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Choosing the Best Plants for a Poolside Landscape in San Jose

Pool deck resurfacing and pool landscaping are some of the best ways to enhance the look of the entire pool area. It promotes the use of natural decorative elements such as ornamental plants.

It is an eco-friendly option that does not consume as much energy as lighting and water features. To make the most out of a poolside landscape one must take into consideration the best types of plants.

What are the factors to consider when choosing plants?

Upkeep – Plants that require constant maintenance aren’t ideal for poolside landscape. Especially plants that tend to shed a ton of foliage.

Safety – Certain plants pose safety risks to swimmers. Large thorny plants can damage exposed skin and should not be placed anywhere near the pool.

Local Weather – The type of weather in your area is one of the most important considerations when choosing poolside plants. In San Jose, summers are long and arid so plants that thrive in cold weather are out of the question.

Size – The size of the plants should be considered to maximize the allotted area of a poolside landscape.

Color and Texture – Considering color and texture is more on the decorative end. These should complement the design of your existing pool area or the theme that the pool owner is going for.

Shady or Sunny Area – A pool owner has to consider where these types of plants are placed. Depending on the designated area, sun-loving and shade-loving plants should be placed.

The Ideal Kinds of Plants for Poolside Landscaping:

Succulents – Succulents don’t require as much watering as other plants because they are able to store water during long periods of time. In San Jose, most swimming pools are placed in areas that are under constant sun exposure. Because succulents thrive under the sun, you won’t have a problem with wilting.

One thing to note is that succulents tend to have spines. Those with large dangerous spines should be placed farther from the pool area to avoid harm. Another option is to choose succulents that have little to no spines at all.

Examples of Ideal Landscaping Succulents:

Aloe Vera

Agave Attenuata

Cotyledon

Certain Types of Euphorbia

Sempervivum

Ornamental Grasses – Ornamental grasses are great as ground cover and takes up any extra space in between plants. These are usually low-maintenance and don’t need regular trimming. Many ornamental grasses tolerate a wide range of weather conditions. These are ideal for adding texture and movement to the landscape design.

Examples of Ideal Landscaping Ornamental Grasses:

Bamboo

Yellow Foxtail Grass

Giant Reed

Fountain Grass

Japanese Blood Grass

Vines – These add an interesting twist to any landscape design. It can be guided to climb over walls, pillars and gazebos around a pool area. Fast growing vines are great for privacy by keeping the area obscured from view.

Examples of Ideal Landscaping Vines:

Honeysuckle

Jasmine

Trumpet Vine

Passionflower

Tropical Plants – Tropical plants are great for adding colors to a landscape design. These plants are ideal in San Jose because most are sun-loving. Tropical plants have exotic blooms that enhances the look of a landscape. Because these plants vary widely in color and texture, be careful not to make the landscape look to busy. Choose ones that complement surrounding plants.

Examples of Ideal Landscaping Tropical Vines:

Birds of Paradise

Palm Trees

Hibiscus

Hydrangeas

The post Choosing the Best Plants for a Poolside Landscape in San Jose appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2019/01/24/poolside-landscape-plants/

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Decorative Epoxy Coating Options For Commercial Concrete Floors

Commercial floors can be quite demanding when it comes to style and durability. Ordinary flooring won’t stand a chance against the constant foot traffic during operating hours or other damaging elements of a commercial environment. The qualities of epoxy flooring provide an effective solution to this that can’t be found in ordinary flooring. In this article, we look into the different decorative epoxy coating options for commercial concrete floors.X

Flake Blend Epoxy

Flake blend epoxy adds texture and color to floors by incorporating multi-colored flakes into the epoxy resin mixture. The flakes can either be of synthetic or natural mineral origin. Sizes are also available for coarser and finer textures as well as a wide array of color blends. Depending on the design and application technique applied, flake blend epoxy can also achieve natural granite or Terrazzo.

The look of flake blend epoxy naturally complements formal environments like office spaces, academic establishments, and banks. Even so, the texture and color of flake bend epoxy can be customized to match the ambiance of showrooms and automotive establishments.

Metallic Epoxy

Metallic epoxy is the preferred option for those who want a distinctly unique look for their floors. The visual effects achieved through metallic epoxy varies depending on the installer’s application technique and the look of the concrete floor itself. To achieve the metallic look, a fine shimmering pigment is blended into the epoxy resin mixture to add color and a glistening effect. Visual effects like swirls, craters, ripples and the look of plasma can be made to add movement and dimension.

Metallic epoxy is ideal for environments that celebrate artistic expressions like museums and art galleries. These are also ideal for adding an elegant accent in spas, restaurants and luxury hotels.

3D Epoxy

3D epoxy is an incredibly bold design choice installed to create eye-popping floors. How so? A graphic image is adhered to the bare floor and then poured over with a clear epoxy resin to create a 3-dimensional effect. The result is a realistic scenery that seems to be popping up from right underneath your feet. You can get ambitiously creative with the images you choose. The sky is literally the limit with this type of epoxy flooring.

3D epoxy floors add a striking whimsical scene to commercial areas that demand the attention of customers. Recreational establishments like malls, theme parks, resorts and other areas of amusement will surely benefit from this eye-catching flooring.

For more details on epoxy floor installations or other decorative concrete services, visit our webpage to learn more.

The post Decorative Epoxy Coating Options For Commercial Concrete Floors appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/11/20/epoxy-on-commercial-floors/

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How to Keep Weeds from Growing on Outdoor Concrete

Weed growth is one of the most common problems that affect outdoor concrete surfaces. This type of grass is very persistent and will grow back no matter how regularly we pull them out. The worst part is, they could grow even in the smallest of cracks on a concrete surface. It may seem harmless but its growth actually tears the concrete apart from inside. Here are some helpful tips to remove weeds and to keep them from growing back.

Removing Weeds from Concrete Driveways, Walkways, etc.

Aside from tugging and pulling them out, there are other ways to remove weeds from concrete cracks and gaps, such as:

Vinegar – Spray some vinegar on the weeds until they die. You may need to spray several times, depending on how thick the growth is. Just make sure not to spray on other plants because it could kill them, too.

Weeder – A weeder is a tool that is specially designed to remove weed along with its roots. It does not completely solve the problem but it slows down weed growth.

Commercial Herbicide – It is expensive but it is effective. It kills the existing weeds and keeps them from growing back. It is, however, quite dangerous to use as it emits fumes that could harm plants, pets, and even people.

Preventing Weeds from Growing Back

Prevention is better than cure. The same goes for concrete surfaces. Here are some preventive measures you could take to keep weeds from growing on your outdoor concrete.

Decorative Concrete Coatings and Overlays – Coatings or overlays create paver or tile-like patterns without real gaps. Weed won’t have any place to grow from so you get to maintain the seamless surface without any problem.

Seal or Fill the Cracks – Concrete repair is necessary to address those cracks and remove any spots from which weed could start to grow.

Landscape Fabric or Geotextile Mesh – These are installed before the concrete is poured. It makes it more difficult for weed to get past the mesh, thus, prohibiting its growth.

Salt – Mix salt with the soil to sterilize it. Nothing will grow in such soil. Just make sure that you avoid areas where you do want plants to grow.

If the weed problem you are facing is getting worse and getting more difficult to handle, consult a local weed control company to help you deal with it. Just make sure to discuss your options well and to choose a less toxic method if available.

The post How to Keep Weeds from Growing on Outdoor Concrete appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/10/24/prevent-outdoor-weed-growth/

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3 Common (and Costly) Concrete Driveway Mistakes Made by Unnprofessional Contractors

3 Common (and Costly) Concrete Driveway Mistakes Made by Bad Contractors

There are many contractors in San Jose, CA who offers concrete driveway services. It is so easy to just choose just anyone and have them do the work for you. You don’t even have to stick around and watch them work. However, a lot of things can go wrong if you are not careful in choosing a contractor. There are always bad contractors who are just in it for the money, not bothering to train and get licensed. Here are some of the most common and costly concrete driveway mistakes that could possibly happen.

Low-Quality Work

If you choose a contractor based on a super low bid, then don’t expect anything extravagant. A bid that is way too low than other bids you got from other contractors is a red flag. Any reliable contractor knows his limit when offering a low price. An extremely low bid may involve low-quality materials and minimal skill and expertise. You may have saved in the initial project but imagine how much you need to invest if it turns out bad and you need repairs to save your concrete space.

Improper Concrete Mix

A bad contractor does not know how to determine the proper ratio for a concrete mix. If they do but still do it improperly, it could indicate laziness or just not having the passion for concrete work at all. The durability and lifespan of a concrete slab highly depend on the proper mixing ratios prior to pouring. Aside from that, it could also be because the contractor did not spend enough time mixing the concrete. A reliable contractor should be trained on the proper measurement, mixing time, and sequence of mixing. If not, it could greatly affect the results they yield once the slab is dry and cured.

Doing the Job at the Wrong Time

One thing a licensed contractor is trained for is timing the project right. The climate is an important factor in scheduling the project. It is crucial for contractors to check the weather forecast and to know which time of the day it is best to do the work. Another thing that needs to be timed correctly is when to apply the sealer. Applying it too early could cause more harm than good.

The best way to avoid such mistakes and save yourself from unnecessary expenses is to take time researching about a contractor. Consider their experience, whether they are licensed or not, as well as some reviews from recent customers. It may take time and effort but it will be all worth it in the end.

The post 3 Common (and Costly) Concrete Driveway Mistakes Made by Unnprofessional Contractors appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/09/27/common-driveway-mistakes/

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3 Maintenance Tips after a Concrete Resurfacing Project

There is no such thing as maintenance-free. Even with decorative concrete, cleaning and maintenance are necessary. The big difference is that it is simple and easy. High-end paving and flooring materials, like stone and wood, require tedious cleaning and special products to keep it in good shape all the time. Not only is that exhausting, it is also quite costly. So, what is involved in the maintenance process for concrete resurfacing?

Dry Mopping

Regular mopping with a dry mop is enough to remove dust and restore the shine of a resurfaced concrete floor. This can be done daily or weekly, depending on how dirty the floors get. If foot traffic is high or if you have kids or pets, a daily routine is highly recommended.

The best type of mop to use for this purpose is microfiber. It creates a static electricity that makes dust and dirt stick, not just being pushed around.

Wet Mopping

Wet mopping is best for deep cleaning and removing stubborn dirt. This should be an occasional cleaning event. It could be done on a weekly or monthly basis, depending on how often the floor is used. The only exception is the kitchen floor where spills are more likely to happen.

When wet mopping, make sure that you mix the cleaning solution as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Rinse the mop in the solution as you go. Use neutral-pH cleaners especially if you have kids or pets at home. Mild dishwashing soap that is safe for hands is highly recommended. It does not leave a slippery residual film, leaving the floor squeaky clean.

Outdoor Surfaces

For outdoor resurfaced surfaces, a bristle push broom could be used to remove dirt, especially in grooves or joints. You may also pressure wash the area with a mild detergent. Just make sure to rinse it thoroughly. Pressure washing should only be done occasionally as the pressure could cause harm to the coating or sealer.

After your concrete resurfacing project is done, it is but natural for you to want to keep it looking new and in tip-top condition. It is highly recommended to ask your contractor about aftercare tips. Take note of the type of sealer used as well just in case you need to buy a cleaner and would want something that will work with what you have. The durability and longevity of your concrete rely on the level of maintenance you apply.

The post 3 Maintenance Tips after a Concrete Resurfacing Project appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/08/30/maintenance/

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3 Good Reasons Why You Should Hire a Stained Concrete Professional

Concrete surfaces are prone to stains and discoloration. Imagine how unpleasant it would look to have an oil stain on your driveway. Think of how terrible it would be to have guests walk into a kitchen floor with a red wine splatter stain on it. Although most stains are quite difficult to remove, they can easily be disguised with concrete staining. Here are good reasons why you should hire a professional to handle stained concrete jobs.

They are Knowledgeable about Stained Concrete

One of the best reasons why you should hire a pro is that they are well-versed with concrete acid stain and the process of installing it. This is highly important because no two concrete surfaces are alike. Pros are trained to determine the best type of stain and installation technique to yield the best possible results. Having the right knowledge will also lower the chances of committing mistakes.

They Have the Right Tools and Equipment

Staining a concrete surface will require tools and equipment for proper application. They have the right tools and equipment and they know which type will be most appropriate for the type of stain and design concept required. The application process comes naturally easy for them since they are trained to use such tools and equipment in the most efficient way.

Their Work is Guaranteed

When a DIY goes wrong, chances are, you would hire someone to fix it. Not only will this be time-consuming, it is also costly. If you a hire a pro to start with, you are assured that their work is guaranteed to be effective and that they could provide a warranty to come back and fix it for free within a given time frame. Pros minimize having to do back jobs by making sure they do it right the first time.

Instead of buying how-to books and watching video tutorials about how to do stained concrete on your own, hire someone who already has the knowledge, tools, and skill. Not only will this save you from all the heartache and hard work, it will also help save precious time and hard-earned money. Just make sure that you hire someone who is licensed, experienced, and one who offers a warranty. Leaving it to a professional, you are more likely to enjoy stunning stained concrete surfaces sooner and for a much longer time.

Description:

It can be quite tempting to do a stained concrete project on your own. While most people think that they might be able to save on costs with a DIY, it may be quite risky. Working with a pro, you are assured that the quality of work is worth every penny you have to pay. Licensed contractors have the knowledge required to ensure the best results. They know the right tool or equipment to use and they have it on hand. Their work also comes with a warranty, all the more proving how reliable their services are and the products they use.

The post 3 Good Reasons Why You Should Hire a Stained Concrete Professional appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/07/26/reasons-why-hire-stained-concrete-pro/

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3 Ways Epoxy Can Make Garage Flooring Fun

The garage is not just a place for cars, DIY projects, and unused items. It can also be used as a recreation space, an activity area, a man cave, and more. If you are looking to transform the garage into something the family could use, make sure that it is in an ideal condition. Oftentimes, garage floors are damaged, stained, and not presentable to look at. It needs something durable and long-lasting. The solution? Epoxy. Well, maybe you would say that it looks plain and boring, not exactly party-like? You would be surprised at how much fun an epoxy garage flooring can be.

High-Gloss Colors

A glossy floor reflects a lot of light and it is just perfect for a space for parties and recreational activities. Epoxy can come in different sheens and if you want something fun, you might want to go glossy with this. After choosing to go glossy, choose a color that is bright and vibrant. Forget the boring black, gray, or white.

Choose something that would captivate the eyes of kids, like orange, yellow, or light blue. Epoxy comes in colors that you never thought would be used on floors. You can even choose a pattern to install multiple colors with. Now, how fun is that?

  Multi-colored Paint Chips

You know the specks of colors found on granite or terrazzo? That same look can be replicated with epoxy and some multi-colored paint chips. However, to prevent a stone effect, it needs to look like confetti and glitter has just been thrown on it. After an epoxy coating is installed on the floor, glitter and sparkling silica chips can be added to make it look more festive.

It is highly recommended to choose chip and glitter colors that contrast the color of the epoxy. This way, every speck and fleck is highly visible to the eye. What a perfect flooring for birthday and new year’s eve parties.

  Metallic Epoxy

What’s not to love about anything metallic? The garage would be a lot more fun with metal tones on the floor, like copper, silver, bronze, and the ever-glamorous gold. Metallic epoxy offers the same benefits as the plain version offers. It is durable, long-lasting, seamless, and easy to clean. More than a metallic hue, an installer can also include patterns like swirls, wavy lines, ripples, and more.

Whatever type of epoxy you choose to install on your garage flooring, make sure that it is something you are willing to see every single day. It must be something that the whole family would be happy about. So, go gather the family and start discussing how you would like your garage floor transformed with the use of epoxy.

The post 3 Ways Epoxy Can Make Garage Flooring Fun appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/06/26/epoxy-makes-garage-flooring-fun/

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New Trend: Acrylic Flakes on Epoxy Garage Floor

Not all epoxy flooring are made equal. Some are made from the cheapest options for practicality. Some take advantage of its unique features, durability and easy maintenance, like the ones for commercial use. Some are more personally tailored. These are the ones constantly scrutinized by public eyes. That’s why acrylic flakes are here.

For garage floors needing constant good looks, colors matching, and imperfections hidden, these color chips are here to the rescue. They add beautiful color explosions for a custom-designed look.

For DIY people, here are the basic steps in coating your garage floor with epoxy enclaved in beautiful acrylic flakes.

Grind or sand down any uneven areas. Pressure wash concrete, spot degrease any areas with oil and grease accumulation. You can see water pulling up on top of grease. Pour degreaser and scrub the surface.

Mix muriatic acid with water. 1 bottle of acid to 2 gallons of water should be a good mixing ratio. Pour acid on the entire surface and scrub the whole area. This should create a texture on the concrete that provides a good mechanical adhesion to epoxy. It’s called “acid staining.”

Once done, fill cracks and large seams with epoxy crack repair filler. You can fill large gaps with cement based any patch products out there.

Now you can mix epoxy part A with part B. You can use a squeegee or a roller to spread epoxy. Remember, spikes shoes allow walking on the wet epoxy. You can apply 2 coats of epoxy if it looks too thin.

Apply acrylic flakes or polymerized sand, apply while base coat is wet. The easiest way to apply them is to pour them into a bucket, grab a handful at a time and just toss them into the air like you are feeding chickens. Double broadcast ratio means the flakes will leave no base coat visible. Full broadcast requires more chips thus you can do bigger handfuls when applying. Not all of the flakes are going to stick to the base coat.

When dry, vacuum any loose flakes. Sharp edges require sanding.

Apply a second coat and broadcast with acrylic flakes in the same fashion as the first coat.

Mix and apply a UV resistant top coat. Since broadcast was applied, use 2 coats of topcoat to give it a good shiny finish.

Add non-slip additive such as shark grip. A very nice color effect is glow in the dark sand.

Now that you know how to use color flakes to add beautiful effects or hide imperfections, have fun choosing the colors that match your taste and provide your desired effects. Whether you are planning to DIY your own metallic epoxy flooring garage or hire a professional to do it, knowing you can choose the colors and the density gives you the confidence of the transformation you can do to your epoxy garage flooring.

The post New Trend: Acrylic Flakes on Epoxy Garage Floor appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/04/17/acrylic-flakes-on-epoxy-garage-floor/

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What to Do with Sunken Concrete Patios

The concrete patio is an ideal place to gather with family and friends. It is that space where you could enjoy the outdoors without leaving the comfort of your home. If the patio starts to show wear and tear, its performance is affected. One of the worst types of damage is sunken concrete. Not only is it an eyesore, it looks pretty dangerous, too. If you are unsure if your patio is sinking, pour enough water on it and watch where the puddle forms. A sinking slab is an indication of soil settling or moving underneath the slab. Here are patio repairs you might need to consider depending on how severe the damage is:

Mudjacking

Mudjacking is a repair option for sinking concrete slabs. It makes use of a slurry that consists of sand, water, and a bit of portland cement, which is responsible for making the material hard and solid. The process starts with drilling a 1 ⅝” hole on the sunken slab. Using hydraulic pressure, the slurry is pumped into the void until the slab starts to lift back up to normal levels. This is considered a structural fill because the slurry can be very heavy once it solidifies. The slurry requires a day or two to cure before the patio can be used again.

Polyurethane Concrete Raising

This process of concrete raising is similar to mudjacking but it uses a different type of material. It starts with drilling a hole on the sunken slab, usually a ⅝” hole, which is an inch smaller than that required in mudjacking. A liquid polymer foam is then injected into the void. A chemical reaction then occurs, causing the foam to expand. This stabilizes any loose soil underneath and slowly raises the slab back into its rightful alignment. This is ideal for urgent projects because the material only needs 15 minutes to cure and solidify. This is a popular option because it cures fast, weighs a lot less than concrete, and uses a non-toxic material.

Concrete Replacement

Before any repairs, it is important to have an expert concrete contractor assess the sunken area. The results of the assessment will help you determine what the cause is, if a repair is still feasible, or if the entire concrete patio is better off replaced. Some repairs are too complicated and expensive that replacement costs pale in comparison.

The post What to Do with Sunken Concrete Patios appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/03/20/sunken-concrete-patios-solution/

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How to Make a Pool Deck Water, Salt, and Stain-Repellent

The swimming pool isn’t the only important feature in the pool area. The pool deck around it just as worthy of attention. No matter how pristine the pool is, a deteriorating pool deck could ruin the whole look. The chemicals in the pool that are effectively keeping the pool water free from bacteria are not that friendly on a pool deck.

Over time, continuous exposure to it could break down the surface of the deck and weaken the concrete. Even salt from salt-water pools could weaken concrete pool decks and cause white, powdery stains.

Here are some things you could try to minimize the damage that pool water chemicals and saltwater can cause.

Invest in a Good Pool Deck Sealer

Sealing concrete is highly recommended by concrete experts. Concrete is highly porous so you need something that would seal the pores to prevent it from absorbing anything. There are different pool deck sealers out there.

It is important that you choose the type that would best suit the type of pool you have. Salt-water pools need a special kind of sealer, one that could endure constant exposure to saltwater and salt build-up.

Resurface and Repair Pool Deck Cracks Immediately

Damage on the concrete pool deck makes it more vulnerable to stains and other damage. The crack, no matter how small, is an opportunity for water or salt to enter the slab. Once penetrated, it could wreak havoc from within the slab, causing deeper and more extensive damage. If you detect cracks, seal or fill it in immediately. If there are too many, pool deck resurfacing can help significantly. A stamped overlay can cover up minor surface damage and give the deck a newer look and a more durable surface. Just make sure to seal the overlay afterward for extra protection.

Reseal the Deck When Necessary

Sealers often only last a couple of years, more or less, depending on how much the pool deck is used. You don’t have to wait two years before reapplying the sealer. If you notice that the surface has gone dull, it is an indication that the sealer has faded. Make sure, though, that you use the same sealer you used before. But if you want to use another, the pool deck surface must first be sanded to remove any trace of the previous sealer used. Not doing so may cause issues.

The post How to Make a Pool Deck Water, Salt, and Stain-Repellent appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/02/12/water-salt-stain-repellent-pool-deck/

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What to Think About When Choosing a Pool Deck Resurfacing Material

A pool deck is an area around the swimming pool. The most common image that comes to mind when the word decking comes up is that of a wooden deck. However, concrete is also a popular and highly recommended material to use. It can be used bare or topped off with other materials, like tile and stone.

Pool decks are more than just paved surfaces around the pool. It is a functional element that serves as a lounging area, a transition from the house to the pool, a cover for the bare dirt underneath, and more. For all these reasons, it needs to be durable, appealing, and functional.

  When planning for the best pool deck resurfacing material, you must put deep thought into what material you should choose. To help you out, here are things you must think about to help guide you in choosing the right material:

Safety

Choose a material that has enough texture to keep anyone from slipping and falling. Surfaces tend to be more slippery when wet so it is best to test samples beforehand. A sealer mixed with an abrasive is a reliable solution to enhance grip. This, however, needs to be done every couple of years.

Comfort

The deck must be even enough to be comfortable to walk on. It hurts to walk on bumpy surfaces wearing flip-flops, let alone bare feet. Uneven tile or pavers could also cause tripping and falling.

Cool Surface

The sun can be harsh and it could cause a pool deck to heat up. You probably had the experience of having to walk on a scorching hot deck just to get to and from the pool. Choose a heat-reflective material that maintains a low temperature even in the warmest of days.

Aesthetics

The material you choose should be able to blend well to your home. Choose something that looks good and makes you happy. If you must, hire a designer to help you choose the right patterns, colors, and design concepts that would fit your property best.

Maintenance

Find a material that requires minimal cleaning and maintenance. If possible, ask an expert which materials are prone to algae growth, mold, mildew, and the like.

Durability

How long will the material last? How durable is it against damage? Choose materials that are able to stand up against abrasion, impact, stains, and other common damage.

The post What to Think About When Choosing a Pool Deck Resurfacing Material appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2018/01/15/choosing-pool-deck-resurfacing-material/

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5 Popular Pool Deck and Coping Options

While a swimming pool is a very important facility in any home, the deck and coping around it are just as essential. A pool deck and coping makes the pool experience more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable. A coping is a material that covers the spot where the edge of the swimming pool meets with the edge of the deck. It is a cap to make the edge safer, more comfortable, and more convenient. Here are some of the most popular types of material used for pool decks and pool copings:

Brick

Brick is one of the most classic materials used for outdoor walls and surfaces. Although it is not often used on pool decks, it is a popular choice for copings. It can be installed parallel to the edge of the pool or like one row of a stacked bond pattern. Brick makes the pool area more decorative. It is a slip-resistant material so it is a safe surface to walk on even when wet. The average cost could be somewhere between $25-$30 per linear foot.

Pavers

The great thing about pavers is that it comes in a wide range of shapes. You can incorporate a pattern or design with the few colors that they come in. This requires a professional install to ensure that the pieces are fitted together appropriately and that the whole surface is leveled enough to prevent water from puddling in one spot. The average cost of paver installation is $20-$25 per linear foot.

Natural Stone

There are many different types of natural stone that can be used as paving materials. The most popular for pool decks and copings are flagstone, travertine, slate, and more. This is more expensive, ranging between $35-$55 per linear foot, because the stone may need to be shipped in, cut and flattened, and installation requires the skill of an expert mason.

Tile

Tile has always been a popular material for areas that often get wet, however, it is not the most slip-resistant of pool deck materials. Nowadays, though, there are non-skid tiles you could use for pool decking and coping. Outdoor tile costs somewhere between $2 to $6 per square foot.

Stamped Concrete

A stamped overlay is a practical choice because it is durable but affordable. It can be made to look like the materials mentioned here and much more. This, however, needs to be installed with a cantilever to support it. A stamped overlay costs something like around $12 per square foot, depending on many factors like pattern, colors, and job size.

The post 5 Popular Pool Deck and Coping Options appeared first on San Jose Concrete Resurfacing.

from https://www.sanjoseconcreteresurfacing.com/2017/12/18/popular-pool-deck-coping-options/

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The Truth Behind 6 False Facts about Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is becoming a trend for both indoor and outdoor surfaces nowadays because of its expensive looking aesthetics at a more affordable cost. However, there are homeowners who are still quite hesitant about it because of some myths that they have come to believe is true. Before completely rejecting this economical decorative concrete application, let’s straighten out the facts, shall we? Here are some of the most common beliefs about stamped concrete and why you should not believe them.

False Fact 1: “It looks fake”

As long as you hire a professional and experienced installer, concrete stamping will have a realistic resemblance to the material it is being substituted for, from pattern to color. However, if you try to do it yourself, or hire a know-it-all newbie, then your floor would definitely look fake.

False Fact 2: “Slippery when wet”

Only a smooth surface will be slippery when wet. Stamped concrete, on the other hand, involve patterns that provide texture to the surface for good traction. Some even apply a sealer mixed with grit to make the surface a lot more slip-resistant.

False Fact 3: “The overlay will peel and flake off”

If applied correctly, the concrete overlay is almost as durable as a new concrete slab. Unless you scratch the surface with a really sharp object, the surface will remain intact.

False Fact 4: “It is prone to cracks”

Any concrete floor is prone to cracks especially if there is strong movement or displacement underneath it. Stamped concrete installers know this for a fact which is why they incorporate expansion joints or scorelines into the patterns to give the concrete some room to move and expand. This way, new cracks can be prevented.

False Fact 5: “It doesn’t last long”

Concrete is one of the most durable materials for construction. Before an overlay is applied, a pro installer would prepare the old concrete underneath to rid it from any dirt, grime, minor cracks, pits, and the likes. This makes it easier to apply the overlay and makes the two layers more adherent to one another, thus, strengthening the floor. It can last a lifetime if well taken care of.

False Fact 6: “Deicing salts make stamped concrete weak”

Although deicing salts are a big no-no on stamped concrete, this doesn’t mean that it could weaken the actual overlay. Such salts can damage the protective sealer, not the overlay itself. This means the floor will retain its pattern and strength, but the shine of the sealer will fade.

These are just some of the most common myths that affect stamped concrete decisions anywhere. Some may be from a misunderstanding and some may have been results of a traumatic stamped concrete experience. No matter what you hear about this certain decorative concrete application, it is highly recommended for homeowners to talk with a professional stamped concrete contractor first to clarify all doubts. This way, they would get the right information which will ultimately lead to a more sound decision for floor resurfacing projects.

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