Cement masons expose aggregate to create decorative effects on a variety of concrete surfaces, including walls, driveways and walkways. The concept is simple: after pouring the concrete, cement masons remove some portion of the surface mortar to reveal the underlying aggregate. The amount of mortar removed and the amount of aggregate that is exposed will vary with the specifications and the […]
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Both scoring and sawcutting can be used to create decorative effects that add depth and texture to concrete surfaces such as floors, patios and driveways. On hardened concrete, cement masons can sawcut lines that are straight, diagonal or circular. Often these designs created by sawcutting are then stained with a variety of colors or etched
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Concrete is a versatile material that can be used in many different applications. However, in its natural gray state, concrete can appear plain. Fortunately, the versatility of concrete also allows the use of aggregates, tools, and additives to change the color and texture of the finished surface. Two methods that are especially effective in changing
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Chemical staining is one method available for cement masons to demonstrate the creative effects used in the field of decorative concrete. Cement masons can create impressive artistic effects for a variety of purposes. Staining can turn ordinary concrete slabs into floors that resemble marble or glazed stone. Cement masons are also using staining to create
Abrasive blasting is the process of ejecting a stream of abrasive particles from a blast machine using compressed air propelled at high speeds. Abrasive blasting is used for the cleaning, surfacepreparation and finishing of concrete surfaces. As a finishing technique, abrasive blasting can produce pleasing, decorative effects, enhancing the visual features of the sandblasted surface. Blasting can
