Unusual uses for concrete at home

Concrete has been used for foundation and construction for centuries, however, it’s now entered a new age! Formerly unpopular due to its somewhat dull and cold appearance, the material is now loved for its versatility. So, if you are still thinking “pavement” and “garage floor” when someone mentions “concrete”, you are in for a treat. With endless designs and colours available, it will make for striking additions to your home.

Why choose concrete?

Far from its usual use for garage and driveway flooring, concrete has recently been brought inside the home under many different shapes. Favoured for its urban, industrial style, it is used to make accessories and furniture. But why choose concrete over other materials such as wood, for example? While high-maintenance wooden furniture is now considered as vintage and sometimes even outdated, the sleek aspect of concrete makes for simple, but beautiful and modern furniture. But the material is not only preferred to its rustic counterpart for its appearance. Unlike wood, concrete is particularly cheap and it does not rot or burn. Another great reason to choose this material is that it is sustainable. Usually made with limestone, one of the most abundant materials on the planet, concrete can also be made with waste by-products such as: fly ash used in power plants. Not only that, concrete is used to recycle by-products and is also recyclable. Once it has served its primary purpose, it can be crushed to make a new batch of concrete that can be used to make pavements and roads. So, no more excuses not to let concrete into your house!

Concrete inside the house

From small accessories to countertops, concrete will add texture to your space. The material’s adaptability makes for endless possibilities, and will integrate perfectly in your existing designs, whether they are modern or rustic.

• Countertops and tabletops

Heat resistant and durable, concrete is an excellent option for your countertops. Whatever the size and style of your counters, it can be moulded, designed and coloured to any shape and style to fit your kitchen or bathroom perfectly. With the right sealer, your countertops will be stainless – liquids will bead at the surface to make your kitchen super easy to clean. Functional and extremely versatile, you can also consider concrete for a new kitchen island or tabletop that will last a lifetime.

• Accessories

Small concrete accessories can be a nice, original touch to a room. Hooks, door knobs, lamps, candle holders… The options are limitless!

• Walls

For the ultimate industrial look, add a coat of concrete to your walls – you can choose to have it bare or coloured for a warmer finish. Decorative concrete tiles, with many colours and patterns are also an option for a more decisive look.

• Stairs

Consider concrete for your open staircase! Whether concrete matches your actual decor or offers a beautiful contrast to it, concrete stair treads will be a stunning addition. Concrete will offer a better resistance to foot traffic and longer lasting.

Concrete in the garden

Totally weather-resistant, sealed concrete is a favourite for outdoor furniture. Its colour won’t fade, and you won’t have to move the furniture every time it rains for fear of water damage. With its many advantages against wood, concrete can also become a new permanent home for your flowers and shrubs. If you or your children are feeling inspired, you can use chalk to decorate your concrete “work of arts” and then use a sealer so it doesn’t wash off.

No matter how unusual your ideas for your home are, concrete can bring them to life. Whether you are looking for an original addition to your décor, or you want to achieve a total industrial look, concrete is the answer. Cost-effective, low maintenance and extremely versatile, your imagination is the only limit.

If however, you need some concrete resurfacing done at your property – driveway, pool surrounds, pathway, staircase, whatever it may be, contact the concrete resurfacing experts at The Coating Company on 0499 852 473 for a FREE quote.