STAMPED OR ENGRAVED CONCRETE?

If you’re looking at concrete restoration for your Orlando home, there are several options. You may have heard of concrete stamping or concrete engraving, but aren’t sure what the difference is.Concrete stamping is when a rubber stamp is placed over fresh concrete, leaving an imprinted design or pattern after it dries. This is a great option for new concrete surfaces, but there’s also the option of a stamped overlay, where a thin layer of concrete is poured over the surface and stamped.

If you’re looking at resurfacing of existing concrete surfaces, engraving can be a cheaper alternative to stamped overlays. This method is achieved by engraving a pattern or design into the concrete. While most people prefer stamped concrete, engraving has its benefits. For instance, there are many design and pattern options, and the result can be slightly smoother than stamping.

If you decide to go with concrete engraving, also consider acid staining, which is he process of adding a chemical mixture to your concrete surface. When the mixture is added to the concrete, a chemical reaction occurs, leaving a beautiful marbled pattern. The colouring of acid staining may vary slightly from surface to surface, creating a unique look.
The decision between stamping and engraving is a personal one. If you’re still not sure which option is best suited to you, it’s best to call in the pros. Speak to a decorative concrete contractor, and they’ll be able to give you the best advice on concrete restoration and resurfacing.

Controlling Your Concrete

The best look for your home’s exterior could mean decorative concreteresurfacing in the backyard. Many homeowners utilize a concrete overlay and stamped concreteto create decorative paths along their gardens or throughout their backyard. Decorative concrete resurfacing can be used to surround a perimeter of a back or front yard. There are many ways to keep concrete staining clean and prepared, though one of those includes managing the area surrounding it. By keeping the concrete clean as well as the landscape which surrounds it, you increase your curb appeal and the value of your home. There are no better ways to do this than with natural pest control.

For natural pest control that alleviates cockroaches, you can safely sprinkle diatomaceous earth where they congregate. The particles in diatomaceous earth will cut through the waxy exoskeleton and within forty-eight hours kill the cockroaches. About a week after this has been done, the insects will be dehydrated and search for another location. This natural pest control is harmless to people can be done inside behind cabinets or kitchen appliances. Catnip effectively repels cockroaches. There is an active ingredient in catnip called nepetalactone which is not toxic but will repel cockroaches. Do not use this method if you have cats in your home. If the need for natural pest control is on your pool deck, then place sliced gloves of garlic in the cracks, but if the need is all over your yard, you can place diatomaceous earth where they congregate. Commercial natural pest control products are available with a clove-base.