Decorative Concrete Resurfacing http://www.decorativeconcreteresurfacing.com/services/residential-concrete-resurfacing 636-256-6733 - Is decorative concrete for you? Decorative Concrete Resurfacing http://www.decorativeconcreteresurfacing.com 636-256-6733 715 Debula Ave Ellisville, MO 63021

1. Decorative Concrete – Do I Need It or Not?
When you imagine concrete, chances are good you picture the same thing as the rest of
us – a durable surface that can withstand years of abuse, but one that’s not exactly
“eye-catching”. Most of us thing of concrete as boring and drab and, in most instances,
that’s a pretty accurate description. However, it doesn’t have to be. Decorative concrete
can provide some significant advantages in terms of aesthetics. Do you need it, though?
The Real Answer
For most people, the answer to the question posed above is “it depends”. If all you want
is a basic surface that will withstand weathering and offer you a firm surface for pretty
much any use, then no, you don’t need to worry about decorative concrete. However, if
you want something more than just “the basics”, then yes, you do need to consider it.
What should you know about it, though? Where can it be used?
Patios
One of the prime locations for using this type of concrete is on your patio or pool deck.
In fact, it’s really an ideal solution for use around swimming pools because the
decorative process can also lend itself to making it a nonslip surface, ensuring better
safety for your entire family. Of course, it’s a great way to bring your indoor style and
design outdoors, or you can create a separate visual theme around the pool or on your
patio. From tropical islands to elegant baroque and gothic motifs, virtually anything is
possible.
Driveways
Another excellent use of decorative concrete is for driveways. Most concrete drives in
the US are gray, boring and utilitarian. However, take a look at some of the higher-end
homes and you’ll find something surprising. Many of them incorporate stylistic elements
in the driveway, from cobbles to slate and combinations of designs. You can achieve
the same look for your own driveway with a new concrete overlay or stamped design.
Myriad Possibilities
If you have decided to consider this option, you’ll need to know a bit more about how
concrete is decorated. There are two primary methods here – coloring and stamping.
Both offer an incredible range of possibilities, and they can be used in conjunction to
help you achieve exactly the look and feel that you want. In terms of colors, concrete
can be stained almost any color you might want. This allows you to match the exterior
colors of your home, or go for a contrasting color scheme if you want. Stamping is
exactly what it sounds like, and allows you to embed designs within the concrete itself.

2. Design possibilities run the gamut from things like fleur-de-lis to patterning that allows
you to make decorative concrete mimic other materials (stone, brick, cobbles and even
wood are popular options).
New Pour or Resurface?
You have two choices when it comes to decorating concrete. You can choose to have a
new cement surface poured, which will require that any existing concrete be demolished
and removed first, or you can go with a resurfacing job. Obviously, resurfacing is going
to be the most affordable option, and is usually the better choice for homeowners.