The world's foremost resource on decorative concrete
The pressure washer is one of the most useful and versatile tools available to the decorative concrete contractor. As with most tools of the trade, a pressure washer in the hands of a pro becomes a magic wand, while in the hands of a novice it can ruin your newly created surface.
Cheng Design Exchange announced the winners of its second annual Members Circle of Distinction Design Challenge at the World of Concrete 2006 in Las Vegas. The concrete countertop design competition received 93 submissions, resulting in a total of seven “Best” category winners, two Merit Awards, and 11 Honorable Mentions.
A look at the pros and cons of liquid and powder releases. When a contractor decides to apply a release agent to a wet concrete surface to keep it from sticking to a stamp, there are two ways to go: liquid or powder. Each has advantages, but each also causes problems.
A look at sandblasting, stenciled overlays and the new gelled-acid etching techniques.
A seasoned concrete contractor offers a step-by-step guide for success with decorative concrete steps.
Among the quirkier success stories of World of Concrete 2006 is a little texture-mat tamper that manufacturer Proline Concrete Tools dubbed "The Billy Banger."
Color and concrete have evolved. When considering adding color in conjunction with polishing, first it was integral colors or dry shake hardeners, then acid stains crept to the forefront as it became viable to combine densifying and acid stains.
Experts share their knowledge on everything from preparation to application — including how to achieve the most natural-looking colors.
Achieve pure, consistent color while providing your customers a highly reflective surface. Ninety-nine percent of the cement used in the United States is gray. The other 1 percent is a startlingly bright white color. Because it represents such a small share of the market, many contractors know little about white cement concrete.
Having operated my own business for one year already, I’ve learned that being a start-up has many, many challenges. However, one thing we have in our favor right now is that we qualified to be certified as a DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise), EBE (Emerging Business Enterprise), SBE (Small Business Enterprise) and M/WBE (Minority/Women Business Enterprise).
