Heat of Hydration of Concrete

The art of mixing and pouring concrete is, in fact, a science. The process by which cement, aggregates and water mix and form a new substance is a chemical process which has its own unique properties and products. The main product of the binding of cement and water is heat, which is given off during … Read more

7 Steps to a Successful Concrete Finish

Pouring and Placing a Concrete Slab When the concrete placement area is framed and firmly in place, it is ready to be filled with liquid concrete. However, pouring concrete only affords one time to get it right. There are numerous factors that must be considered and addressed before the concrete can be installed. This includes … Read more

How Much Does Decorative Concrete Cost?

Although this is a loaded question (and I might get some nasty feedback), I’ll give it a try based on my 15 years of concrete experience working in both the U.S. and Canada. I have done many different finishes, from epoxy to self-leveling concrete, to stamped overlays and stenciling. Consumer beware: There is always a … Read more

How To Install a Concrete Resurfacing System

This 8000 square foot floor was installed at the Seattle International Airport over the course of three nights with two experienced decorative concrete installers. The products used were, two thin micro topping coats over a properly cleaned and prepared substrate. Integral color was used on the second coat to give the overall color, but then additional … Read more

Questions To Ask A Concrete Contractor

When it’s time to choose a decorative concrete professional, how will you distinguish between a truly experienced contractor and a corner-cutting swindler? A little research and some educated questions can help you make the right decision and save you time, money and a lot of headaches. A little planning is the foundation of a successful … Read more

Concrete Finishing Techniques

Taking your surface to another level The reasons for creating an artistic pattern, border or stencil vary, but one thing is for sure decorative concrete will never be the same. When a simple colored concrete floor just won’t cut it and your budget allows for the addition of other decorative elements you just might want … Read more