Decorative concrete is becoming popular among many home designers, owners and builders these days. It\’s not at all that surprising, knowing that it provides more benefits than its counterparts. What used to look like gray, plain and boring construction material now comes with a new look that\’s capable of turning heads. But despite of such face lift, the affordability, flexibility and durability concrete always had is never lost in the transformation.

It\’s flexible enough to be used outdoors – driveways, garages, patios, entryways, backyards, pool decks, etc. Using it indoors is also possible, replacing the usually used tiles, vinyl, wood and carpet. In fact, it\’s so flexible that it may also be used for kitchen sinks and counter tops, other than for the usual flooring and walling purposes.

How it\’s given a new look is by means of several different processes or treatments used on the material. It can be colored or textured to resemble stone, bricks, slate and other similar and more expensive flooring or walling materials. Making it look like things that are commonly seen in nature is also possible, such as fossils, shells, sand, wood, etc. The list of surfaces or finishes to choose from is practically endless, particularly when different processes are combined.

Stamping is a process used to provide impression on its surface. Dyeing is applied through the use of ink dissolved in solvents such as alcohol, thinner, lacquer and acetone. Because the pigment may fade when exposed to the sun\’s UV rays, UV inhibiting materials are also added, especially for products which are meant to be laid out in outdoor settings.

Another means of adding color to the surface is acid staining. This method doesn\’t actually add color to it. What takes place is a chemical reaction between the surface and acid which produces such effect. But there is another way of coloring this building material, and that\’s by means of water-based staining. Many other processing or treatments are around, enabling the manufacturers to come up with unique and eye-catching designs – including custom made ones.

There are plenty of benefits to enjoy for choosing this material. Concrete\’s durability is something that\’s definitely undeniable. That\’s why builders go for it all the time. This same kind of durability is also exhibited by this product, although possessing a whole new look. Compared to other flooring materials, it can last longer as it can withstand extreme weather conditions and even years.

Another thing that makes it advantageous is the cheap price tag is has. If you\’re planning on renovating your home but under a certain budget, choosing this saves you from overshooting that budget you set. What\’s adding to the money-saving feature is the minimal maintenance required. Additionally, unlike wood or carpet, it\’s resistant to mold, dust and other allergens so you can provide a safe and healthy environment for your loved ones.

Decorative concrete doesn\’t look cheap and boring. At a fraction of the cost, it can look just as tasteful and elegant as counterparts that are more expensive. Other than looking attractive, it also provides functionality in an array of environments. Commercial areas, workplaces, domestic settings, indoors, outdoors – this building material provides flooring or walling solution that\’s inexpensive, durable, flexible and attention-grabbing.

Author Bio: Elite Concrete has won back to back HomeStars awards in 2008 and 2009 for their beautiful stamped concrete work. Servicing Toronto, GTA, Markham and Woodbridge – Elite Concrete is there for all your concrete contracting work. Vist www.eliteconcrete.ca to view the possibilities.

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