Concrete is a highly durable building material with an ancient history; as far back as 6500 BC, the Nabataeans in what is now Syria and Jordan were using concrete. The Romans took the use of concrete to the next level; the Roman Pantheon in Rome is a superb example of Roman concrete architecture. This incredible 2,000-year-old building remains in perfect condition to this day.
Today, there are a number of finishes that can help to preserve your concrete slabs, both indoors and outside.
Epoxy Finishes
Epoxy concrete finishes are not only extremely durable but also extremely beautiful. The epoxy can be tinted in any color you like, and can also imitate granite, marble, or other stones. Also, custom, artistic designs can be worked into the epoxy finish.
Epoxy finishes also resist oil and grease, making them ideal for use in a garage or any concrete floor. However, an epoxy finish can take up to a week to apply and cure.
Acrylic Render
Unlike epoxy finishes, acrylic rendering can be applied to both floors and walls. While acrylic rendering is flexible and water-resistant, it also breathes. This means your concrete has room to expand and contract, and the acrylic finish will not crack.
Acrylic render is clear, so it will not change the color or appearance of your concrete. However, you can easily paint over an acrylic render with any color that you like. Acrylic render is a popular choice for exterior walls.
Concrete Staining
Concrete staining is a five-step process that begins with a deep power washing, followed by a primer, stain, and sealant. The finishing touch is a light sprinkling of grit on the final topcoat, for a slip-resistant finish.
Concrete staining is popular for use around pool decks, patios, and driveways. The stains are available in several neutral shades of gray and tan. Concrete staining will last for years.
Concrete Sealers
There are several types of concrete sealers, including penetrating sealers, acrylic, polyurethane, and polyaspartic sealers. These sealers do not change the appearance of your concrete but do provide a water-resistant finish. Sealers can be an economical and fast-drying option.
As you can see, there are a number of concrete finishing options. You could do an acrylic render or apply a sealer yourself, while an epoxy finish or concrete staining is a job best left to a professional. In any case, concrete finishes enhance both the durability and beauty of concrete.
