand heavy traffic for a reason. Concrete is durable and easy to maintain. These attributes make a concrete floor the perfect addition to any busy family home.

All you need is a little creativity and the right tools to transform concrete floors from drab and institutional to a major style feature within your home.

Dyes and Stains

Experienced concrete installers can utilize dyes and stains to give your concrete floors some color. These coloring agents produce unique colors and patterns that will help your concrete flooring make a bold statement within your living space.

Dyes can be either water or solvent soluble, and they are added to concrete during the mixing phase. The dye particles penetrate the pores of the concrete aggregate, changing the physical appearance of the mix. If you want a more marbled look, then go with a water-soluble dye. Solvent-soluble dyes tend to create a more uniform color pattern.

Stains are not applied directly to the concrete mix. These products are applied over the top of cured concrete. The stain etches the color into the surface of the concrete floor.

Keep in mind that the appearance of the stain in the bottle might be different from the appearance of the stain after it interacts with the concrete. You should always complete a small test patch when using a stain to ensure that you end up with the color you desire.

Stamped Patterns

Homeowners who want the appearance of natural stone or brick floors without the additional maintenance these materials require can benefit from stamped concrete. To make stamped concrete, contractors use rubber stamps to impress a design into the surface of poured concrete as it cures.

The contractors will tint the poured concrete with an integral color that they mix into the concrete at the factory. This serves as the base color for your flooring. Then they add an accent color to the release agent, which prevents the rubber stamp from sticking to the concrete.

Once they have stamped and cured the entire floor surface, they'll wash the floor to reveal the underlying color pattern created by the base and accent colors. Lastly, the contractor will apply a sealant over the top of the stamped concrete to help lend added durability to the surface.

Stamped patterns are a great option for homeowners looking to add interest and prestige to their homes while still keeping maintenance requirement low.

Polymer Overlays

A polymer overlay is the answer to existing concrete floors that need to be updated. It isn't cost effective to tear out old concrete and pour new flooring to dye, stain, or stamp. Instead, you can have contractors apply a polymer-modified material directly over the top of the existing concrete surface.

The overlay restores the appearance of the floor, and it can even be slick-finished and acid-stained to create a unique aesthetic.

If you are thinking about featuring concrete flooring in your home, many options are available to help you achieve the designer look you desire. Adding color to plain concrete through dyes or stains and using rubber stamps to create interesting patterns can help transform drab, gray concrete into a show-stopping surface.

Contact Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc. , for more information. We can show you how to integrate concrete flooring into your home to make a bold interior design statement.

4 TIMES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER CHANGING YOUR DRIVEWAY

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 16:00:00 GMT

Your home's driveway affects how your property looks and how well it works. It's also one part of home maintenance that many homeowners overlook. Replacing a driveway, though, can have a lot of benefits and provides an easy makeover.

So what are the signs that it's time to replace your old driveway? Here are a few to look for.

1. It's Reaching the Expiration Date

Driveways, like all parts of your home, aren't capable of lasting forever. Most concrete driveways have an estimated lifespan of about 15 to 20 years . Harsh winter weather, regular storms, and heavy vehicle use can all reduce that lifespan and age a driveway prematurely.

If your driveway is getting old enough to approach its natural expiration date, you'll see more problems like cracking, potholes, fading, and pitting. Temporary solutions also won't last as long as they did when the concrete was young. It's probably time to look at a more permanent solution rather than pouring more money into repairs.

2. You're Renovating the Home

Are you undertaking a big remodeling project at home? Even as you invest in any major updating of the home's public areas, yard, or outdoor living area, an old and unsightly driveway could take the shine off your hard work. Updating much of the house but leaving an ugly driveway entrance could reduce your return on investment just like only massively updating a single room in the home could. Why? It draws unwanted attention to what's old and outdated.

Make sure that the driveway matches your new vision for the home. Are you, for example, remodeling to add space to entertain more? Consider expanding the driveway so that you can fit more cars as well. Are the renovations to modernize an older home? Then perhaps you can match that modernization with an updated stamped concrete driveway featuring a geometric design. Going for a cozier look at home? Try softening the driveway by adding a curved or delicate design.

3. The Neighborhood Has Rising Values

Just like an aging, cracked, or inadequate driveway can damage the value of renovations, it may also lower the value you get from living in a rising neighborhood. Appearing to be the "worst house on the block" will undoubtedly affect your own home values.

A old and worn driveway could also bring down the neighbors' home values as well, creating a rippling effect that benefits no one. Your HOA may also have rules about the appearance of front yard hardscape that requires you to make improvements.

4. Your Needs Have Changed

Many homeowners fail to realize how much impact their driveway has on the functionality of their home. And if they do notice its inefficiency, they often just put up with the problem. But just like your home should change with your family's changing needs, your driveway should as well.

Has your family grown, perhaps as teenagers started driving their own cars? Have older kids moved out, leaving you with a big driveway that's never utilized? Are you home more after retirement and now have time to enjoy more gardening? Would you like to buy a trailer, RV, or outdoor toys, but have nowhere to house them?

You're not stuck with the driveway that came with the house. You can alter, widen, shrink down, stamp or even move your driveway to fit your new needs.

No matter whether your aging driveway doesn't look like it used to or your home and needs have changed, making this one big alteration can dramatically improve the look of your entire property. At Carolina Concrete Designs Inc , we can help you turn that old concrete into a new addition that fits your life and your home. Call today to get started!

3 WAYS CONTRACTORS CREATE EXPOSED AGGREGATE CONCRETE

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 16:00:00 GMT

One of the most popular styles of decorative concrete today goes by the name of exposed aggregate concrete. Such concrete has a unique visual quality, one that homeowners can custom tailor through their selection of decorative aggregate. Furthermore, the textured surface makes exposed aggregate concrete a great choice for increasing traction in high traffic areas like pool decks.

Many homeowners shy away from exposed aggregate concrete, assuming that it is difficult - and costly - to install. Yet contractors can actually create exposed aggregate surfaces using a variety of different techniques. This article outlines three different methods used in creating exposed aggregate concrete.

1. Manual Brushing

The oldest method of installing exposed aggregate also happens to be the simplest - at least from the materials and tools standpoint. First, contractors install the concrete slab according to normal methods, erecting forms, pouring the concrete, leveling it with a screed, and allowing it to partially cure.

Next, contractors must carefully gauge the right time to begin the exposing process. The concrete should cure to the point that any water sheen has entirely disappeared from the surface. At this point, the concrete should support the body weight of a worker without compressing, shifting, or otherwise deflecting.

Beginning at one corner of the slab, the contractor now uses a hose to wet the surface of the concrete. The water loosens up the top layer of cement paste. Workers then expose aggregate by brushing the wet cement with a nylon bristled brush, progressively pushing the water and cement mixture across the slab.

The installer must complete the brushing and washing process in a single pass. Wetting and brushing the concrete a second time causes excessive weakening in the remaining cement paste. As a result, aggregate particles stand a greater chance of working free overtime. After washing, the contractor may choose to retrowel the surface to ensure thorough aggregate adhesion.

2. Surface Retarders

Surface retarders consist of chemical treatments that workers apply to the surface of the slab early in the curing process - generally soon after all of the bleed water has finished dissipated. Surface retarders prevent the cement paste at the top of the concrete from hardening. Meanwhile, however, all of the deeper concrete continues to cure as normal.

Surface retarders make exposing aggregate easier in several regards. First of all, they increase the window of time a contractor has to complete the installation by preventing the hydration process from occurring at the normal rate. This delay proves especially beneficial when working in hot or windy conditions, which would otherwise accelerate the rate of curing.

Surface retarders also make it easier to remove cement paste from the surface. Some contractors use a broom to remove the paste, while others simply use a hose or pressure washer. In any case, surface retarders allow contractors to control the depth of exposure to a greater degree.

3. Sandblasting

The third method of exposing aggregate takes a much different approach. Here, the contractor allows the concrete to harden completely, then uses a sandblaster to abrade cement from the surface. This technique may even be used on pre-existing concrete slabs, although the results will only be as attractive as the aggregate in the concrete.

Sandblasting alleviates concerns about completing the exposure within an appropriate time window. That said, this technique can have an adverse effect on the aggregate. A blaster with too much power may dull or even damage the aggregate and negatively impact not only its appearance, but also its structural stability.

Each of the techniques used to expose concrete aggregate has its own strengths and weaknesses. For more information about the most effective method for achieving your dream patio or pool deck, please contact our concrete pros at Carolina Concrete Designs Inc.

3 KEY THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT POLYMER OVERLAY

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Experts have long considered concrete one of the most cost-effective and durable building materials. Yet that well-earned prestige hasn't stopped the world of concrete from continuing to develop new and innovative techniques. One of the most exciting new trends in concrete design goes by the name of polymer overlay.

The relative newness of polymer overlay means that many people outside of the concrete industry remain unfamiliar with this technique. Unfortunately, such people often fail to capitalize on the unique benefits of polymer overlay. This article seeks to improve your knowledge by introducing three key facts regarding polymer overlay.

1. Polymer Overlays Have Both Functional and Decorative Uses

Once upon a time, the only option once a concrete floor had reached the end of its lifespan and begun to degrade was to break it out and pour an entire new slab. As you can imagine, this process requires huge time and labor commitments, and can be quite disruptive. The costs of a complete removal also tend to be unacceptably high for many people.

Polymer overlays allow contractors to restore an aging concrete floor to like-new condition with a fraction of the effort and time. In addition to correcting spalling, cracks, and other forms of surface damage, you can use a polymer overlay to level tilted floors and to add traction to slippery, high-traffic areas.

Yet polymer overlays don't simply fulfill a pragmatic function. You can also use them for decorative purposes, offering an easy way to revamp the aesthetic makeup of a home or business. Polymer overlays also come in a virtually endless range of colors. You can use stamps to give the overlay indented lines that mimic the appearance of natural paving materials.

2. Polymer Overlays Are Thinner Than Other Overlays

Concrete overlays have existed for several decades now. Yet those overlays, which did not contain polymer additives, had to be considerably thicker in order to withstand the stresses of daily use and abuse. Even then, such overlays often end up succumbing to the same issues that damaged the original slab.

Only more recently have contractors begun to implement overlay blends that include polymer resins. Contractors can incorporate a variety of different polymers, depending on the specific attributes required by the designer.

Yet virtually all polymers give an overlay clear advantages in terms of both strength and flexibility - so much so that builders have successfully used them for resurfacing automotive bridges.

The advantages of polymer overlays are so great that they can be effective even contractors apply them in much thinner layers. Even a polymer overlay with a thickness less than 1/4" can provide years of reliable results.

3. Sub-Base Preparation Determines Overlay Bonding Success

While the advantages of polymer overlays may be clear cut, you must install them properly in order to ensure the best results. Here, the most important factor involves properly preparing the sub-base - the pre-existing layer of concrete atop which a professional will place the overlay.

Simply pressure washing the bonding surface won't be enough to ensure a strong bond. Instead, experienced contractors roughen the surface using a diamond grinder. Roughening up the concrete increases its overall surface area, helping the overlay create as strong a bond as possible.

After grinding the surface, a professional will thoroughly wash it to remove all dust and debris. Then the overlay installer will allow the sub-base to dry thoroughly. Any moisture present in the slab may impact the strength of the overlay's bond.

Polymer overlays have revolutionized the world of concrete resurfacing, giving contractors an exciting new way to restore concrete floors. For more information about whether a polymer overlay would be a good choice for your needs, please contact the pros at Carolina Concrete Designs Inc.

3 EXCITING NEW TRENDS IN THE WORLD OF CONCRETE

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Concrete is one of the most widely used of all paving and building materials; in addition, it is also one of the hardest and most durable materials. Perhaps for that reason, many people assume that the world of concrete stopped evolving and growing long ago.

However, concrete actually continues to undergo exciting new developments, whether in technique, application, or even its fundamental makeup. If you would like to learn more about some of the developments currently making news in the concrete world, then keep reading. This article will outline three very different yet equally exciting concrete trends.

1. Hand Tooled and Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete has become a highly popular choice for paving outdoor areas such as pool decks and patios. Stamped concrete allows you to simulate natural paving materials like slate and stone -at a fraction of the cost.

After pouring the concrete, the contractors press plastic mats into the wet surface. Removing the mats leaves behind imprinted lines that make it look like the pavement consists of separate pieces.

While stamps can successfully mimic more expensive forms of paving, those with especially keen eyes may find the results still too crude. The repeated order in which the mats are laid down often creates patterns that give the true nature of the pavement away. However, many people don't notice these patterns or use different colors of concrete to avoid a patterned look.

To help enhance the illusion of natural paving materials, some contractors apply seamless texture skins to the surface to give it a rougher, more natural appearance. Then, they use special saws and hand tool to secure the joints. This approach means that the concrete will end up with a one-of-a-kind surface pattern.

2. Self-Healing Concrete

Water is perhaps the single greatest threat to concrete. Concrete has a naturally porous make-up that readily absorbs water and other liquids. Should that water then freeze, the force of its expansion will often cause cracks to form. Once this process has begun, it will grow with quickening speed, since the growing cracks will permit more and more water to accumulate.

Historically, the only way to stop this process involved filling cracks with a special sealant. Yet, even then, sealants often failed when exposed to the same kinds of stresses that caused the crack in the first place. Sealing can only slow down the process of cracks - not stop it completely.

Scientists in the Netherlands have recently developed a new approach to the problem of crack prevention: self-healing concrete. While this may sound like something straight out of science fiction, the technology is quite real. Self-healing concrete incorporates a species of bacteria into the initial mix.

Known as bacillus bacteria, these microorganisms lies dormant in the hardened concrete where its spores can continue to exist for many years. As cracks form in the concrete, however, the bacteria will finally be exposed to water.

This water releases calcium lactate, a food source for the bacteria, who then start eating. As they eat the bacteria begin to produce the substance known as limestone, which effectively plugs up the crack.

3. Concrete Speakers

According to Home Crux, the appeal of concrete has not been lost on the world of speaker design. After all, concrete possesses both a heavy and a still nature. These qualities make concrete a highly effective way to isolate audio speakers from unwanted vibrations. Recognizing this, a surprising number of manufacturers have released speakers that use concrete bodies.

On an acoustic level, these speakers excel. Perhaps even more surprisingly, these concrete speakers also possess a unique appearance, one that has proven exceptionally popular among audiophiles.

For more information on the continuing evolution of concrete as a building and design material, please contact the concrete experts at Carolina Concrete Designs Inc.

3 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT ACID STAINING CONCRETE

Sat, 09 Jun 2018 16:00:00 GMT

More and more people are choosing to install concrete floors in their home, thanks to the wide variety of customizing techniques available today. After all, a concrete floor can successfully blend in with a wide variety of different color schemes and decorating styles. One of the most versatile ways to augment a concrete floor involves the application of an acid stain.

Acid staining can bring one-of-a-kind appeal to a concrete floor. Yet, that doesn't mean acid staining will be a good choice in all situations. Before you choose to have your concrete floor acid stained, it's important to learn as much as you can about the process. This article will discuss three key things you should know about acid staining concrete.

1. Acid Staining Doesn't Work on Machine Troweled Floors

Acid staining creates unique patterns on a concrete surface, allowing it to mimic the sorts of variations that occur in natural materials like stone and slate. The stain does so through the action of special inorganic metallic salts.

When dissolved in a solution of acid and water, these salts react on a chemical level with the concrete. This chemical reaction alters the appearance of the concrete and causes a strong bond between the stain and the concrete.

Of course, in order to be effective, the stain must be able to seep down into the concrete. For most floors, this is no problem. After all, concrete is a naturally porous substance.

However, acid staining won't work as well with concrete floors that have been machine troweled. The machine troweling process creates a highly smooth surface - one that is simply too smooth to receive an acid stain. The stain won't be able to pierce into the pores. Instead, the stain will sit on the surface, where it will ultimately be wiped away during the cleaning process.

2. Acid Stains Should Be Protected With Sealer or Floor Wax

Compared to other methods of augmenting concrete, acid staining possesses excellent longevity. This stems from the chemical reason and porous nature of concrete. By contrast, paint and other methods of concrete coloring remain on the surface. This makes them more likely to flake and chip away as time goes on.

Of course, you should be aware that even an acid stain will begin to fade over time. As the surface of your concrete suffers wear from foot traffic or weather exposure, the stain will gradually lighten and lose its luster. Those who want to ensure optimal results for the longest period of time should be prepared to apply either a sealer or a floor wax to their concrete.

3. Cleanliness Is Key

As noted above, an acid stain reacts with your concrete on a chemical level, rather than simply sitting on the surface. In order to react fully and correctly, your concrete must be squeaky clean before applying the acid stain. Substances like adhesive, oil, and sealer may inhibit the chemical reaction at the heart of an acid stain.

Likewise, dirt or debris will interfere with the process - on a chemical level, or simply by preventing the stain from soaking into the floor the way it should. Cleanliness is the single largest factor when it comes to the acid stain. Consult with an experienced contractor about the best products for cleaning your floor prior to application.

Acid staining yields unique and highly attractive results for most concrete floors. For more information about how to ensure the best possible results from your concrete staining project, please contact our experts at Carolina Concrete Designs Inc. Our team can help with a variety of concrete projects. We look forward to working with you.

UNDERSTANDING AND AVOIDING DISCOLORED CONCRETE

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 16:00:00 GMT

The process of installing concrete may seem relatively simple on the surface. Yet the deeper your understanding of concrete goes, the more you can appreciate the nuance involved in installing it correctly. Homeowners and contractors who attempt to install concrete without proper knowledge often run into unintended consequences down the line.

One common issue encountered by less than experienced concrete installers involves an abnormal amount of discoloration. This problem typically stems from problems during the curing phase. If you would like to learn more about what causes discolored concrete, as well as what it takes to successfully avoid it, read on. This article will provide a useful overview of the subject.

THE CURING PHASE

As noted above, concrete discolorations tend to occur during the curing phase. Curing happens after the contractor has poured the concrete. During this process, water and cement molecules undergo a chemical reaction that results in the concrete hardening. Curing tends to be a slow process and may take several days before the concrete has reached a fully hardened state.

While undergoing the curing process, concrete can be quite vulnerable to certain problems. The most common involves an excessive amount of water evaporating out of the surface. This will negatively affect the curing process, resulting in weaker and more damage-prone concrete.

To protect against evaporation, contractors will cover the surface of the concrete during curing. This prevents water from evaporating outward. Historically, natural materials like sand and straw were piled up on top of the concrete. These days, however, it is much more common for contractors to use a thin sheet of plastic.

Sheets are carefully draped across the surface of the concrete, known as curing membranes. There they form a watertight barrier, preventing water from escaping out of the surface. In order to be effective, however, the membrane must sit flush against the entire surface of the concrete.

MEMBRANE BUBBLES

Discoloration tends to be a product of incorrectly applied curing membrane. The specific issue at fault are the bubbled areas of the membrane. Such bubbles often form in areas where the membrane was not pulled tight enough during installation. The larger the size of the concrete slab, the easier it will be for workers to overlook bubbled areas.

These bubbles lead to an unwanted phenomenon known as the greenhouse effect. As the surface of the membrane heats up, water will evaporate out of the concrete and condense again at the top of the bubble. There it will roll back down the sides and onto the surface of the concrete, where it will collect in pools before evaporating once more.

The presence of this water alters the chemical reaction taking place in the concrete. Essentially it overhydrates the concrete in certain areas. Discolorations are one of the most commonly experienced side effects of this phenomenon. These discolorations will permanently affect the appearance of the concrete.

PREVENTING DISCOLORATION

It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out the solution to discolorations caused by the greenhouse effect. You must take extreme care when placing the curing membrane. Workers will need to reposition the membrane as necessary in order to eliminate any bubbles that form in the course of laying it down.

A reputable contractor will check - and then recheck - to ensure that the membrane lies in direct contact with the entire concrete slab. The sooner you can identify any problem areas, the less chance that they will lead to permanent discolorations in your concrete. For more information about what it takes to get the best results when installing your next concrete surface, please don't hesitate to contact our industry experts at Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc.

A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO CONCRETE SEALERS

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 08:59:10 GMT

As you surely know by now, concrete is one of the most durable and long-lasting of all paving materials. For this reason, more and more people are turning to concrete, even choosing to use it for indoor flooring. The rise of decorative concrete has accelerated this trend, allowing concrete to satisfy a versatile range of aesthetic formats.

Of course, concrete must be protected in order to ensure an optimal lifespan. Concrete sealers are the best way to accomplish this. Unfortunately, many people fail to understand the basics about concrete sealers. If you would like to improve your knowledge about how to protect a concrete floor, read on. This article will provide a useful overview of the different types of concrete sealer currently on the market.

Penetrating Sealers

The most basic distinction among concrete sealers is whether they belong to the category known as penetrating sealers or that of film forming sealers. Penetrating sealers are the go-to choice where protection is the most criteria. These sealers are distinguished by the fact that, as you might guess from their name, they actually move down into the concrete.

This gives the concrete three-dimensional protection. By sealing the concrete from within its network of capillaries, a penetrating sealer ensures that your concrete will be protected no matter what happens at the surface. This makes penetrating sealers a great choice for garage floors and other surfaces that see heavy use and abuse.

Penetrating sealers also offer excellent protection against cycles of freezing and thawing. This helps make the concrete less susceptible to such issues as pitting and spalling. The matte finish of a penetrating sealer will also allow the concrete to retain its natural traction. Both of these facts make penetrating sealers an excellent choice for protecting exterior concrete.

Film Forming Sealers

Film-forming sealers operate in a much different manner than penetrating sealers. As their name would imply, film-forming sealers act to form a hard, water impermeable barrier on the surface of the concrete. This film allows the sealer to be buffed and polished, thus yielding a highly attractive surface finish, one that is especially well suited for indoor decorative concrete.

Film-forming sealers can be broken down into three different types, according to their principal ingredient:

Each of these substances has its own unique set of strengths. Acrylic sealers merit praise for their ability to augment decorative varieties of concrete such as colored, stamped, or exposed aggregate concrete. An acrylic sealer will dry to a glass-like state of transparency, allowing the underlying features of the concrete to be exposed in all their glory.

Those who opt for an acrylic sealer should recognize that it will need regular maintenance. As it ages, it will also likely need to be buffed and polished to remove the scuffs and scratches that will accumulate. Floor wax can help to reduce the accumulation of such imperfections, at least in the short term.

Polyurethane and epoxy-based concrete sealers boast a higher degree of resistance to normal wear and tear. This means they will require less intensive maintenance efforts, making them a great choice for high traffic areas. The principal distinction between polyurethane and epoxy sealers is that the latter can be tinted to allow them to integrate with the color scheme of the underlying concrete.

Bottom Line

Concrete is more than just a floor- it is an investment in the future of your home or commercial property. Do yourself a favor and respect your investment by having your concrete sealed. This will act to both protect and beautify your floors. For more information, feel free to contact the experts at Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc.

THE BENEFITS OF CONCRETE COUNTERTOPS IN YOUR KITCHEN

Sun, 25 Dec 2016 08:55:20 GMT

With sleek, beautiful finishing, easy customization and a lower cost than marble or granite, it’s no wonder concrete countertops are quickly becoming a popular choice for Kitchens across the country. Some of the benefits of using concrete in your kitchen include:

CUSTOM DESIGN AND EDGING

Because concrete is cast in a semi-liquid state before turning rock hard, it is easy to custom design counters to perfectly fit your kitchen. The experts at Carolina Concrete Designs Inc specialize in working with customers to create stunning counters no matter how big or small your kitchen is. Creating a decorative edge or adding inlays are also simple and will add a little pop to your design.

COST EFFECTIVE AND LONG LASTING

Concrete counters will cost you less and last forever. Once the concrete has been cured and sealed, your counters are likely to outlast your house! And to top it off, concrete is typically a much less expensive way to get amazing custom countertops when compared to marble, granite and even some laminates.

For more information about how you can have custom concrete counters installed in your kitchen or bathroom, contact the design and installation professionals at Carolina Concrete Design today!

TIPS ON HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR CONCRETE

Thu, 13 Oct 2016 08:50:39 GMT

Any type of flooring you choose will require some type of maintenance. Even concrete floors need to be cared for properly to keep them looking their best. So how exactly do you maintain your decorative concrete? This will depend on how much traffic the area receives. Residential concrete floors generally need proper cleaning to make them last. Below are some care and cleaning tips to follow.

WAX AND SEALER

If your concrete is not polished, it is a good idea to use a floor sealer. This helps the concrete to last and enhances the appearance. Additionally, floor wax can be used to protect the concrete against abrasions and stains. Wax helps to preserve the sealer as well, and it is easy to apply.

FLOOR MATS

Heavier traffic areas can become worn quicker, so it is a good idea to use floor mats. They reduce wear and tear to the floor and cut down on maintenance.

DAMP MOPPING

When it comes to keeping dirt and dust at a minimum, damp mopping does the trick. Remember to sweep first to pick up larger debris and crumbs. It is important to stick to using cleaning solutions recommended for concrete. Microfiber pads work well, and ensure you use clean water. Additionally, clean up spills and stains as soon as possible, as they can be absorbed by the concrete. To learn more about concrete floor care, call Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc. at 828-891-4742 .

THREE REASONS TO LOOK INTO ACID STAINED CONCRETE

Wed, 24 Aug 2016 08:46:14 GMT

When it comes to choosing new flooring for your home, your choice will probably be influenced by factors like cost, durability and maintenance. Some choices may be affordable yet difficult to maintain, or durable yet costly. If you want a material that may satisfy all of the above requirements, then you might want to look into acid stained concrete .

ACID STAINED CONCRETE IS HIGHLY DURABLE

Tile floors comprised of porcelain, slate or ceramic may chip or crack over time or if heavy objects are dropped on the tiles. Carpeting can pill, stain or tear. However, acid stained concrete resists chipping and breaking and is stronger than most over materials, making them a good choice if you are looking for a flooring material that can last for years.

IT IS EASY TO CLEAN

Acid stained concrete requires little maintenance and only minimal cleaning. These floors can be kept looking new with a few simple steps:

The low cost of keeping your floor clean can be an added benefit when considering acid stained concrete.

IT SUPPORTS INDOOR AIR QUALITY

If you or anyone in your family suffers from allergies, then acid stained concrete may be a viable flooring choice. Unlike carpeting, it does not foster the growth of mold or retain allergens. As a result, the quality of the air in your home may be improved. For more information about how acid stained concrete floors may be beneficial for your home, call Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc. at 828-891-4742 .

BENEFITS AND OPTIONS THAT COME WITH POLYMER OVERLAYS

Wed, 29 Jun 2016 08:39:19 GMT

Polymer overlays are the thinnest concrete overlays. Therefore, many may not be aware how many options are available when putting these overlays to use. There are many possibilities which will be outlined here.

The Thinnest Overlays can be Placed Over Existing Messy Concrete

Since polymer overlays are the thinnest, they can help to transform any existing concrete mess. Anything that needs to be smoothed and updated to reduce the appearance of blemishes that could lead more directly to accidents or injuries.

Polymer Overlays can be Customized Just Like Other Types of Overlays

Although it may seem they are too thin to be customizable on the same level as thicker overlays, a polymer overlay can still be improved upon with a myriad of types of designs. Everything from acid wash to brooming to slick finish can be added to a polymer overlay to give it the look and feel necessary for jobs in a variety of locations.

Enjoy the Customization of the Right Polymer Overlay for You

With so many options available when it comes to polymer overlays, it is possible to be pleasantly surprised when considering what is really out there. Quite a bit is easily done, leading to an impressive finish which many may never expect. Lend the right feel to any concrete improvement project with a polymer overlay. For more information on the right overlay design, call Carolina Concrete Designs, Inc. at 828-891-4742 .

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT STAMPED CONCRETE PATTERN FOR YOUR HOME

Fri, 29 Apr 2016 08:35:33 GMT

Stamped concrete is an economical alternative to pavers and natural stone. It is used for patios, driveways and pool decks. When properly installed and maintained, stamped concrete can last for decades.

Stamped concrete comes in an infinite combination of colors and patterns. Natural stone patterns such as slate and fieldstone are popular choices. Concrete stains and finishes can produce some interesting effects as well.

CREATE YOUR DESIGN

Since your new surface will last a lifetime, choose a design that will blend in with your existing decor. Here are some ideas that apply to specific areas of your home:

When choosing a stamped concrete pattern for your home, visit recent installations to see the beauty and versatility of this amazing material. Contact Carolina Concrete Designs Inc. to get started on your own stamped concrete project today.