Like most other things that revolve around residential living and design, swimming pools can become outdated. Back in the 80s it was common to see kidney-shaped pools with that traditional sand-colored slip-proof concrete surround. While it was a practical option at the time, today’s standards, predicated by the outdoor living trend that’s sweeping the nation, make this concrete option obsolete. Yet there are thousands of pools that still utilize this original material.
When buying a home with a pool complete with an ugly concrete surround, one can add value to their property, enhance its aesthetic appeal, and create a luxurious space for hosting decades of fun with friends and family by simply implementing a decorative concrete design. This is why savvy homebuyers call a pool company offering decorative concrete designs to modernize their outdoor space with an expression that showcases their artistic tastes.
What Exactly is Decorative Concrete?
Decorative concrete is a complete departure from the everyday materials we see on buildings, freeways and sidewalks. Instead, this concrete has an added special touch that impacts its texture, color, and pattern. Many people invest in decorative concrete for their pool surround and outdoor kitchen because the material can, with the right treatment, easily resemble high-end stone, brick or tiles without the expensive price tag. Furthermore, the material is durable, easy to care for, and offers endless design options.
The key is to work closely with a company that specializes in decorative concrete to ensure you utilize a type and style that will stay true to fashion, compliment your home and landscape, and that offers a safe surface for friends and family.
Stamped Decorative Concrete
Stamped concrete is created to resemble stone, slate, brick, cobblestone and an array of other materials. There are also advanced options to simulate nature such as a look of sandstone baring fossils and shells. This option involves taking concrete in its plastic state and pressing molds into the material to create the desired look. Color, through various methods, can also be introduced, as can a number of techniques to create a more high-end personalized look to the space.
Pros and Cons of Stamped Decorative Concrete
The only downside to stamped decorative concrete is that, over time, any added color can fade and will require some restoration. However, the restoration work is not at all complex and can usually be performed by the company that designed and installed it.
On the flip side, stamped decorative concrete has far more benefits. It can offer a variety of textures, including slip-proofing to help protect children and the elderly from falling on slick, wet surfaces. It can also offer durable design that would otherwise run a high risk of succumbing to the elements if in fact it were embossed and accessible to chipping and cracking more easily. Ultimately, most custom designs are possible to create using this option, it is a cost-effective way to lend a luxurious look, and it is safe and easy to maintain.
Call a decorative concrete pool specialist today and learn about all the customizations an expert can offer to make your property pop in style.