If you want to create a stunning patio, why not consider installing decorative concrete that mimics slate pavers? You'll have the benefit of sturdy and durable concrete with the lovely variegated colours of rock. To create the texture of separate pavers edged with grout, contractors press stamps into the unset cement. They also layer colouring techniques to emulate slate's natural variances. Here are several ways they might apply colour.
Integral Colour
To imbue the concrete with overall colour, pigments are mixed into the cement before it's poured. The pigments extend throughout the paving, so they won't flake or wear off. They may add soft earthy colours to the paving. However, this treatment alone is not enough to mimic stone as it gives the paving a uniform colour. Rock, on the other hand, fluctuates between varying shades and tones. For example, slate exhibits blues, greys, silvers, tans, oranges, purples, and other hues. The contractors can replicate this organic variation with further treatments on top of the paving once it's poured.
Dry Shake Colours
Dry shake colours are applied to the paving on the ground. These colours add depth and intensity to the paving as they concentrate on the surface area. Contractors can combine different colours across the surface to be more grey in one spot and more gold in another, just like actual slate pavers, which aren't uniform.
Stains and Dyes
Once the paving dries, other colour treatments are possible. Mixing techniques add depth and dimension as each method has a different effect on the paving. However, with concrete, things get intricate. Contractors often apply stains that react with the cement in slightly unpredictable ways to create natural-looking swirls and patterns. Plus, they can use dyes, which are more regular.
Decorative concreting offers more design options than actual stone, as the paving can be textured or coloured to create virtually any look. For example, rather than slate, you could cover your patio with creams, pinks, and peaches reminiscent of travertine. The stamps create grooves that mimic grout, which can be coloured in any shade. Another idea is to create the look of timber planks, which is especially apt for a pool deck. Unlike actual wood, the decking won't warp, rot, or invite termites onto your property. The texture of decorative concrete also helps to make pavement safer as it provides extra traction. You can also apply a sealant with an anti-slip additive.
Reach out to a professional for more information about decorative concreting.
Share19 October 2021
If you have broken concrete around your property, you need to be creative about how you deal with it. You can tear it out, you can fix it or you can reuse the concrete in another area. Hi, my name is Betty, and I am a firm advocate of reducing waste and reusing things. I take this attitude to every part of my life, including my concrete. I own a business and a home, and I have concrete around both of them. Over the years, I have hired contractors to do repairs and a number of other things. I have also done a lot of research. Want ideas? Check out my posts. Cheers!