Concrete can provide a very serviceable surface for many areas of a home or business. For example, concrete can be used to create beautiful countertops that are rugged, durable, and well designed. Other examples of elegant uses for concrete include patios, decks, driveways, garage flooring, around pools, and much more. Left untreated, concrete can be boring, bland, and dull.
Untreated concrete can also be very porous which means it absorbs all types of liquids like water, oil, and other stain causing liquids. Not only does the porous nature of untreated concrete mean it can be easily stained, it also means the concrete can be chipped, cracked, damaged, or otherwise compromised.
Concrete and cement acid staining is one way to overcome the boring and dull gray look of concrete. Concrete acid staining actually uses the porous nature of untreated (not waterproof) concrete to color the cement. The acid is mixed create the desired color and is then applied to the concrete. The cement absorbs the acid which stains the cement nearly all the way through.
No two areas of concrete are exactly the same so acid stains (even similar mixtures of stain) will never turn out identical. This means that acid staining concrete is a great way to get a truly unique look for your concrete. Acid stained concrete still needs to be treated with a cement waterproofing substance. This can be done once the stain has set and is dry.
Concrete epoxy coatings and other cement coverings are a great way to protect stained or unstained cement so as to keep them protected from chips, cracks, and liquid. Cement coatings offer an excellent protection by adding a barrier between elements and the actual concrete. For example, an epoxy coating on a garage floor (residential or commercial) means that any vehicle leaks like oil can be easily wiped up and cleaned rather than staining the concrete.
If you have untreated concrete it can easily be damaged. Damaged concrete is not only unsightly; it is also dangerous. It is important that damaged concrete be fixed and repaired as soon as possible. One of the best steps you can take to prevent further damage and avoid having to repeatedly repair concrete is to add a good concrete sealant or coating. These concrete coatings will protect from future damage, allow you to avoid constant repairs, and they can add aesthetic appeal to the concrete as well.
If your concrete is chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged you may be able to fix it with an at home repair/patching kit. However, if the damage is too extensive contact the experts at Hard Rock Concrete Coatings of Utah. We are Utah’s premier experts in all things concrete including repairs and, as the name suggests, concrete coatings.
Concrete can be beautiful and useful but it is important to take care of it. Acid stains can provide beauty. Epoxy coatings and other sealants can provide protection. Homeowners with all types of concrete (stained or unstained, coated or uncoated) should clean concrete regularly and ensure that it is free of dangerous damage. For any questions about your concrete or to receive a quote on concrete services contact us today.
