Which Type of Decorative Concrete is Right for You?
By Doug Carlton

The boy looked too young to make life’s big decisions. But some have to grow up quicker than others, and this little guy was struggling, as I could tell by how he rubbed his chin and tilted his head. I patiently waited with my son and gave the lad plenty of room. A grownup and a veteran of life, I could still feel the young guy’s anguish as the seconds turned to minutes. My decision had been made well before I walked through the door.

Finally, with a sigh, his little voice made the announcement that everyone else in line had patiently waited to hear: “I’ll have two scoops of the bubblegum ice cream on a waffle cone, please.” I simply complimented the boy on a good decision as he was given a handful of pure enjoyment.

You have, are or will make decisions on your decorative journey, and they will affect you and your family. Our industry, decorative concrete, has so many layers and many types of overlap. This magazine you’re holding makes it obvious your choices are vast, but make no mistake, each decorative type requires different kinds of training, investment and manpower. Many of us have enough cash or credit to purchase an expensive polishing machine, but this doesn’t mean it is the right choice for you. Even if your market will sustain the investment, it will be a poor choice if you don’t have the marketing budget to promote it. Don’t get me wrong — I’m not saying it is the wrong choice. I’m just saying it’s the wrong choice if not well planned for. The current economy leaves little room for mistakes and I don’t want to see any contractors getting in over their heads.