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Seal Garage Floor or Not? – Pros and Cons of Concrete Sealing

There is probably no other floor as hardworking as garage floors are. It carries the weight of the vehicle and all other stored items in the garage. It is exposed to spilled oil, chemicals, and grease. It acquires holes, cracks, and dents upon contact with falling tools. All these are just some of the reasons why professional concrete contractors recommend concrete sealing the garage floor. Here is a brief look at the pros and cons of concrete sealers.

Pros of Concrete Sealing

Sealers help a concrete garage floor repel moisture. Concrete is a very porous material. A layer of sealer seals the pores, keeping it from absorbing any moisture on it.

A layer or two of sealer will help extend the lifespan of a garage floor. It serves as a protective layer that keeps damaging elements at bay.

Sealing the garage floor helps enhance its aesthetics. Epoxy flooring, for example, dries to a really high gloss, making the floor look polished and shiny.

If you have a colored concrete garage flooring, sealers can help keep the color from fading, flaking, or peeling off.

Sealers keep any type of liquid from staining the garage floor. Remember how easy it was for grease and oil to leave ugly stain marks on the floor? With a layer of sealer, the grease and oil stay on the surface, making it easy to wipe away completely.

Cons of Concrete Sealing

Sealer application is an additional expense for the homeowner. The wider the floor area, the more sealer is needed, the more expensive it will be.

Some concrete sealers dry glossy, making the surface less slip-resistant. However, fine aggregate can be added to add some kind of non-skid texture when it dries.

Sealers will dull and fade after a few years. Faster if the garage floor experiences heavy vehicle and foot traffic. It would need to be reapplied every couple of years or so.

Sealing products can not be used on newly poured concrete. Homeowners would have to wait 28 to 30 days when the concrete has completely cured. Applying the sealer too early will be detrimental to the durability of the new concrete slab.

Most sealers are made of chemicals that can be dangerous to both humans and the environment. Environment-friendly versions are being developed nowadays but it costs more than traditional sealing products.

See More Here: Seal Garage Floor or Not? – Pros and Cons of Concrete Sealing

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Garage Floors Philadelphia, PA | (717) 245-2829 - https://youtu.be/qIoOZv6dqzU

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Creative & Smart Garage Organization Ideas

When people organize the house, more often than not, all unwanted stuff go to the garage. It becomes some sort of storage room with all the stuff propped up against the wall, sitting on the garage floors, or shoved into cabinets ready to burst open. This is one reason why the garage is often messy and disorganized. The solution to a cleaner and more organized garage is not to move stored stuff to another room. There are smart and creative ways to make it beautiful, spacious, and functional.

Creative Pegboards

A pegboard is one of the most versatile materials around. You often see them in department store displays. While it is not a new option for garages, it can be made more creative and fun. Instead of leaving it white or brown, why not paint over it in a color that matches the rest of the garage? It would look more connected and more stunning this way. You might also want to use pegboards on cabinet doors to double the storage option of cabinets.

Improved Garage Flooring

No matter how spic and span the garage is, it would still look messy if the garage floor is dirty, stained, and damaged. Transforming it into an epoxy flooring can help make it easier to the eyes for a longer time. The great thing about the epoxy coating is that it is a lot easier to clean and maintain, thus, making it easier for you to organize the entire garage. Epoxy is also an effect concrete sealing material that covers up minor damage on a concrete garage floor.

Adding Caster Wheels

Caster wheels, like those found under swivel chairs, make anything portable. If you work in the garage a lot and need more than one item at a time, putting all those stuff in a bin with caster wheels make it easier to move it around. This way, you won’t have to walk back and forth getting and returning every single item you use. Make sure to apply concrete sealers on your garage floor to keep it from acquiring wheel marks.

Handy Mason Jars

If you have leftover paint, don’t leave them in their original cans. Not only will this take up space, the cans will also be a lot more difficult to open when you need it. Instead, transfer leftover paint in clear glass mason jars. It saves space and makes it easier for you to find the right paint color you need. Mason jars are also great for storing small items like nails, hooks, and the like.

Read Full Article Here: Creative & Smart Garage Organization Ideas

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Concrete Driveway Philadelphia, PA | (717) 245-2829 - https://youtu.be/H4862cQjWKI

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Popular Stamped Concrete Patterns for a Driveway

Planning a driveway renovation should not be taken lightly. It is a major element in enhancing curb appeal. Because it often involves a wide area, a concrete driveway is the most practical option. But who says you have to endure a boring concrete surface just to keep costs at bay? Decorative stamped concrete overlay is the best option if you are after aesthetics and affordability. Plus, it’s such a bonus that it is durable and easy to maintain as well. Here are some of the most popular patterns for concrete stamping an overlay on a driveway:

Cobblestone

Originally used in the European part of the globe, cobblestone roads consisted of smooth rocks placed together like pavers. The pattern it creates is interesting and impressive to look at. It also provides enough traction to make it an ideal design for dirt roads. It is one of the most popular driveway resurfacing patterns for these reasons. It looks good on any driveway, regardless of the theme and concept of its architectural design.

Brick

Nothing is as timeless as brick itself. It can be used on walls and pavements. On a concrete overlay, a stamped brick pattern come in several variations. You can choose for a simple running brick pattern or a herringbone pattern for a more interesting and decorative look. There is also the option of a basketweave or a fan pattern. The possibilities are endless.

Ashlar

The great thing about an ashlar pattern is that it can be designed to look like a traditional paving material or a modern geometric surface. Incorporating an ashlar pattern with natural stone is great for homes with a more classical or traditional aesthetic. If your home is more on the contemporary side, you might want to incorporate ashlar with shades of gray, black, and white and with a smoother surface like that of bricks.

Slate

Slate can be used with a wide range of stamped patterns, such as ashlar and tile. You may also stamp a fractured slate pattern seamlessly or just some minimal scoring or engraving. One popular use for a slate pattern is to use it on the whole driveway and then choose another pattern, like a brick pattern, to line the edges or to break the monotony for every few meters or so. This can be made more customized and a lot more realistic with manual concrete staining.

Learn More Here: Popular Stamped Concrete Patterns for a Driveway

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Stamped Concrete Patterns for Patio Makeover

The patio is an important area of a house. It is an outdoor living space where people can hang out, relax, and entertain guests. It is important to keep the concrete surface in good condition so as to enhance the enjoyment and comfort of those using it. This is what decorative concrete resurfacing is for. One of the most popular patio makeover solutions is the use of a stamped concrete overlay. It is aesthetic, durable, and economical. What’s not to like? Here are some of the most popular patterns that stamped concrete contractors offer:

Ashlar

This features the pattern of finely cut masonry. It shows a pattern of individual stones with edges cut to a straight line. The stones are in random sizes but all with hard, finely cut edges. This pattern can be stamped on plain concrete and then sealed. But some prefer the pattern to be incorporated with a stained concrete overlay, with each stone having different hues or different shades of one color.

Fractured Slate

This pattern aims to mimic the look of a dense, fine-grained metamorphic rock. Slate, when broken or fractured, retains its natural stone look because it maintains its almost flat surface. Expansion joints or score lines can be added to the overlay with this pattern. It can be left gray or stained with a bluish purple or bluish green color to replicate the stone more accurately.

  Cobblestone

Cobblestone is a naturally rounded rock used on roads in the olden times. Each stone is larger than a pebble but not as big as a boulder. These stones are laid out on streets and then sealed in place with mortar. This pattern looks good on patios, adding a bit of classic paving beauty to it.

  Flagstone

Flagstone, or flat stone, is known for its thin slab-like appearance, It is naturally flat so there isn’t much need to trim it down to a walkable surface. These are cut randomly and looks better with irregular shapes. The stamped flagstone pattern makes the patio look natural without the expensive cost that comes with real stone. This is often stained to achieve a more realistic aesthetic.

Brick

Probably the most common paving material used on patios, brick is also available for a stamped overlay surface. These are easier to do since the pattern is quite equal and uniform all throughout. This pattern can also be used as a border or frame around the patio area.

  Post Source Here: Stamped Concrete Patterns for Patio Makeover

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Decorative Concrete Philadelphia, PA (717) 245-2829 - https://youtu.be/Lq7D0UfL95Y

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Resurfacing Concrete Vs Replacing Concrete

Concrete is an ever-reliable material for floors. Some use them as plain concrete while some use it with tile, brick, and other paving materials. When a bare concrete floor gets damaged, the ancient solution was to replace it with a new mix of concrete. However, technology and innovation presented new, more practical concrete repair options to retain concrete slabs. So, which is better? Decorative concrete resurfacing or new concrete re-pour? Read on to find out if you should resurface or replace concrete floors.

Cost

Budget is a huge influencing factor when it comes to making a choice. Obviously, replacing the concrete slab is a lot more expensive with all that old slab removal, new concrete mix, and steel foundation. Concrete resurfacing, on the other hand, only requires a thin layer of new material on top of an old slab. Material and labor cost are kept to a minimum.

Value

Both resurface and re-pour add value to a property. They both enhance the interior or exterior of a home or commercial establishment especially if the look and function of the floor are updated or improved. However, you’d surely win with a resurfaced concrete floor because it gives you as much value as a replacement but with a smaller investment.

Durability

The initial thought would be that replacing the whole concrete slab is a lot more durable. This is not true. It is important to remember that concrete is a very durable material. As long as the structure is still in good condition, it can last as long as a newly installed slab. Also, the amount of foot or vehicular traffic on the slab can affect the durability of the floor, be it a new pour or a resurfaced one.

Aesthetics

A newly poured concrete provides a better look because it is new. What’s amazing is that a resurfaced can be just as attractive, if not better. A stamped concrete overlay, for example, can immediately enhance the look of an old concrete floor. You can choose from a wide range of patterns to match your home. Stained concrete is also another way to beautify a plain concrete floor. It comes in acid and water-based forms, each with a range of colors to choose from. Resurfaced floors are easier to update in case the time comes and you want to change the look of the concrete floor again.

Post Source Here: Resurfacing Concrete Vs Replacing Concrete

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Stamped Concrete Philadelphia, PA | (717) 245-2829 - https://youtu.be/y_iYBathuAo

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Spring Inspired Patio Ideas

Spring is just around the corner. The birds are out chirping and flying from branch to branch. Flowers are blooming slowly but ever so elegantly. It is that time when hanging out on the patio is the best possible way to enjoy the season. To get your patio ready for this wonderful time of the year, here are some patio ideas you should definitely try.

Think Floral

Spring is all about the blooming of flowers so what better way to incorporate the season than to add flowers into the setup. Flowering plants in pots are the easiest accessories you can add to the patio. It may even be cut flowers in a vase on a patio table. If these are too high-maintenance for you, then opt for floral prints on curtains, tablecloths, or pillow covers. If you are quite artsy, you can paint some flowers on the walls. There are concrete patio companies that have concrete stamps with floral designs. Or you can have concrete stamping contractors carve or engrave floral designs on the patio.

Add Patterns

There are a lot of fun patterns that can make the Spring season a lot more emphasized. Polka dots, stripes, floral, and more. These patterns can be incorporated into different fabric items. Don’t be scared using contrasting patterns in the same area. Just make sure that these come in matching or complementing colors. A stamped concrete patio is one of the best ways to incorporate patterns. It may seem too much but the stamped concrete cost per square foot is less expensive and more durable than painting or replacing the patio.

Use Bright Colors

Yellow, orange, pink, blue, green, and probably every bright color in the palette is a great color to use for a Spring-inspired patio. The great thing about color is that it can easily be incorporated anywhere in the patio, from the roof all the way to the floor. You don’t need to use carpets or rugs to add color to the floor. Since this is an outdoor surface, the solution is to stain it in bright colors. Concrete stains can be used on plain concrete surfaces or those that have just gone through concrete stamping. Paint your flower pots in a color of your preference. If you have wooden patio furniture, you may paint them, too. If you don’t wish to, then add some pillows or throws in bright colors to make the area a lot more inviting.

Source Here: Spring Inspired Patio Ideas

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Patio Project 101

Whether you are building or renovating a patio, the actual process can be quite challenging. No one wants to just go ahead and proceed with the project with proper planning. Unless you are willing to waste your time, money, and energy. Keep in mind that the patio will be an addition to your property. Something you cannot easily forgo or remove if you suddenly decide that you don’t want it. For beginners, as well as those who got a second chance to redo their patios, here are factors to consider for a patio project.

Know What You Want

One good question to ask yourself is “What are you looking for in a patio?”. It is easy to say that you want a huge slide, a huge brick firepit, a retractable shade, and anything over-the-top. But you have to be realistic. Do you and your family spend a lot of time outdoors? What activities do you often love to do? If you love roasting marshmallows, then include a fire pit in your list of must-have features. If you have no idea at all, browse through magazines or ask family members about their ideas.

Set a Specific Budget

Having a specific amount to spend helps you determine what can and cannot be included in the plan. If the sky is the limit then, by all means, install whatever you want. But if the budget is limited, make wise decisions. There are many affordable options out there that do not compromise quality and style. A stamped concrete overlay, for example, is a less expensive alternative to concrete stamping newly poured slab.

Browse for Materials and Designs

Do not limit your choices to materials and designs that you are already familiar with. There are many options out there so keep an open mind. When you think of a patio, the most common materials that come to mind are brick, stone pavers, and wood. But you would be surprised how a stamped concrete patio can be customized to look exactly like those materials. You may have been programmed to accept that only earthy colors are acceptable for patios but you’d be amazed at how pastels and neons can make the area a lot more stylish and interesting

Choose Sustainable Options

Nowadays, sustainability is such a huge factor in both the commercial and residential industry. Choose materials and designs that are easy to maintain and friendly to the environment. Using concrete stamps on an old concrete patio can actually help lower carbon footprint because it lowers the demand for manufacturing new concrete. Artificial grass is easier to maintain and water-efficient compared to real grass.

Discuss with an Expert

Don’t do all the researching and browsing yourself. Consult with an expert in the field of patio building or renovation. Some offer free consultations and price quotes so take advantage of that opportunity. They know more about materials, designs, and other important factors involved in patio projects so you know you are getting reliable assistance and information.

Read More Here: Patio Project 101

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How To Add Character To Interior Designs

Just because a home is well-decorated, doesn’t mean it exudes enough character to overwhelm guests. Making it a lot more attractive does not even require a remodel. There are affordable ways to add character to a room. Here are some:

Use Rugs

Choose rugs that complement the overall theme of the room. If your furniture and walls have patterns, choose a plain rug. If the walls and furniture have single colors, choose a patterned rug. The most common area this is placed is under the center coffee table, by the fireplace, or by the door.

Add Plants

Plants will always be the best decorative add-ons. If you have a lot of space, add tall plants in decorative pots and place them in corners or by the window. If you have a lot going on already, choose the smaller types and place them on the center table or above the fireplace. You can also have a vertical garden built indoors if you have a bare wall somewhere. Vertical gardens are gorgeous and very easy to maintain.

Resurface Floors

A decorative concrete overlay in Philadelphia is a popular floor enhancement solution. A professional concrete contractor lays out the coating or overlay onto an existing interior floor and then customize it to your liking. Some of the popular options are stamped patterns, acid or water-based stains, paint chips, epoxy coating, and more.

Hang Wall Decor

This is a no-brainer. Bare walls could definitely use some wall decor. But choose your items wisely. Sometimes, instead of adding character to the room, it does the opposite. Choose timeless pieces that go with just about any furniture you have. You can even recycle stuff and hang them on the wall. This could be an old wagon wheel, an old glass-less window frame, an intricately designed throw, and more.

Lighting

Lighting can do so much. Not only will it be decorative, it provides additional illumination. If you are choosing stand-alone lighting fixtures like lamps, make sure their sizes are appropriate for the space you have. If the room is small, opt for thin and tall ones. For wider spaces, bulky lamps will go well. You may also want to avoid having one bulb receptacle on the ceiling. Choose about four if the room is wide enough. Have them installed like penlights or as decorative lighting fixtures hanging from the ceiling or wall.

Post Source Here: How To Add Character To Interior Designs

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Easy Patching Tips For Simple Concrete Damages

Patching is the most common concrete repair in Philadelphia for minor concrete damage, such as cracks and holes. It can be done using concrete or a special patching agent. Whether you are a homeowner planning a DIY or a licensed concrete contractor in Philadelphia, here are some helpful tips and gentle reminders:

Make sure that the damaged area is cleaned and dried off first before any repairs are done. Using a stiff brush, brush off any debris or dust. Pressure wash the surface to remove any stubborn or built up dirt. If you notice any loose or unsound concrete, chisel or hammer it off.

Wear protective gear, such as gloves, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and safety glasses. This is to protect yourself while hammering or chiseling loose concrete off.

Before mixing the concrete or patching agent, check the manufacturer’s instructions and make sure to follow it to a T.

Do not add too much water when mixing. Just add a little at a time until it reaches a peanut butter-like consistency.

When preparing the mixture for patching, mix only an amount that will surely be used within 20 to 30 minutes. If not, the rest will dry and harden before it even gets used.

To test if a mixture is too dry, apply a little near the damaged spot. Broom it and check if it creates broom marks or balls. If balls form, then it is too dry. Add some water, mix it well, and test it again.

If a crack or hole needs a ¼-inch thick patch, apply it in layers. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next. Applying one big lump of concrete or patching compound might need more time to dry. Also, inconsistent curing might occur.

If there are too many minor cracks and holes, a decorative concrete resurfacing Philadelphia solution is more ideal. This way, all the damage is taken care of and the surface’s appeal and durability are improved.

Tape off the area where the decorative concrete overlay is not needed. This protects that area and makes cleanup easier.

Whether you went for a simple patching or decorative concrete in Philadelphia, make sure to protect the area for about 24 hours while the concrete dries. Even if it is dry, the area should be kept from foot traffic or furniture for a minimum of 3 days to ensure proper curing.

Read Full Article Here: Easy Patching Tips For Simple Concrete Damages

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Decorative Concrete Philadelphia, PA | (717) 245-2829 - https://youtu.be/DJHhTmXSTHo

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Concrete Repair Philadelphia, PA (717) 245-2829 - https://youtu.be/KQ5Z88YXQBk

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How to Revitalize Concrete Surfaces

Concrete surfaces are pretty dull by itself. But thankfully, it is a pretty versatile material. So when you find yourself standing on a worn-out carpet, remove it. Are the wooden floorboards rotting and squeaking? Take it out. Expose the concrete underneath and use that instead. It may not be pretty now but it will be if you revitalize it. But how? Read on for some cool concrete repair Philadelphia solutions that would breathe new life into an old concrete floor.

Add Texture

Adding a uniform texture throughout a concrete surface makes it look newer and more appealing. There are decorative concrete coatings in Philadelphia that you can choose from for indoor and outdoor concrete floors. An acrylic concrete coating, for example, is sprayed onto an old slab and then troweled with a hand trowel. The resulting texture is similar to stucco but a bit smoother.

Incorporate a Design

A concrete surface becomes a lot more interesting if it has something decorative on it, like a design. Imagine walking on a floor with a basketweave pattern. It makes you want to look at it, right? Decorative concrete overlays in Philadelphia, such as stamped concrete overlay, is a great way to make floors more interesting. There is a wide selection of designs and patterns that can be imprinted on concrete. You can even replicate the look of flagstone, slate, brick, and other expensive paving materials with just a concrete overlay.

Make it Shine

If you prefer the natural look of concrete, so be it. But you can still revitalize it while retaining its classic look. A concrete sealer can instantly make a concrete surface look shiny and new. It is also a good way to protect the slab from further damage. It is highly advisable to consult a professional concrete contractor in Philadelphia to know what type of sealer would work best for your concrete floor. Another way to make concrete surfaces shiny is by having them polished by a pro. The process involves grinding the surface with a series of coarse to fine grinding bits.

Intensify the Color

Gray is not necessarily an exciting color. In fact, that particular color is being used to denote gloominess. You can make a concrete surface more vibrant with a good coating of concrete stain. Be it acid or water-based, stains can hide blemishes, ugly stains, and concrete discoloration. You can use one color or apply multiple hues in layers or in a pattern.

Post Source Here: How to Revitalize Concrete Surfaces

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What You Need to Know About Concrete Repair

Concrete was and will always be the material of choice in most construction or remodeling projects. Why? Because it is durable, versatile, and a great base material. Although it can last for several years, if properly installed, several factors could cause some issues like cracks, scaling, spalling, and more. Before you call for help, it is important to be guided when it comes to concrete repair Philadelphia services.

Is it necessary?

It is important to assess all concrete surfaces regularly to catch damage at the earliest possible. It can be difficult to determine the extent of damage on your own which is why it is highly recommended to consult an expert. A professional concrete contractor in Philadelphia would be able to determine if any damage on the surface is just topical or a symptom of something more serious underneath.

What type of fix is needed?

There are many different solutions for various concrete issues. The contractor should be able to recommend some repairs but it is important for you to know what they are. Just to make sure that it is something you want and something you can afford. For surface issues, concrete coatings in Philadelphia are recommended solutions. It covers up surface repairs and enhances the appeal and function of the existing concrete slab as well. For deeper and more serious issues, a complete re-pour may be needed.

How long would it take?

The period of time needed to complete a repair may depend on the type of repair to be done. Decorative concrete overlays in Philadelphia may take 3 days to a week to complete since it may involve some stamping, stenciling, engraving, or staining. Some coatings, like polyurea polyaspartic, takes only a day to install and dry, making it an ideal coating material for urgent resurfacing projects.

How much would it cost?

Costs may vary depending on the type of repair, the material and labor cost, and any additional accents or customization. Professional contractors estimate costs per square foot of the area that needs repairing. Most are willing to give a free price quote for your project. For a more accurate estimate, ask several contractors for a quote and go for the one that is most comfortable to you.

Why is it necessary to hire a pro?

DIY projects are highly popular nowadays. There is nothing wrong with trying to cut on expenses by doing repairs yourself. However, it is important to understand that the more complex a project would be, the more time it is going to require from you. Hiring professionals to do concrete repairs are actually more efficient because it comes with a warranty. You can also guarantee that it will be done properly using the right tools and equipment. A DIY is often a trial-and-error process. If it doesn’t work out, you might have to do it all over again. That means double the time and double the costs.

See More Here: What You Need to Know About Concrete Repair