When you think of concrete, you picture “sidewalks.” You don’t picture the hardscaping around your house. But you might be surprised to find out that concrete can be a beautiful addition to a home, whether you want a backyard patio, a garden walkway or a front parking pad.
Find out exactly why you should consider concrete for your next home improvement.
Concrete Is Durable
Concrete is famous for its durability and resilience. It can handle a lot of foot traffic without suffering from wear and tear. This is what makes it such a popular choice for sidewalks and public walkways. Thousands can walk across it all day long, and the material will remain in top condition.
Concrete also fares well in different weather conditions. It can withstand extreme temperatures, like scorching summer heat waves and freezing cold snaps, without deteriorating.
If you want to upgrade your home’s exterior walkways, steps, driveways and patios, you should think about using concrete. Concrete surfaces will handle heavy foot traffic and heavy objects (like vehicles) without trouble, and they can handle the highs and lows of Canadian weather.
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Concrete Is Winter-Safe
One practical feature that Canadian homeowners can appreciate about concrete surfaces is reduced slipperiness in the winter months. Non-slip additives can be used in concrete sealers. This feature makes concrete surfaces safer during the winter months when ice and snow can make walking outside hazardous. You can minimize your risk of fall injuries during this time of year.
Having a winter-safe surface means that you won’t have to be as reliant on de-icers. While de-icers can keep slick ice at bay, they are not kind to various parts of your home’s exterior. They can damage your wooden decks and plants — they can even wreck your outdoor does.
If you insist on using a de-icer for extra safety, you should use a calcium-based one and use it sparingly. This should preserve the elements of your home’s exterior, including concrete. The wrong de-icer can stain your concrete over time.
Concrete Is Attractive
You’re not entirely sold on the idea of concrete for your home’s hardscaping. You’re afraid it would look plain or downright unattractive. Why would you want your back patio to look like a sidewalk?
Don’t worry. Professional concrete contractors like Elite Concrete know how to create concrete surfaces that are absolutely stunning. You would never call them plain or unattractive. Depending on the concrete finish you choose, you can enhance your home’s curb appeal and show off your personal style.
If you prefer a sleek, modern aesthetic, you should get limestone-finished concrete. The premium finish mimics the look of limestone. Imagine a pristine patio made entirely out of a slab of “limestone.” It will be the perfect spot to host summer dinner parties or lounge out on a deck chair, soaking in the sunshine.
If you prefer a more rustic look, an exposed aggregate concrete finish could be the right pick. This finish is more rustic and textured, showcasing the natural stones embedded in the concrete.
Exposed aggregate concrete is an excellent alternative to using pebbles and natural stones for exterior pathways and surfaces. While pebbles and stones match the rustic aesthetic, they are not durable or low-maintenance surface options. They cannot handle high foot traffic without dispersal, and the areas will need regular cleaning and weeding to prevent overgrowth from affecting the pathway.
Concrete is the right material for your home upgrade. It’s durable, safe and practical — and it looks fantastic, too.
