Stenciled Concrete

Source:www.stonediamondtool.com Date:2017/12/21 Read:467

Floor coverings are not as popular for interior finishes or coverings, but have been around for decades for exterior coverings for pool decks, and patios. In recent years we have seen these types of finishes become more popular in high traffic interior spaces because of their durability, low cost, ease of application, and range of patterns and colors. They are very similar to Microtopping type finishes in that they are thin, but differ in that they usually contain more sand, and provide a rougher, grittier finish. These types of materials are usually applied through a hopper gun under pressure. A fist scratch or "grout coat" is applied. Once the first coat is dry, adhesive backed stencils are laid out over the floor. A second color or wear coat is spray applied over the stencil, and once dry the stencil is peeled up and discarded. The type of finish (knock down, orange peel, smooth) all depends on the spray pattern and method of spray application. Either a clear or colored sealer is then applied for maintenance and aesthetics.

Self-Leveling
Underlayments used as concrete flooring is the newest trend in concrete floor coverings. Self-leveling concrete has been a staple for repair and leveling of damaged or worn concrete. Until recently, another solid surface floor covering would be placed on top of the self-leveling material. In the last few years contractors have started adding integral color to self-leveling systems, or coming back after 24 hours and using stains, dyes or tints to create colorful floors. The advantage of a self-leveling system is that it can correct uneven floors, repair damaged floors, and at the same time provide a very dense smooth and durable concrete floor. Self-leveling concrete can be expensive, and does require a higher level of proficiency than the microtopping and spray texture products. Surface preparation, once again, becomes very critical with self-leveling systems. Most self-levelers can go down 1/4 inch to 1 inch, with the ability to go to a feather edge.