It should come as no surprise that concrete is utilised for the construction of roads and walkways, given how hard and durable the material is. It has the same level of firmness and endurance as a roadway, which makes it an excellent material for floors. An external concrete floor can neither be scratched nor dented in any way. Paving rocks or blocks that are a dull grey colour are frequently seen in open spaces, as well as on the ground in office properties and shopping malls’ parking garages and parking areas. The responsibility of preserving the quality of this external concrete floor is one that is often simple. The effects of environmental factors can be seen throughout the year, and continued use of these spaces will also add to some wear and tear on their surfaces. It is possible to reduce the amount of damage that is inflicted to your exterior features by implementing concrete coverings on the flooring of your terrace or porch. This will allow you to get the most use out of those items. However, throughout the years, techniques for installing and furnishing concrete floors have progressed along with other flooring materials. As a result, concrete has become a versatile material that can be adapted to practically any design and almost any budget. In addition, the evaluation of whether or not external concrete floor is the most feasible choice for the hardscape could still be subject to discussion. Therefore, in order for you to come at a conclusion, here are some things that you need to be aware of.
Pros of External Concrete Floor
Sustainable
Regarding the question of whether or not concrete is a building material that is environmentally friendly, there are many different points of view. The production of raw external concrete floor inevitably results in a large surge in the amount of carbon dioxide discharged into the atmosphere. The fact that the material is so long-lasting after it has been laid, however, means that it has a smaller cumulative impact on the environment than would otherwise be the case if the old flooring were removed and replaced with brand new materials.
Protect Your Floors from Everyday Use and Wear and Tear
The temperature of your region is not the only factor that could damage your outdoor spaces. The amount of time you splurge on your deck or porch contributes to the wear and tear on your body. For example, frequent cookouts can generate a wide variety of waste, such as food scraps, to fall on your external concrete floor. In addition, if these floors are not adequately secured, the simple act of moving equipment around and walking on them on a daily basis may eventually cause them to get damaged. A concrete patio of good quality should be able to withstand the varied stresses that are applied to it.
Weatherproof
External concrete floor is able to survive the impacts of the sun and rain thanks to its longevity and toughness. Concrete can also resist the effects of other natural components such as wind. Because of this, concrete flooring is an appropriate choice for use in outdoor areas such as patios and courtyards, which are frequently subjected to the effects of the climate. In addition to this, it is an excellent option for interior sections that flow seamlessly into an external environment. This can include living rooms that have doors that go out to the veranda or dining commons that have access to the rear. This can include living rooms that have doors that go out to the veranda or dining commons that have access to the rear.
Economical
External concrete floor is an excellent option for those on a limited budget because it is far less expensive than other forms of floor coverings. It’s a smart move that won’t break the bank and can make your house look more inviting.
The price will differ depending on the type of finish that you want with, such as grading in grid points or staining the wood. You may also make your floor more distinguished by incorporating different colors and patterns on it.
Cons of External Concrete Floor
Moisture
In below-grade cellars, it is possible for moisture to migrate up from beneath the slab, causing the concrete to become excessively damp and causing any surface properties, such as paint, to deteriorate. It is helpful to properly seal the concrete, and it is also helpful to address any outside issues that may be causing problems, such as leaking downspouts and poor soil drains.
Punctures
Whether you like it or not, even concrete that was professionally placed can develop fractures with time. This is due to the fact that a broad area of a slab is required to tolerate shifts in temperature and moisture as well as settling. Cracks on external concrete floor can be camouflaged with coloured cement paste and various repair solutions.
Toughness
There is no avoiding the fact that external concrete floor is hard underneath, which is a feature that some people find unsettling. It is also merciless, since a glass that is dropped will most certainly not survive, which may be a cause for concern if there are young children or elderly people living in the home. The use of area rugs can assist in easing anxieties.
Design Options for External Concrete Floor
Here are some of the design options you can consider for your external concrete floor:
Patterns and Textures
One of the biggest advantages of using an external concrete floor as a hardscape option is the ability to incorporate patterns and textures into the design. This can be done by using various techniques such as stamping, staining, or engraving. This allows for a unique and personalized design that can enhance the overall aesthetic of the outdoor space.
Color Options
Another design option for an external concrete floor is the ability to choose from a wide range of color options. This can be achieved through the use of colored concrete or by applying stains or dyes to the surface. This allows for a more versatile and customizable design that can complement the surrounding landscape.
Additional Design Elements
Another design option for an external concrete floor is the ability to incorporate additional design elements such as borders, inlays, and medallions. When you do this, you are adding more visual interest, detail and complexity to the design. Doing so will create focal points and highlight specific areas of your outdoor space.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing External Concrete Floor as a Hardscape Option
Now, before you choose an external concrete floor as your hardscape option, there are still a few more things that you need to look into, like the weather, potential traffic, as well as the budget and maintenance.
Climate and Weather
Before choosing an external concrete floor as a hardscape option, first you must consider the climate and weather conditions of the area. You see, there’s no doubt that concrete is a durable and long-lasting material. But, like most material, it can be affected by extreme temperatures and weather. It can be affected by the elements. That’s why you must first look into how these natural elements can affect the longevity of your concrete.
Foot Traffic and Use
Before you choose an external concrete floor as your hardscape option, first think about the level of traffic that the area will receive. Because yes, it’s evident that concrete is strong and durable. But it can still be damaged, cracked, chipped and peeled with heavy foot traffic or heavy equipment. Ask yourself, “what is the intended use of the area?” Based on your assessment, you can then decide the type of concrete mix, as well as the concrete thickness suitable for that level of use.
Budget and Maintenance
Next thing you need to look at is the budget and maintenance required. Concrete needs regular maintenance and sealing to maintain its appearance and durability. So go ahead and factor in maintenance costs and invest in a concrete mix that will suit your budget.
Installation and Preparations for External Concrete Floor
DIY vs Hire a Professional
When it comes to installing an external concrete floor, there are two options: DIY or hiring a professional contractor. With a DIY approach, you can definitely save money, but you must also look at your level of experience and knowledge in the field of installing concrete. Have you installed concrete before? Do you have the proper equipment, material, and tools?
If your answer is “no”, then hiring a professional contractor with experience can help you in installing concrete flooring and making sure the process is done fast and at the best quality.
Site Preparation
For an external concrete floor installation to be effective, proper site preparation is essential. Excavation, grading, soil compaction, and the addition of a crushed gravel base layer are all included in this. Making sure the site is level and compact is important in giving the concrete a solid foundation.
Drainage and Slope
A crucial component of site preparation for exterior concrete flooring is proper drainage and slope. Making sure that water will drain away from the house and other structures is vital. Water should not pond on the surface of the concrete, hence a modest slope should be made.
Choosing the Right Contractor
Experience and Expertise
It’s crucial to take their experience and competence into account when hiring a contractor for your external concrete floor job. Ask for references from prior customers and look for companies with experience installing concrete flooring. This will guarantee that the contractor possesses the abilities and expertise required to deliver you a high-quality installation.
Licensing and Insurance
Selecting a licensed and insured contractor is also crucial. This will guarantee that the contractor is qualified to do the work. This also covers and protects you in the event that any accidents or injuries do occur while the project is being done.
Communication and Flexibility
The degree of communication and flexibility a contractor exhibits should be taken into account while making your decision. Choose contractors who are simple to work with and are open to collaborating with you to develop a strategy that meets your unique requirements. It’s crucial to take into account the contractor’s accessibility and capacity to cooperate with your schedule.
Maintenance Options + Tips to Prolong the Life of External Concrete Floor
Regular Cleaning
Wondering what the most important maintenance options for external concrete floors is? It’s regular cleaning. I’m talking about simple things like:
- Sweeping and removing debris
- Using mild detergent to remove dirt and stains
But be careful. Before using chemicals to clean your concrete, you need to make sure it won’t damage or discolor your concrete.
Sealing
Another thing you can do to maintain the beauty and durability of your external concrete floors is by sealing. Apply a sealer on the surface of the concrete and protect it from stains and wear. Doing so will also help you enhance the color and appearance of the concrete. But before doing this, make sure you have the right sealer for the type of concrete and level of damage it was or will be exposed to.
Repairing Cracks and Damages
Set a schedule for inspecting your concrete for cracks and damages as well. Every few months would be good. Look for small cracks that you can repair with concrete patch. Found larger cracks? Well, that may require more extensive repairs. But the most important thing is finding and addressing any damages as soon as you see them, so that you can prevent them from turning into bigger problems and weakening the overall structure over time.
Avoiding Heavy Loads
It’s also important to avoid heavy loads on the surface of the concrete, such as parked cars or heavy equipment. This can cause stress on the concrete and lead to cracks and damages over time.
Polished Concrete Floor Services
In conclusion, using an external concrete floor as a hardscape option can be a good idea for its sustainability, ability to withstand everyday use and wear and tear, weatherproof, and economical benefits. However, it is important to consider the potential issues of moisture, punctures, and toughness as well as the design options available to make the space more personalized and visually appealing. It is also important to communicate and be flexible with the external concrete floor contractor to ensure that the final result meets your expectations.
Weighed out the pros to be of greater gravity than the cons? Make the process of installing external concrete floor an easy one with Renucrete! We have established accurate installation procedures and formulas, and we continually reinvest in cutting-edge equipment to keep our business at the forefront of technology. This guarantees that all of our initiatives will have outputs that are of a steady and high-quality. All of the creative flooring treatments that we perform come with a seven-year warranty from us since we have such conviction in the quality of our work.
At Renucrete, you can benefit from high quality:
- Polished concrete floor services
- Concrete restoration Sydney
- Floor preparation Sydney
- Polished concrete floors
- Salt and pepper concrete floor finish
- Cementitious floor topping
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