Marty McIntyre of PCI speaks to Eastern Illinois students about the PreCast Concrete Industry and the work process involved. (Part 3 of 7)
Visit : PorterCable FR350A Bar Stools Home Outlet Mall bedskirt
This is a great idea I saw a few years ago. It worked well then and works great now, with the new plastic gutters that are available.
Way back then gutters where wood or steel. The guys I saw used wood and oiled it so the concrete did not stick. They still had some problems removing the curbs but it worked!
What you do is get a couple of 10' lengths of plastic gutter.
Make some braces to stop it from stretching open when you fill it. These can be made with 1" x 6" boards placed along each side and braced with stakes driven into the ground.
You will also need to cut a couple of pieces to cover each end. These can be screwed on to the brace boards.
Oil the inside of the gutter and fill with concrete!
In a couple of days remove your 1 x 6 boards and you will be able to take out your new curb. They come out easy because you can stretch the plastic a bit to help with removal.
Don't try to drag the curb around for at least a week, cover it with plastic and keep it wet for 7 days. It should be cured enough to use buy then if your temperature is in the 60 - 70 degree range. If it is colder you should wait longer, or until late Spring or Summer!!
It is also a good plan to add a length of 1/2" rebar to the curb when it is about 1/2 poured. This will make it far stronger and less likely to break when you are maneuvering it around.
These are VERY heavy so try to make them as close as you can to where the will be living. I always try to do them so all I have to do is roll them over and they are in place.
A good aggregate type mix is best for this.
copyright 2005 Del Germyn
Author - Del Germyn Web site http://www.delsmolds.com My web site is setup to help you and I learn more about molds and casting in general. YOU WILL FIND.. Articles on how to mix your concrete, hypertufa, etc for different uses. Free information on how to make your own molds. Tips and hints on their use and care. Free information on making and using various types of molds to cast concrete, plaster, cement, ceramics, and molding with hypertufa. Suggestions for projects that you can do in a couple of hours that will make your yard / garden look great. All the information on the site is free to use and share. http://www.delsmolds.com go to my site now.
I am hoping that when you see what I have (or have not) set out you will send in your tips and stories.
By sharing we can all learn from each other. We can also help newcomers to the hobby / business.
My Links : PorterCable FR350A Lamps Buying Guide Living to100 Amazing
Visit www.concretenetwork.com for more concrete floor videos. Concrete floor polishing creates a durable surface that lends itself well to unique designs. Embed colors, rock, metal, stone, glass and other material in the concrete surface for a one-of-a-kind floor finish.
Related : PorterCable FR350A bedskirt Lamps Buying Guide
Faux painting techniques are an economical and innovative way to transform any surface and can complement any decorating style. Dull concrete floors, both indoors and out, can be brought dramatically to life with paint.
In theory, almost any look can be replicated, by introducing color, pattern and texture. The ideal design will vary according to the room or space you are making over. You may want a color scheme or theme to complement the décor style and/or function of a room or outdoor area.
Planning and Preparation
Before choosing a design, look carefully at your surface and space. Some designs are useful for disguising flaws in a floor. For other designs you may need to patch and smooth flawed surfaces thoroughly first.
You will also need to think about the traffic in the area you are painting. Is it worth doing an elaborate, time-consuming pattern in a high traffic area? If you don't like the distressed look that will result, you may want to rethink. Designs also need matching to the surface area. Large, bold patterns may be out of scale for a small room. Equally, small, detailed patterns may get lost in large spaces. If you are using stencils, note that some manufacturers can resize stencils for you.
Inspirations for Faux Painted Floors
Brick and Stone
Brick (or 'block') and stone finishes can add texture and/or color and can be effective indoors or outdoors. Patterned brickwork is easily simulated using reusable stencils. They are available in a wide range of designs and are an easy option for beginners.
Simulating the effect of stone may require more expertise (and time) and so may be more suitable for smaller spaces. Many types of stone can be reproduced using paint. You could create a luxurious marble floor for your bathroom. Faux slate paving or flagstones will suit patios and indoor spaces, such as kitchens or hallways.
Tiles and Mosaics
Faux terracotta tiles are a versatile option for kitchens, patios and dining rooms. Their warm, earthy appearance goes well with the rustic Tuscan look and can add warmth in a modern home. Again, stenciling can be used to reproduce a tiled appearance. You could use paint to create a faux mosaic floor worthy of a Roman villa.
Patterned and Textured Finishes
For a finish that isn't too busy, you can use paint to create subtle texture. The color washing technique used to create a mottled or cloudy effect on walls can also be used on floors. Distressed and antique finishes that simulate wear and age may be suitable in some décor schemes.
With pattern, your choice is endless. Covering an entire surface is one option. Alternatively you could paint a faux rug, perhaps with patterns inspired by oriental carpets and kelims. You might prefer clean lines and geometric patterns. Stencils are always useful and can be used for patterned borders for a more understated look.
Bold or subtle, bright or neutral, faux painting techniques can give your floor an expensive-looking makeover that won't break the bank.
Find more concrete floor stencil ideas from That Painter Lady. Then claim your free "Insider's Guide to Faux Painting" and avoid all the common mistakes, get success tips, find the right products for the job and more.
Visit : PorterCable FR350A Lamps Buying Guide
www.concretenetwork.com Stamped concrete patio ideas. See several patterns as you visit award winning homes with designer Scott Cohen. He explains why he chose each pattern so that it fits the style and design of the home.
My Links : PorterCable FR350A Outlet Mall Lamps Buying Guide Living to100 Amazing
Marty McIntyre of PCI speaks to Eastern Illinois students about the PreCast Concrete Industry and the work process involved. (Part 1 of 8.)
Visit : PorterCable FR350A Lamps Buying Guide Bar Stools Home bedskirt
Visit www.concretenetwork.com for more concrete floor videos. In this video find out how to maintain a concrete floor that gets heavy use and foot traffic. Such environments include retail shops, casinos, shopping malls, etc. See how these concrete floors should be maintained.
My Links : PorterCable FR350A bedskirt Lamps Buying Guide
Video on how concrete floors are often used in retail shops because of their durability and design flexibility. Visit www.concretenetwork.com for more concrete floor videos. Virtually any color or shape can be installed allowing retailers to customize their entire floor...see some examples.
See Also : PorterCable FR350A CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fans Outlet Mall Living to100 Amazing
For many people today, the idea of low cost items is one that sounds more attractive than high cost items, no matter how much quality packed the high cost items are. In a situation where one can get low cost items with a high cost value, there is no reason why they would look anywhere else. The idea of polished concrete flooring is one that has become a widespread one today and there are several places that have resorted to having polished floors because of the low costs associated with it.
When compared to other forms of flooring, it can be concluded that polished concrete flooring gains more points when it comes to low cost flooring because one does not need to have other raw materials for them to be able to get complete concrete polishing. As a matter of fact, one just uses the same items that are available to acquire the complete flooring. The most important thing to note is that you will not have to buy anything more to add to the floor because whatever the floor will look like after the polishing, will not depend on what is added but how what is already there is used.
As a low cost solution, polished floors offer home and business owners the advantage of being able to save on energy consumption and usage. In terms of lighting, the glossy and reflective surface of the polished concrete floors ensures that the light that is emitted from the light sources within the house is actually reflected back into the room. This therefore means that the lighting that is required for such a house will probably be half the lighting that would otherwise be required if there was no polished flooring. This simply means that less energy is used and as a result less expenses thus keeping in line with the low cost idea.
The other idea about polished flooring that makes it a low cost alternative is the fact that once you do the polishing of the concrete floor, it will take you a bit of a while before you can think of actually replacing or even just repairing the flooring. The durability of the polished floors ensures that as long as one can clean the floor regularly, there should be no need for them to worry about spending any extra money. The only thing that would probably require some money could be the items for cleaning the floor because one needs to have the best items to help them clean the floor.
All in all, for someone who is working on a tight budget, the polished concrete flooring is a good solution because they can be able to save quite a lot of money because the concrete polishing is a very cost effective, reliable, durable and environmentally friendly solution to the idea of flooring. In the near future, concrete polishing will be the way forward especially since there are economic worries across the entire world.
The Green Alternative To Flooring
We have a affordable flooring solution for you.
Concrete Polishing
Polished Concrete
Recommend : PorterCable FR350A Bar Stools Home CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fans Living to100 Amazing
Concrete molds have always been popular for working with concrete. They can be made of a number of different types of materials. A couple of factors determine which one is most suitable for the job you want to do. These include the area that you'll be working with, the size of the job, and what type of look you're after.
Latex molds are very popular because they're so easy to use. As soon as it comes out of the container, it's ready to go. This is its main advantage. There is basically little or no preparation required, so you can focus your time and effort on getting the design right. One problem with latex molds, however, is that they do sometimes shrink a little in size. Making a latex mold can also take a fair bit of time. It also takes a long time to dry, which usually means that you can't usually make use of the mold on the same day you make it, which can be a nuisance.
Another very popular material for concrete molds is polysulfide rubber. This is a two component material that's been a favorite in the industry for a long time. One of the big advantages of this material is that it lasts a long time. It's also quite stretchable, which makes it easy to form the mold exactly the way you want it. However, be warned - the big downside of working with polysulfide rubber is that it smells rather offensive. It might be a good idea to practice holding your breath before using it for a concrete mold!
These are certainly the two most popular materials for making concrete molds, but there are others. If you want to find out more about how to make a concrete mold, check out your local hardware store or spend some time searching the Internet. There's lots of books and article available to help you learn how to make a mold that will be just right for your needs.
If you want to find out more about concrete molds, click over to Josh's site at http://www.infoaboutconcrete.com/
See Also : PorterCable FR350A CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fans bedskirt Lamps Buying Guide
How to paint a concrete floor is a question many do-it-yourself homeowners frequently ask. By painting a concrete floor, you protect it from normal wear and tear. You also add some color to concrete, which is usually cold and dreary looking.
Preparation is paramount. The proper preparation and the right tools are necessary. Although homeowners want to make an improvement to the floor, they aren't quite sure what to do with the concrete mass. When deciding on how to paint the floor, keep in mind that it is somewhat of a long process.
Before tackling the question certain measures must be taken. First, you have to make sure the room has proper ventilation to prevent irritation to your eyes and nasal passageways. Next, you have to prepare the surface by cleaning it and, if necessary, using a de-greaser to remove tough stains. If there are any holes or cracks in the floor, they need to be filled.
Although how to paint a concrete floor seems like an easy question to answer, there is much more to the task than just painting the floor. As a result, the answer is not as easy as one might think. For example, the concrete floor has to be checked for curing compounds that would prevent the paint from adhering to the surface. In addition, moisture in the concrete has to be removed before proceeding with painting. Finally, the texture of the concrete should feel like medium sand paper. If it feels harder, the paint will not adhere well and acid etching must be done.
First, some basics. For starters, buy enough paint to cover the surface with several coats. A primer and sealer are also needed. Before painting, be sure to stir the paint well. A roller, rather than a brush, is the best application to paint a concrete floor. A roller goes much faster and is much more comfortable for your back. However, a brush will be needed to do the edges and any areas around poles, vents, or other objects embedded in the floor. It's best to paint these areas first.
How to paint a concrete floor involves choosing the right paint. Epoxy-based paints are best, but if you want to protect the concrete floor from chemical spills, such as those used in a garage, you might want to consider glossy finishing. Next, decide on a color that complements the walls in the room and its style.
Before starting, you want to know techniques so it comes out looking great. First, it's best to work in four foot sections so you don't paint yourself into a corner. Use long, smooth strokes. Be sure the primer is well dried before applying the paint color. Likewise, be sure the paint is completely dry before applying the sealer.
When homeowners think about how to paint the concrete floor in the basement, garage, or other area in their home, they understand it takes time, but adds to their investment. Once you've painted the floor, you might want to protect it with mats or area rugs, especially in areas where stains and leaks commonly occur. Painting a concrete floor is an inexpensive way to upgrade your flooring and improve its appearance so it better fits with your room décor.
Sue Krippner is a Free Lance Artist, Home Staging and Redesign Professional. For more detailed information pertaining to decorative concrete overlays visit http://www.FrugalHomeDesign.com/Decorative-Concrete.html
Visit : PorterCable FR350A Outlet Mall Lamps Buying Guide
So I am all about running the rain water off of the roof of my garage down into a pond up against the side of my house, this will be baller. What I want to create is a simple above ground pond for my plants and different species of goldfish that I am trying to breed. I think keeping them behind the house in 24 inch tall cinderblock ponds is going to be the way to go. I have to give my man Kevin props for this idea. As you know, I am big on having a plan, so any advice or ideas you have I am all for. I have never worked with concrete before but I am thinking I am going to have to use it to make it level, this shouldn't be too bad, but traveling to the unknown is kind nervous, but hell, I put up two garden ponds and the wife didn't know, so how tough can it be? Ideally i want them to be easy to get into and also be able to sit in between them or on the side of them. if anyone has any advice on how to build a concrete garden pond or just working with concrete, let me know!. Check out my personal pond and fishtank keeping adventures on www.dustinsfishtanks.com and the wild chat and custom profiles of www.fishtanktv.com Set up your own profile and show off your tanks/pond fish, plants...whatever. If you like this video subscribe or rate me up! thanks D
Tags : PorterCable FR350A bedskirt Lamps Buying Guide Living to100 Amazing
If you want a beautiful and trendy coffeehouse look in your kitchen, living room, or even a bedroom, staining your concrete floor is a bold way to achieve it. The problem is that it is a specialized process that few people have done themselves, so it's tough to get good advice on how to stain a concrete floor correctly.
If you've seen a stained concrete floor you like, take a picture of it and take it to your local home improvement store or paint store. This will provide a good start. There are different types of staining processes, but this article will cover the acid stain and sealing process.
The first step is to remove any old carpet and make sure you're happy with the shape the concrete is in. Builders often make marks on concrete slabs knowing they will be covered up, and carpet installers often nail down tack strips or glue down padding that can leave permanent marks on the concrete. It is possible to remove most of these markings, but there will likely be imperfections showing through the finished floor. The beauty of stained concrete is that the variegated finish blends well with imperfections, so don't think that just because your floor has issues, you can't stain it.
Next, remove markings and glue by scraping or with lacquer thinner or a commercial graffiti remover. This can take time, but is well worth the effort. Keep in mind that any solvent-based products will have to be washed off using a degreasing solution (like TSP) that you can purchase at a home improvement store. Acid stains must be applied to oil- and solvent-free surfaces, or they won't react with the concrete.
Now fill any cracks or pits in the concrete with a quick-setting concrete patch. Level it out with a trowel or putty knife and smooth it with a wet sponge. If necessary, sand the patched area lightly after it sets to remove any residue and blend the patched surface with the surrounding area.
You may want to mask walls from overspray at this point. If you've used any solvent-based cleaning products, wash the surface with a degreasing solution and rinse thoroughly. Use a wet-vac or sponge mop to remove extra water if necessary.
You're finally ready for your acid stain treatment. Follow the directions of the manufacturer, but usually this entails pouring the acid into a plastic pressure sprayer. Dampen the concrete floor lightly and start spraying the stain over the concrete, working your way from the far corner of the room to the door so you don't have to step on completed areas. It's okay to let the stain pool into the low spots of the concrete; this will give the finish a beautiful leather-like look.
The acid in the stain will react with the concrete and you should see some bubbling as you apply the stain. You can typically let the stain dry for 8 to 24 hours to let it have the greatest affect, then scrub it off with a solution of baking soda and water to neutralize the acid. Rinse the floor thoroughly, removing the water with a wet-vac or sponge mop as required.
You'll notice that the floor looked a lot better wet. Once the floor is complete dry, which may take a day or two with fans on it, you need to apply a sealer to bring back the "wet-look" of the floor. Water based sealer is cheaper and works great if you don't want a high-gloss finish. If you want gloss, pay the extra money for a solvent-based concrete floor sealer. Do not, under any circumstance, apply the water-based sealer first, then change your mind and switch to a solvent-based product. Even if the water-based product is completely dry, the solvent-based sealer won't adhere as well and you'll have problems with it pealing up.
In our opinion, the solvent-based glossy sealer looks dramatically better and is worth the extra money to do it right. The sealer gets applied with a brush around the edges and a roller over the rest of the floor. You may apply a second coat if you wish, then you are finished. You should have a beautiful acid-stained concrete floor!
Kevin Harper is a writer specializing in covering news and information related to home improvement, real estate topics such as Orlando real estate and Portland real estate, and SEO. Sign up for Kevin's free Real Estate Marketing Tips newsletter.
Recommend : PorterCable FR350A Living to100 Amazing Lamps Buying Guide
Colored or imprinted concrete decks and driveways require a sealing coat to protect them effectively. However, these coatings only last for some specific time and then fade off. Various factors including wear and tear, salts and chemicals determine how strong the coating is and how long can it last.
There are two prime types of sealers namely solvent or water based that form a layer on the surface and the penetrants that penetrate the concrete surface and provide outer protection as well.
Concrete Sealant:
The word concrete means a hard porous substance that absorbs liquid into its apertures leaving it with quick stains. A concrete sealant constitutes of different silicates, siloxanes, silanes, epoxies, polyester, polyurethanes, acrylics and waxes.
These further simplify into two fundamental categories of film formers chemically reactive sealers or penetrants. To be specific, silicates are the best sealers to protect the damage from salt and water resistant sealers are the best for stain protection.
Concrete sealant forms a protective layer over the concrete's surface. They are water resistant as well. Epoxies and polyesters produce a hard, scratch resistant and much-durable finish.
Sealing Decks:
The process of protecting the floor from fading and losing the grain patterns is sealing deck. Oil sealers contain different types of oils. They are ether penetrants or coatings, whereas some are a combination of both.
Pure coatings form a layer over the wood and protect it from external stains. A product containing linseed oil is a film-forming deck-sealing product. Some constitute of paraffin oil and hence, are the best penetrants. The most famous deck sealers today are water-based wood deck sealers.
These products for sealing decks contain volatile organic compounds or volatiles, which are turpentine or simple mineral spirits.
Wood Sealer:
The use of a wood sealer is for soft woods. It helps to reclaim wild granular mold. wood sealer Permeates the wood and makes it less absorbent for a better grain pattern and color appearance.
There are different types of wood sealers that people use today such as varnishes, water based dyes, colored oil finishers, wood preservatives, water repellants, wood toners and shellac (resin secreted by lac bug). They match well with the variety of coatings and can be a coating over old shellac, varnish or gloss finishes that stick well.
Wood preservatives are classified based on their contents comprising of EPA-registered fungicide.
Concrete Crack Sealant:
Epoxies constitute of cyclic ethers called oxacyclopropanes that stiffen during the polymerization process. It is a product of biphenol A and epichorohydrin reaction. They are famous for high tensile strengths and hence, are expensive. The bond strength of this sealant is higher than other concrete crack sealants available.
http://www.gulfsynthetics.com is one such site, wherein you can get good quality concrete crack sealants, wood sealer, sealing decks and concrete sealants.
Related : PorterCable FR350A Lamps Buying Guide CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fans
When most of us think about concrete, we consider it to be an impenetrable barrier. What most of us don't realize, however, is that concrete is actually a very porous material that will allow moisture to pass through it readily. Because we use concrete and concrete products whenever we build our homes in the foundation or as a walkway or patio, it may be necessary for us to do some concrete waterproofing in order to make sure that water can not pass through. After all, the last thing that we would want to have happen is for moisture to creep into our basement and either damage the walls or cause a mold problem within our home.
The best time for concrete waterproofing to take place is whenever the home is first being built. The reason why this is the case is because the outside of the walls are exposed and it is easy to waterproof them at this time. The concrete waterproofing that goes on the outside of your foundation walls is much different than the type that goes on the inside. Typically, a membrane of some sort is spread onto the outside of the wall, such as a tar like substance. You would not want to put this on the inside of your basement walls as it would be rather messy to deal with, especially if you live in this area of your home. It may also put off some fumes that would creep up in your home and may cause you to get sick.
Concrete waterproofing on the inside of the walls is also possible if the outside was not properly taken care of. This is usually done by means of putting some waterproofing paint on the inside of the walls, after any mold or mildew has been removed. It helps to keep the moisture from coming through into the basement, although it will still come into the concrete.
Regardless of the type of concrete waterproofing that you have on your home, you may still want to run a dehumidifier in your basement or crawlspace in order to keep the moisture out of the air. Because this area of your home is underground, it naturally collects moisture and that can cause a problem in the upstairs area of your home as well. Running a dehumidifier will effectively take care of any of these moisture problems that are not corrected by the concrete waterproofing on the walls themselves.
You can find out more about Concrete Waterproofing as well as much more information and tips on everything to do with basement waterproofing at http://www.BasementWaterproofingTips.com
Friends Link : PorterCable FR350A Lamps Buying Guide Outlet Mall
If you have lots of concrete around your home, then perhaps you've considered the idea of doing something to make it a little more attractive. Many people have heard of paints or coating agents, but the idea of concrete acid staining is unfamiliar to most. Basically, it involves coloring the concrete by causing a chemical reaction on the concrete's surface.
Concrete acid stain causes a chemical reaction by mixing acid, water and inorganic salts. There are already minerals present in the concrete, and once they are mixed with the three added ingredients, the concrete changes color. It doesn't matter whether your concrete is new or old; it works beautifully either way. If you take the time after acid staining to protect the concrete, then the effect will last for a very long time.
Some people who've come across the idea of acid staining concrete have the mistaken idea that it can only be done outdoors. This isn't true. You can stain both interior and exterior walls, entrances, walkways, patios, driveways, retaining walls, or any other area of concrete that could do with a bit of cheering up and color.
The acid stain doesn't just change the concrete's color; it also gives it a marbled, mottled look, which is very attractive. The colors produced are beautiful, no matter what type of concrete is acid stained. Generally, the end color is an interesting mix of earthy brown and elements of red and green. You can choose your own color by mixing and matching the available colors from a hardware store. However never make the mistake of thinking your acid stain will be uniform in color - every slab of concrete will have its own individual shade.
If you think that you'd like to cheer up your concrete, then investigate the option of acid staining. It can really make a difference to the appearance of your concrete.
If you want to read more about concrete acid stain, click over to Josh's site at http://www.infoaboutconcrete.com.
Related : PorterCable FR350A Lamps Buying Guide Bar Stools Home Living to100 Amazing
Do it yourself concrete staining is the cheapest and easiest way to enhance the appearance of your concrete surfaces. The alternatives, tearing out existing concrete and replacing with new or decorative overlays, are not recommended for do-it-yourselfers and can be very expensive. But before you begin your staining project there are a few things you need to know.
There are two types of concrete stains to choose from, acid stains and acrylic stains. Acid stains work by chemically reacting with free lime in the surface to produce a natural looking, translucent color. They create a mottled, variegated, multi-hued coloring. Every concrete surface reacts differently to acids stains making each job unique. Acrylic stains are waterborne and have pigments that seep into the pores and adhere to the concrete, therefore creating a more consistent, semi translucent color like that of a dye. Acrylic stains will help mask imperfections and discolorations whereas acid stains actually accentuate them.
For many surfaces, acid and acrylic stains will work equally as well, but which one you choose depends on the look you want. However, there are situations where one type will work better than the other. For older, exterior concrete (more than 15-20 yrs old) acid stains may not work because much of the free lime has leeched away. Acrylic stains are great for old concrete because of its increased porosity over time. Acid stains work well with newer concrete because of the availability of free lime. If repairs need to be made such as patching pop outs or scaling, then acrylics may be the better choice to help disguise the repairs. Any patching materials will stand out with acid stains. For smooth trowelled interior surfaces with less porosity, acid stains are usually better because they don't require as much penetration to color the concrete.
Before beginning it's also important to have realistic expectations. Staining can turn dull, gray concrete into a beautiful and colorful finish, but it's impossible to know exactly how the finished product will look, especially with acid stains. Every concrete surface is different and so will accept stains differently. The exact same stain will have two different appearances with two different slabs. Even seasoned pros can't predict the exact outcome of a staining job. For this reason, it's not a good idea to try to exactly match the color of concrete to anything else such as brick or siding. There's a very good chance you won't be successful. Instead, choose a complimentary color or shade for your concrete. For instance, if you have light brown siding, then choose a dark brown stain.
The most critical part of staining is preparation. Take time in deciding how you want your concrete to look and getting the surface ready to apply the stain. You get one shot at getting it right unless you want to do a major overhaul to the surface. Do it yourself concrete staining is not a difficult process but does require an honest effort to be satisfied your finished product.
Kirk Muhlhauser offers ideas and instructions for enhancing your home's concrete surfaces. Find information on concrete stains, paints, and sealers at http://www.all-things-concrete.com
Related : PorterCable FR350A Lamps Buying Guide Outlet Mall
tajmawall.com See how a unique process in decorative concrete and quickly transform a dated fireplace into a beautiful stone fireplace.
Related : PorterCable FR350A Lamps Buying Guide
Acid staining can make a common concrete floor into look like expensive natural stone flooring. Not only is it a fraction of the price, but for people allergic to carpeting materials it's a godsend. Another great application is in houses with radiant floor heating. Radiant heating is at its most efficient when insulating floor coverings like tile or carpet are minimized.
The process of staining a concrete floor, while not overly complex, can be tough to get the results you want from. Most folks are probably better off hiring a professional contractor. It's a risky project for the do-it-yourselfer.
If you're not familiar with it, concrete stain isn't a paint or finish coat. It involves a chemical reaction on cement materials. Typically a water-based solution of hydrochloric acid and inorganic salts, the stain reacts with minerals and lime in the concrete aggregate, and the result of the reaction is coloring. It works on new or old concrete, and is fairly durable if you maintain it with sealer or wax, since it won't stain or chip. It can also be applied to both interiors and exterior floors. Walkways, bathrooms, entrances, driveways, living rooms and patios are all fair game.
When it's finished, stained concrete looks a little like marble, but more dappled and less uniform. The concrete will mostly be earthy brown tones, with hints of red and green. It's possible to make your own tint stain by mixing colors, or applying at dissimilar rates. When you stain a concrete floor, though, don't expect the stain to be uniform or have an even tone. Plan your room décor and color scheme accordingly, because you'll get dissimilar reactions from different areas of the concrete, and even a seasoned pro will be hard pressed to predict what the final result will be.
Surface prep for acid staining concrete depends on what condition your slab is in. Newly poured concrete only needs is be allowed time for curing- three weeks after pouring- then some rinsing and scrubbing. Older concrete is a different story. Thorough cleaning is required because any dirt, grease, paint, sealer or even curing agent will keep the stain from penetrating and reacting as it should. Do a little test area to make sure it's ready.
Newer poured concrete will require less stain than older floors, but in general, a gallon of water added to one gallon of stain will cover around 400 square feet. Apply the stain with a non-metallic brush or broom, working in the cooler morning or evening hours, rather than in the heat of the day. Be careful to protect yourself from spillage, drips and fumes from the acid stain, and follow the manufacturer's precautions.
After application, you need to cleanup by sweeping away any leftover stain and residue with a broom. When the floor is thoroughly dry, it is a good idea to apply a sealer agent and then wax it.
If you are in the market for natural stone flooring, a new look for your basement or patio, or just looking for new remodeling ideas, stained concrete is certainly something you should look into.
Carlo Morelli is an author and contributor to OnlineTips.Org, where you can read tips about installing fiberglass insulation and home security video equipment
Thanks To : PorterCable FR350A Bar Stools Home CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fans bedskirt
Concrete is a composite material used commonly in building construction. It consists of a combination of an aggregate and a cement binder. The most common type of cement comprises Portland cement, mineral aggregates and water. Concrete is the most widely used man-made material on earth.
Stained Concrete
Acid stain is not a coloring agent or paint. It is basically, a coloring procedure that involves certain chemical reactions on cementitious material. Water, acid and inorganic salts react with the minerals present in the concrete to form a solution that imparts it the color. Acid stains are made from hydrochloric acid, metallic ions and wetting agents. Acid stain provides a mottled, marble like look. It can create various beautiful colors on the concrete such as earthy tones of red, green and reddish brown. Acid staining produces better effects on old concrete. There are different kinds of acid stains available such as ChemTone. This stain does not contain hydrochloric acid and is safer for transporting and handling. Acid staining is permanent, it does not fade or chip.
Where and How to Do It?
Acid staining of concrete can be done in walks, entrances, patios, driveways, living rooms and bathrooms. A smooth concrete surface is better for acid staining. Application of acid stain requires few tools such as paintbrushes, sprayers and a saw with a diamond blade for scoring the surface. One gallon of stain with one gallon of water can color approximately 400 square feet. A new concrete slab needs time for curing (at least three weeks after pouring the mixture). It also has to be rinsed and scrubbed. Old concrete needs to be thoroughly cleaned as any dust, dirt or grease will prevent the acid stain from penetrating properly. It is recommended to test the acid stain on a small area first. Acid stains are transparent and any scratches or cuts on the concrete add to the charm. It is recommended to apply the stain with non-metallic equipments. When the floor is dry, sealing is advised to enhance the color and shield the concrete. The sealer can be applied with a phenolic core roller or sprayers.
Visit the authors site for more stain removal ideas visit: Blood Stain Removal [http://how-to-remove-stains.com/2009/07/blood-stain-removal]
Thanks To : PorterCable FR350A CFM Bathroom Exhaust Fans Bar Stools Home Living to100 Amazing
