Our love affair with concrete flooring has been steadily growing for year. And not just for outdoor spaces. Long been regarded as the flooring of choice for trendy shops and restaurants, concrete is now underfoot at homes and offices everywhere.
Concrete floors used to be thought of as gray, boring and cold, but homeowners have since realized their ability to effortlessly take on color and sheen can easily transform them into warm and beautiful floors that compliment any lifestyle. But these floors have many more benefits than just their chameleon-like qualities …
Affordability … In comparison to other types of flooring, decorative concrete can be very cost-effective. For the same price as standard carpet or vinyl, you can choose from a wide range of options. And the ongoing maintenance costs are miniscule since concrete floors require minimal upkeep.
Maintenance … Concrete floors require little more than a broom and a soapy mop. The frequency is entirely up to you and the amount of traffic the floors receive.
Durability … A concrete floor that is aesthetically maintained and occasionally polished will outlast the homeowner. And many people have learned to appreciate and feature floors with a bit of age and cracks.
Versatility … Whether you’re looking for flooring to complement a “man cave” or an open and airy living room, concrete floors offer a variety of textures, techniques, stains, colors and dyes unlike any other material.
With all the benefits, it’s no wonder developers and homeowners are selecting concrete floors for indoor living!
One of the questions we get asked most often is: “Can you fix my concrete driveway or does it need to be replaced?” Although the decision is often personal, whether to repair or replace has to be determined on a case-by-case basis because it comes down to the origin and extent of the damage.
A decade ago replacing damaged concrete was often the only choice. But things have changed. Construction has been positively affected by technology and now repair products are stronger and more durable than their predecessors.
If the work can be restored to its original integrity or if the surface is merely worn down or slightly chipped, then a repair is a viable option. However, if the concrete has deteriorated due to something like poor installation or weather conditions, replacing the existing driveway would be the best option.
Brick pavers are one of the most appealing and versatile materials for outdoor designs. They can be used for walkways, driveways, patios, swimming pool decks and much more. But, as with many home improvement materials, they’re also an investment. As such, it’s important to learn about the proper care and maintenance.
Because of constant exposure to tires, oil stains, footprints and the elements, your pavers will get dirty and require maintenance. Good cleaning habits like routine sweeping and hosing off will help minimize the need for professional cleanings; however, it’s a good idea to have your pavers professionally cleaned.
All pavers are different and cleaning methods and materials should not be considered “one size fits all.” Some widely available cleaners may be too harsh on natural stone pavers, while others may contain too much acid. An outdoor construction specialist has the knowledge of the material and the access to the equipment to instantly transform the look of your outdoor space. With the right tools and experience, they can regenerate the look of your pavers without using excessive pressure, which can ultimately harm the brick pavers. At the same time, they will replace the sand in between the bricks that normally erode with time and the wash, and apply a sealant to maintain the clean surface and prevent weed growth.
In order to transform your outdoor space to its original pristine shape, it’s best to invest in a professional cleaning and sealing atleast once a year. The increased lifespan of your pavers will certainly offset the cost.
Contact ASE Pools today and speak with one of our representatives about our professional paver cleaning and sealing services.
Extending your living space outward with the addition of a patio is a great idea. The creation of outdoor living space enhances the enjoyment of your home, and increases your property value. But before you sell yourself on a specific look or material, consider how you plan on using the space and choose a material that complements the style of your home and your own personal lifestyle. These materials are also great options for your pool deck. To help the process, we’re showcasing four commonly used patio pavers.
Brick Pavers
Brick is a classic material that will lend a traditional textural charm to your outdoor space. Although bricks are rectangular in shape, there are endless of pattern possibilities. It is important to note, though, that although brick pavers can be cost effective, they tend to chip and crack over time. But because they’re usually less porous than construction-grade bricks, they’re resistant to erosion.
Pre–Cast Concrete Pavers
If you’re looking for the most cost-effective solution, concrete is the answer. Concrete pavers are made by casting concrete into molds to form individual tiles. They’re available in a range of colors, finishes and styles. Unfortunately, concrete requires a lot of attention and maintenance. Concrete patios need to be frequently washed and sealed to prevent the colors from fading. Another drawback with concrete is heat. Concrete doesn’t stand-up well to sun exposure well, and tends to get very hot.
Travertine Pavers
Travertine’s natural beauty, versatility and durability makes it a favorite among landscape architects. It is a stone often confused with marble because of its beautiful texture and natural grain. But don’t take its aesthetics for delicateness. The stone remains cool during harsh summer months and its porous quality repels water, making it easy to walk on.
Choosing the right pavers for your patio or pool deck can make a huge impact on your backyard’s look and feel, which is why it’s important to arm yourself with as much information as possible so you can make an informed decision. For more information about a specific product or an estimate on your renovation project, contact us today at ASE Pools.
Our love affair with concrete flooring has been steadily growing for year. And not just for outdoor spaces. Long been regarded as the flooring of choice for trendy shops and restaurants, concrete is now underfoot at homes and offices everywhere.
A decade ago replacing damaged concrete was often the only choice. But things have changed. Construction has been positively affected by technology and now repair products are stronger and more durable than their predecessors.
Because of constant exposure to tires, oil stains, footprints and the elements, your pavers will get dirty and require maintenance. Good cleaning habits like routine sweeping and hosing off will help minimize the need for professional cleanings; however, it’s a good idea to have your pavers professionally cleaned.
