Innovative Concrete Designs
Innovative Concrete Designs
The Innovative Concrete Designs behind the tallest buildings and infrastructure built to last centuries is no stranger to design, but its utilitarian nature has often been a detriment to creativity. That is changing as new products, construction techniques and research enhance the traditional material. Bendable concrete, smog eating concrete and carbon capture are just some of the ways the industry is pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with this versatile building material.
Decorative concrete is now more popular than ever for both commercial and residential projects. It offers homeowners flexibility to match the design of their home with their landscape and architectural style while boosting property value at the same time. In fact, it is estimated that one well-done backyard patio can add up to 10 percent to the value of a home.
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With the help of advancements in materials, modeling software and milling machinery, concrete contractors now have the ability to create custom shapes and textures. Supplemental cementitious materials like fly ash, slag cement and silica fume increase strength and durability. Chemical admixtures control set times, freeze thaw resistance and flowability. Tiny fibers are used to increase ductility and reduce cracking.
With so many options, the possibilities are endless. Aside from hand-applied coloring and multiple pattern choices, contractors can create a variety of unique effects through staining and saw cutting. Using acid staining, for instance, can yield color variations with variegated hues resembling aged stone or marble. Another way to make concrete more visually appealing is through etching sunburst, fan or linear patterns into the surface with a circular saw.
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