Vol. 8 No. 1 - February 2008

No, it’s not built into the fork of a tree. It’s the grown-up version, with a breathtaking mountain view and lots of decorative concrete.

What type of hard surface can give off a mixture of colors, patterns and sheens? Not marble or slate. Nope, it’s concrete, one of the trendiest materials used for decorative countertops.

Sure, radiant-heated concrete is warm and comfortable. But before you get too comfortable, there are underlayments, insulation and other factors to consider.

A number of new technological innovations give today’s contractors more choices when they’re looking to make an impression.

The choice of filler and sealant product for a decorative slab is influenced by the amount of movement taking place, the kind of abuse the surface will be taking, and, of course, how the filler will look.

They’re heavy and they can be hard to install. But for some customers, decorative concrete tubs are worth every drop of sweat.

There is nothing more stressful than deciding on the best path for your business. Making the right decision at the right time is very important in growing and in perfecting the decorative craft. I had to answer each of the questions below at some point in my decorative journey and I’m guessing so will you.

We’ve grown up, and now we have to act accordingly, and in unison, for our industry to reach its true potential. We all need to truly understand the process.

The ins and outs of floor grinders on the market today.

Cheng Concrete announced the winners of its fourth annual Members’ Circle of Distinction Design Challenge at the 2008 World of Concrete show in Las Vegas last January. More than 100 entries were received for the contest from 25 states as well as Canada, Mexico, and England.

As an ingredient in most concrete mixtures, crystalline silica is virtually guaranteed to be present on any decorative concrete job site.

It occurred to the owner of Arcus that there must be an easier way to make contoured cuts than with a router. A few hours later, she was rolling a rimless, contoured salad plate on its edge, watching as it traced a perfectly smooth, contoured path. Thus, the Arcus Contoured Blade was born.

Decorative concrete contractor Tom Ralston has probably never met you, but even so, he suspects you’re waiting too long before cutting your control joints. “Saw-cutting concrete is usually done long after the concrete has been poured or has set up,” he says. “It’s kind of like locking the gate after the horse has left.”