Wednesday, 24 October 2018

3 Benefits of a Well-Kept Commercial Parking Lot

Most commercial establishments need to have a parking lot, be it for their employees, customers, or both. But it is not enough to just have that space where they could park their cars. It must be well-designed and well-kept to make it a beneficial asset to your business. Here are the benefits you get if your commercial parking space is clean and well-maintained.

Less Damaged Cars, Less Liability

commercial decorative concreteIf the parking lot is not maintained properly, it could damage vehicles. The driveway, for example, could tear out or puncture holes in tires if it has a lot of holes and chipped off areas. Car owners might even sue you for such damage. To avoid such issues, hire a contractor to install a decorative concrete coating on the driveway and all throughout the parking lot. Not only will the surface be easier and safer to drive on but it will also make your entire establishment look impressive.

Customers Will Want to Visit Your Establishment More Often

commercial decorative concreteCustomers want a comfortable and convenient parking space. If they know that your parking lot is in bad shape, they will find someplace else to get the product or service they need. Some customers may find a nearby parking spot but not everyone is willing to walk far just to get to your store and back to their car.

 

Regular Maintenance Will Help Prevent Unnecessary Costs

Situation 1: Business owner invests in a pavement material and designs the parking lot to look safe and inviting. Whenever a powerwash or repair is needed, he immediately hires someone to do it.

Situation 2: Business owner invests in a pavement material and designs the parking lot to look safe and inviting. He skips the cleaning and repairs thinking that the parking space is still usable and that hiring someone to attend to it will only cost a lot of money.

commercial decorative concrete parking lotWho do you think gets to save more money? In situation 1, the business owner is able to prevent costly repairs because he immediately addresses the need for repairs while the damage is minimal and affordable to repair. In situation 2, the damage could get worse because it is never addressed. As a result, the damage will require more expensive repair methods that will require more material and manpower.

Keeping a well-kept commercial parking lot is easy, painless, and affordable. Plus, your establishment gets more visitors, get better employee reviews, and customers are more likely to stay loyal to your business.

The post 3 Benefits of a Well-Kept Commercial Parking Lot appeared first on Miami Concrete Artisans.



source https://www.miamiconcreteartisans.com/well-kept-commercial-parking-lot-benefits/

Wednesday, 26 September 2018

5-Point Guide in Keeping the Concrete Driveway in Good Shape

5-Point Guide in Keeping the Concrete Driveway in Good Shape

Most homes in Miami have driveways. The most common material is concrete because it is affordable and easy to maintain. However, like any paving material, it is not invincible. But with proper maintenance, it could stay in good shape for many, many years.

Seal the Driveway

concrete driveway dallasConcrete is a durable material but it also a very porous one. This means it has pores that dirt and water could easily enter, wreaking havoc within the slab. Raw, newly installed concrete should be sealed after it has properly cured. The concrete driveway sealer acts as a protective layer, keeping anything from penetrating the surface.

 

Clean it Regularly

Don’t allow dirt, debris, or any spill from sitting on the concrete for too long. These could weaken the sealer and ultimately cause damage to the concrete. Wipe away spills immediately, especially if it is oil, gas, or grease. Sawdust or cat litter is an efficient material for absorbing spills. Just leave it for a few hours or a day before sweeping it off.

 

Address Problem Areas Immediately

If you spot a damaged area, deal with it immediately. Seal cracks and fill holes to keep elements from penetrating those problematic areas. If you are unsure what the damage is or what the right solution is, consult a concrete expert so they may advise you on what to do or maybe do the repairs himself.

 

Winterize Properly

Instead of using deicing salts, opt for a fine aggregate, like sand. It enhances grip and traction without causing spalling on the surface of the driveway. If you shovel snow off of your driveway, do it carefully. Avoid making the metal edge hit the driveway strongly to keep it from getting dented or cracked.

Park in the Right Spot

concrete driveway miamiSome homes do not have garages and, instead, homeowners park their vehicles on the driveway itself. If this is the case in your home, make sure that you park in the middle of the driveway, not on the edge. The edge is a lot weaker and the weight of the car could put too much stress and cause it to crack or break.

These tips are not difficult and tedious so it is highly recommended for homeowners to apply it in their concrete driveway maintenance routine. It may require a bit of effort and time on your end but the result will be quite favorable and beneficial to you.

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source https://www.miamiconcreteartisans.com/keeping-driveway-in-good-shape/

Wednesday, 15 August 2018

A Guide to Choosing Indoor and Outdoor Concrete Resurfacing Material

A Guide to Choosing Indoor and Outdoor Concrete Resurfacing Material

The demand for solutions that can make a home more aesthetically pleasing at an affordable cost keeps rising. Fortunately, decorative concrete was created to provide impressive applications that can push the versatility of concrete to levels no one ever thought possible. The decision now lies with the homeowner. One important factor to consider is whether your concrete space is indoors or out. Here is a brief look at each concrete resurfacing application and for which setting they are most appropriate for use.

Stamped Concrete Overlay

concrete resurfacing miami

The stamping application uses stamp mats to create imprints of another material or pattern on an overlay. Popular patterns include ashlar, brick, natural stone, wood, tile, and more. This can be used on both indoor and outdoor concrete but it is more popular for use outdoors because of its ability to replicate the look of stone and other outdoor paving materials.

 

Stained Concrete

concrete resurfacing miami

Acid and water-based staining is a method of coloring concrete. The stain is applied on the surface of the concrete and then left to penetrate the slab until it dries. It can be used directly on the slab or as an add-on to an overlay or coating. Concrete stains can be used on both indoor and outdoor concrete.

 

Epoxy Flooring

garage flooringEpoxy floor coating is a material that consists of an epoxy resin and a polyamine hardener. Equal parts of these two materials are mixed together and then applied on top of a concrete surface. The coating cures into a very tough and durable material that is resistant to most types of damage. This can only be used indoors because it is not stable when exposed to UV rays. It could weaken and discolor when exposed to the sun.

Spray Knockdown Texture

concrete resurfacing miamiAlso known as knockdown texture, this acrylic concrete coating is applied on a concrete surface using a spray-down method. The material is loaded into a hopper gun, sprayed on a surface, and then later knocked down with a trowel. This can be used on both indoor and outdoor surfaces but it is highly popular for concrete pool decks because of its slip-resistant texture and cool surface.

Determining the type of material should be based on whether it is appropriate for indoor or outdoor use. By following this guide, you can make sure that the type of concrete resurfacing material you choose is appropriate and will last a long time.

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source https://www.miamiconcreteartisans.com/choosing-concrete-resurfacing-material/

Wednesday, 25 July 2018

Stained Concrete 101: Frequently Asked Questions

One of the best ways to improve and enhance a plain concrete surface is stained concrete. There are numerous colors to choose from and you can mix and match two or more of those to your liking. Whether it is for an indoor or outdoor surface, you are sure to find the right aesthetics that will make your space sensational. Amazing as it is, it is important that you understand the basics of concrete staining before you make your final decision.

What are the benefits of concrete staining?

  • Staining a concrete slab is one of the best ways to add color and character to a plain surface. The design concepts can range from one single bold color to patterns of different colors, whichever makes you happy.
  • It is a decorative way of disguising blemishes on a concrete surface, such as stubborn stains and discolored concrete.
  • A great way to restore a plain concrete space. The colors penetrate deep so it would never flake or peel. It should be sealed, however, to maintain its color and the richness of it.
  • It can be used alongside other concrete solutions like stamping, engraving, and more.

Can homeowners stain their own concrete surfaces?

stained concrete mimamiThere are concrete staining kits available in local home improvement or DIY stores. However, it is not as easy as the package often says it is. Stains are quite messy to work with if you are not trained to do so. It stains easily and if you applied it heavily or lightly in specific areas, it will show. It is highly recommended to hire a professional who is trained to stain concrete surfaces.

Will the color change when it dries?

If you are using a concrete acid stain, it may create different tones of the color you have chosen. This is what creates the stone-like look on an acid-stained concrete surface. If you are using a water-based stain, test a color on an inconspicuous area to check if it will dry the same or if there will be changes. Each concrete slab is unique when it comes to porosity and absorption.

How much does stained concrete cost?

It is one of the most economical solutions for concrete surfaces. Although there is no fixed rate, the cost will be influenced by your location, the size of the job, the type of stain used, and custom designs you might request. It is best to consult a pro for a more accurate quote in your area.

Description:

Stained concrete is a popular decorative and restorative solution for new and old concrete surfaces. It disguises imperfections and makes any space, whether indoor or outdoor, stand out. It is important, however, to know the basics of concrete staining before you begin. You must know the benefits it provides, how it can be installed, if it can be done on your own, or if you need a pro to help you out. It is also important that you know how effective it is as a colored concrete option and how much it will cost to apply stains on your concrete surfaces.

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source https://www.miamiconcreteartisans.com/stained-concrete-faqs/

Thursday, 28 June 2018

3 Simple Maintenance Tips for Concrete Garage Flooring

Concrete is the most common material for garage flooring because it is easy to install and is quite affordable as compared to other flooring materials. Although less expensive, it is still crucial to keep it in good shape and make it last longer. Cleaning and maintenance is a responsibility that every homeowner should take seriously. There is nothing to worry about. With these simple tips, you should be able to do it.

Use a Push Broom

Dust accumulates on a garage floor the same way it would on any floor in the house. However, with a concrete garage surface, it is recommended to use a push broom. Choose one with bristles that are a bit stiff to help remove dust and other stubborn dirt.

 

Deal with Oil Spills Immediately

Oil stains are common on a concrete garage floor. If you find a spill or a mere drop, deal with it immediately. Oil has the tendency to seep into the concrete and create a stain. If, for example, you accidentally spill oil on the floor, lay down some newspapers or anything absorbent. Keep doing this until all oil on the surface is removed. If oil has seeped into the surface, there are three things you could put on it:

  • Kitty Litter
  • Baking Soda
  • Sawdust

All three are capable of absorbing oil on a concrete floor effectively. Just put enough to cover the spot, leave to soak for 20 minutes, and then sweep away with a push broom. Repeat this process until all the oil is gone.

Power Wash

garage flooringWashing a concrete garage floor is something you can do on a weekly or monthly basis, depending on your availability. You don’t have to use any special cleaning product. A mild dishwashing soap and water will do. Why dishwashing soap you say? Because it is designed to cut grease and it does not leave a thin cloudy film like most soaps do.

Cleaning and maintaining a concrete garage floor is not that difficult and will only take a little of your time. If you want something that is a lot easier to clean and maintain, and something that would cover up those dents and cracks as well, have an epoxy garage floor coating installed on your garage flooring. It is a seamless, non-absorbent coating that keeps dust and oil on the surface. It is also resistant to most types of damage. Consult a garage flooring expert to know your options.

The post 3 Simple Maintenance Tips for Concrete Garage Flooring appeared first on Miami Concrete Artisans.



source https://www.miamiconcreteartisans.com/garage-flooring-maintenance-tips/

Tuesday, 17 April 2018

How to Install a Beautiful Metallic Epoxy Flooring

epoxy flooring miamiMetallic epoxy flooring is a beautiful choice for any room floor. Although epoxy is a favorite for garage floors, you can basically use it on any floor. And it will give you amazing color and design options that you probably haven’t seen before.

A metallic epoxy flooring is just epoxy with a metallic pigment added to it. These pigments look like tiny glitters but when mixed with epoxy they create a special effect by reflecting light at different angles. These pigments are framed into the epoxy as it hardens and give an exotic 3D look, the kind that can make your friends or visitors jealous.

The cheapest way to install an epoxy flooring is to do it yourself. If you’re a DIY person, epoxy flooring installation is always a fun and exciting project.

Of course, it’s not gonna be as easy as how professionals seem to do it, as they already have years of experience. But all it takes is a little patience and a lust for nice, and professional floors in your home. You’re probably thinking of how critical epoxy is when it comes to timing, as the chemical hardens at a specific duration. But you’ll be surprised. It’s not as hard as you think it is. And and it could be a fun little experience.

You’ll need:

  • Working clothes
  • Mask
  • Power mixer
  • Big & small squeegees
  • Big & small roller and tray
  • Extension poles for rollers
  • Some garbage bags
  • Some five-gallon buckets
  • Spiked shoes

Here are the basic steps on how to install metallic epoxy flooring:

1. Clean the floor and make sure no dirt or dust is on the surface.

2. Prepare a nice mixing station that serves as your path out from the room surface your applying epoxy to. Cover its floor to protect it from epoxy when you walk out.

3. Mix pigment and primer in a bucket using power mixer. Mix 1 to 2 mins. Get as much as you can out, use tools like sticks to scrape. Primers are easy to install. They give you a lot of working time and they cover the surface amazingly. No pressure.

4. Wrap roller tray in black a garbage bag to protect when cleaning once you’re done.

5. Pour mixed primer on the garbage bag-wrapped tray.

6. Start with the room edges first. With a sweeping motion cover the edges of the 4 sides of the room generously using the small roller.

7. After you’re done with the edges you can start covering the whole floor. You wanna start at the part of the room away from the exit. Then work your way to the exit.

8. With the same sweeping motion cover the floor back and forth, start from the middle and apply from side to side, parallel to the wall. Use the length of your big roller as your measuring line, one line at a time. Apply thinly and go over to cover the floor entirely, working your way to the exit.

9. Now mix the metallic pigments with the part A epoxy on a bucket us, about 16 oz. jar of metallic pigments to every 3 gallon part A buckets. No pressure in mixing these parts as there’s no hardener yet. You can premix it whenever you like and then add the hardener once ready to apply.

10. Mix the hardener with premixed part A and metallic pigments using a power mixer for about 2 minutes. After mixing, make sure that you dump the content into a clean bucket to make sure everything mixes all the way. Scrape the sides to get as much as you can. Power mix again for 30 seconds to a minute on the fresh bucket. Do not forget to dump into a fresh bucket before applying to the floor as you do not want any soft spots.

11. Now you’re ready to dump the epoxy on the floor. Again, start farthest from your exit. Distribute the epoxy in a snake-like pattern following the one you did with the primer, wall to wall.

12. After that, use your squeegee to roll out the epoxy evenly, using the same pattern. Now this part is up to you. You can spread it in any direction based how you want the design to look like. Don’t worry if you can see through the floor. The epoxy will still need to settle, so just try your best to make it as nice and smooth as you can. Try to spread thick piles evenly.

13. After that use the big roller to flatten and smoothen the epoxy layer.

14. Once you’re done, let the epoxy settle and cure for a day. Next day, you can apply a clear top coat. First, sand down any irregularities or unevenness that you find. As with the primer, do the edges first, then work your way to the exit. You don’t have to hurry, you have a lot of working time with the top coat. Make it nice and smooth. The topcoat will give a super high marble-like gloss to the epoxy in about 2 hours.

And there you go. You have a very nice metallic epoxy floor that will last for years. If you’re still hesitant to DIY, maybe a little help from the pros can give you confidence. Professional installation is cheap. The pros can recommend the best materials you can use. By watching them work, you realize that it isn’t as hard as you thought, then you can start making little projects of your own.

The post How to Install a Beautiful Metallic Epoxy Flooring appeared first on Miami Concrete Artisans.



source https://www.miamiconcreteartisans.com/metallic-epoxy-flooring-installation/

Sunday, 18 March 2018

5 Benches that Would Look Great on a Concrete Patio

A concrete patio may not be as expensive, but it can look just as good as a brick, stone, or wooden patio. One factor that contributes to the overall aesthetics is the type of furniture you use. A bench is one of the most common outdoor furniture that homeowners use. It is important to choose a type that complements the concrete patio. It should be appealing, comfortable, and durable to withstand outdoor elements. Here are some cool ideas:

Built-in Concrete Patio Bench

concrete patio miamiIf you are confident that you won’t want to rearrange the furniture in the patio, stationary seats would be a good idea. Some patios already have built-in benches made of concrete. The great thing about this is that it can be immediately installed along with the patio. Plus, concrete is a durable material perfect for outdoor use. You can even build a fire pit to go with it.

Wooden Bench

wooden patio benchWood is a traditional material that has always been popular both for indoor and outdoor use. As long as it is sealed properly, wooden benches could withstand outdoor elements just fine. One popular trend is using raw wood, like straight from the tree, and making a bench out of it. Sitting on a natural wood bench would surely make you feel closer to nature.

Mosaic Bench

mosaic concrete patio benchIf you are feeling artsy, why not make a mosaic bench? Just gather old and broken vases, cups, and plates. Using a tile clipper, you can cut them into workable pieces and just express yourself through patterns. This is a cool idea if you are tired of plain concrete benches and need something creative to breathe new life into it. Mosaic benches are also great conversation pieces.

Swing Bench

patioWho doesn’t love a swing bench? Having one hanging on a concrete patio will definitely be a treat! Just make sure that the bench is hanging securely from the roof or eave, wherever it can be hung. Before enjoyment and aesthetics, safety must always come first.

Cinder Block Bench

concrete patio benchA DIY cinder block bench is one of the trends in concrete patios nowadays. By strategically arranging cinder blocks and inserting thick wooden pieces in the holes, you can create benches, tables, and even outdoor chaises for the patio. Just make sure that you use high-quality cinder blocks and treated wood to make it more durable and long-lasting.

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source https://www.miamiconcreteartisans.com/great-concrete-patio-benches/

Prioritizing Child-Safety with Pool Deck Resurfacing

Having your own swimming pool at home is great for endless hours of entertainment for the whole family. But without the proper safety m...