How to Maintain Your Garage Floor

Welcome to our blog on how to maintain your garage floor, an often overlooked but essential aspect of home maintenance. A well-maintained garage floor not only enhances the appearance of your space but also ensures safety and longevity. With a few simple steps, you can keep your garage floor looking pristine for years to come. 

Maintaining your garage floor is an often overlooked task but is essential to keeping your home in top shape. Think about it—your garage floor sees a lot of traffic (foot or otherwise), can see some elemental wear, and requires upkeep just like any other part of your house. 

Follow our simple steps to keep your garage floor pristine for years to come, including garage floor repair instructions and concrete maintenance tips:

1. Immediately Clean Up Spills

2. Sweep Your Floors

3. Pressure Wash

4. Apply Concrete Sealers or Floor Coating

5. Repair Cracks and Damages to the Floor

If you are looking to resurface your garage floor instead, read our tips on how to DIY! 

1. Immediately Clean Up Spills

One of the fundamental rules in maintaining a garage floor is to clean up spills as soon as they occur. Whether it's oil, grease, chemicals, or any other liquids, they can quickly penetrate the porous concrete surface and cause stubborn stains. The longer you leave spills untreated, the more difficult they become to remove.

To tackle spills effectively:

• Keep absorbent materials like kitty litter, sawdust, or oil-dry on hand. When an oil spill occurs, spread it over the affected area to soak up the liquid. Once absorbed, sweep the material and dispose of it properly.

• Use concrete-specific detergent or degreaser to tackle tough stains. Simply follow the manufacturer's instructions, and be sure to rinse the area thoroughly with water after cleaning.

2. Sweep Your Floors

How do you take care of a concrete garage floor? You sweep it at least once per week to remove any dust, dirt, and debris! If you’re not careful, certain types of debris can scratch your concrete and eventually require garage floor repair.

We recommend using a stiff-bristled broom or a push broom designed for outdoor use to help dislodge any stubborn dirt. Sweeping is particularly important during the winter months when de-icing salt can wear down your garage floor. 

3. Pressure Wash

Cars and lawn equipment can leave unsightly oil and grease stains. But with power washing, homeowners can remove these stains from the garage floor, concrete driveway, and walkway. A pressure washer uses high-pressure water to blast away contaminants, leaving your floor looking fresh and rejuvenated. Concrete maintenance has never been easier!

Here's how to pressure wash your garage floor safely:

• Clean the area: Remove any items or vehicles from the garage and sweep the floor to eliminate loose debris.

• Select equipment: Rent or purchase a pressure washer suitable for cleaning concrete surfaces. (We recommend RYOBI pressure washers for their ease of use!) Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.

• Start at low-pressure: Be cautious with the pressure settings, as excessive force can damage the concrete. Start with a low-pressure setting and gradually increase if necessary.

• Work in areas: Clean in small sections, overlapping each pass to ensure even cleaning.

4. Apply Concrete Sealers or Floor Coating

Sealing or applying a floor coating is a proactive concrete maintenance measure to protect your garage floor from damage. Concrete is porous, and sealers or coatings act as a barrier, preventing moisture, chemical substances, and stains from penetrating the surface.

Here's how to apply concrete sealers or floor coating:

• Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the garage floor, removing all dust and stains.

• Select a sealer: Select a sealer or coating suitable for your specific garage floor. There are various options available, including acrylic sealers, epoxy coatings, and polyurethane coatings.

• Follow the directions: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application. Use rollers or brushes to ensure even coverage.

• Dry: Allow sufficient time for the sealer or coating to dry before using the garage.

Still asking yourself, “Is it a good idea to seal your garage floor?” Know that the answer is almost universally yes. Sealed concrete lasts longer than unsealed concrete and can better resist stains. You should always invest in protecting your investments.

5. Repair Cracks and Damage to the Floor

If you’re properly maintaining your concrete floor, chances are you won’t have to invest heavily in garage floor repair. However, life happens, and sometimes you’ll get a crack! Addressing cracks and damage promptly is crucial in maintaining the structural integrity and appearance of your garage floor. Small cracks can expand over time, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs.

To repair cracks and damage:

• Clean the area: Thoroughly clean the cracked or damaged area, removing any loose debris and dirt.

• Fill the cracks: Use a concrete patching compound to fill the cracks. Follow the product instructions for the best results.

• Smooth the surface: Smooth the repaired area with a trowel, ensuring it's level with the rest of the floor.

• Seal the repair: Consider applying a sealer over the repaired area to enhance its longevity.

Need Help with Garage Floor Maintenance or Upgrades?

By following these five essential steps, you can keep your garage floor in top condition, prolong its life, and maintain a clean and safe space for all your activities. Remember, regular maintenance not only saves you from costly repairs in the future but also preserves the overall value of your property. Happy garage floor maintenance!

If your garage floor is past the point of maintenance, it might be time to replace or repair your garage floor.

Contact our team today and we will provide a free estimate! 

Revive Your Pool Deck With Custom Concrete

If you find that you aren’t spending much time enjoying your pool, chances are your pool deck needs a serious refresh! Custom concrete is a popular medium to elevate pool decks because it offers a combination of design versatility, low maintenance, and cost efficiency. 

Our team of concrete resurfacing experts has compiled a definitive guide to reviving your in-ground or above-ground pool deck! We’ll cover:

• Stamped Concrete vs Pavers for Your Pool Deck

• Pool Deck Resurfacing

• How to Repair the Concrete Around Your Pool

• Concrete Pool Ideas

• Cost of Concrete Pools

Whether you’re looking for a concrete pool deck or want to refurbish an existing pool deck, contact B&W Custom Concrete for a consultation! 

Stamped Concrete vs Pavers for Your Pool Deck

Stamped concrete and pavers are both excellent choices for a pool deck—and their trade-offs make them comparable when it comes to material costs, performance, and longevity.

STAMPED CONCRETE PROS: 

• Flexible Design – Stamped concrete comes in a wide variety of patterns, allowing you to mimic natural materials such as brick, cobblestone, and even wood. You can also introduce bold, sophisticated colors through stained concrete finishes.

• More Affordable – High-quality stamped concrete tends to be cheaper than natural stone pavers. Stone pavers need to be quarried, which drives up the price.

• Easy to Install – Unlike pavers, which require an involved installation process, stamped concrete can be done quickly by pouring the material and then applying the pattern.

• Easy to Maintain – You’ll need to regularly clean and seal your concrete to protect your pool deck. This makes stamped concrete a good choice around pools. Maintaining pavers is more complex because you have to replace the joint sand routinely. Natural stone can also be suspect to pool water damage if not properly sealed.

• Slip-Resistant – When sealing stamped concrete, we add anti-skid agents to ensure that it too slipper around the pool. Safety is a top priority for pool deck construction.

Natural stone pavers have high up-front costs due to material sourcing, installation, and complex routine upkeep. However, they’re unmatched in longevity and can be easily repaired by swapping out cracked pavers.  Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference and maintenance commitment level.

Pool Deck Resurfacing

Pool deck resurfacing involves pouring a new concrete overlay on top of an existing pool deck. This is an affordable approach to updating your pool deck’s look and feel by changing the overlay’s color, pattern, and finish. 

Depending on your deck’s age, material, and condition, concrete resurfacing can also help reinforce and cover minor cracks or spalling (surface deterioration) in your pool deck. The new overlay uses the most up-to-date concrete techniques available to extend your deck’s lifespan. 

It’s important to note that concrete resurfacing is not the same as concrete pool deck repair. An extensively damaged deck caused by ground erosion beneath the concrete will require a professional to assess.

How to Repair the Concrete Around Your Pool

• Prepare & Repair Cracks – For small cracks, you can use a concrete patching compound or crack filler designed for use on horizontal surfaces. Clean out the crack, removing any loose material, and follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply. For larger or structural cracks, you should consult a professional.

• Clean & Prime – Thoroughly clean the pool deck to remove dirt, debris, and any loose or deteriorated material. Use a pressure washer or scrub brush along with a mild detergent or concrete cleaner. Rinse the area well and apply primer as needed. Allow the deck to dry completely before proceeding.

• Mix Overlay Product – Use a commercial concrete resurfacing product. Mix the product according to the manufacturer’s instructions and add in your coloring agents.

• Apply Overlay – Apply the product following manufacturer instructions. Different methods like spraying, rolling, and troweling will give you different final products. Once you’ve applied the overlay and checked its leveling, you may add patterns to the concrete before it cures.

• Cure & Seal – Allow your overlay to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, apply a concrete sealer suitable for outdoor use. Look for a product that also offers anti-skidding to prevent slippery surfaces when wet.

While it’s possible to DIY a concrete resurfacing project, accurately assessing your pool deck’s damage and applying the appropriate solution requires experience. It’s best to consult a professional when in doubt.

Concrete Pool Ideas 

A concrete pool deck offers flexible design options. We’ve talked about how stamped concrete can update your patio, and the same design techniques apply. 

Alternate between areas of plain and patterned or colored concrete to create visual contrast. Pick colors that stay cool in the summer heat and complement your environment. Mix organic shapes with sharp lines to define focal points.

If you’d like to make a real statement with your renovation, consider installing an above ground pool deck. The height gives a flare of drama, and swimmers will enjoy their elevated viewpoint! Architectural Digest also offers several clever ways to incorporate concrete into your backyard decor.

Need more inspiration? Check out these Instagram-worthy concrete pool decks!

Cost of Concrete Pools 

So, how much does stamped concrete cost around a pool? On average, the cost of stamped concrete is about $8–$18 per square foot. However, the final price varies depending on several factors, including:

• Pool deck foundation assessment

• Services (e.g., concrete resurfacing vs building from scratch)

• Colors and textures

• Design complexity

• Types of sealants and finishers

Transform Your Pool Deck with Custom Concrete 

At the end of the day, concrete is a high-performing and cost-effective option for pool decks. Stamped concrete is a good investment for homeowners that want to update their property’s look and feel without committing to extensive maintenance regimens. 

Customizable designs, concrete resurfacing options, and easy resealing every few years will keep your deck in top shape for decades to come.

Ready to take your pool deck to the next level? Build your custom concrete pool deck with B&W Custom Concrete. We offer free estimates!

How Stamped Concrete Can Transform Your Patio

At the height of summer, sometimes all you want to do is get in the pool, start up the grill, and invite some friends over to hang out on the patio. If you’re going to spend so much time out there, you should invest the time to kick it up a notch! 

A stamped concrete patio is a great way to customize your backyard without breaking the bank. There are tons of high-end custom patio designs to choose from—all easy to clean and maintain! Read on to learn why stamped concrete is a popular choice for homeowners.

• What Is Stamped Concrete?
• The Pros of Stamped Concrete Patios
• Stamped Concrete Patio Ideas
• How Much Does a Stamped Concrete Patio Cost?
• Ready for an Estimate?

Are you ready to transform your patio? Contact B&W Custom Concrete for a free estimate on your next project!

What Is Stamped Concrete?

Stamped concrete is created by imprinting specific patterns onto wet concrete, allowing the mixture to maintain the design as it cures. The most in-demand designs include:

• Natural stone
• Cobblestone
• Brick
• Slate
• Wood

Stamped concrete is compatible with other finishing techniques such as acid staining, aggregate exposure, and sealing.

The Pros of Stamped Concrete Patios

Stamped concrete patios share all the benefits of a standard concrete patio—but with more style! Installing a stamped concrete patio can help boost your home value by upwards of 15% thanks to its luxurious look and overall aesthetic appeal.

In a nutshell, stained concrete is:

• Durable
• Easy to clean
• Low-maintenance
• Economical
• Highly-customizable
• Aesthetically-pleasing

Stamped concrete can be a clear investment with strong returns if well-maintained. Leverage our concrete experts to bring your vision to life! 

Stamped Concrete Patio Ideas

Mixing stamped concrete with different techniques can yield a fantastic custom patio design. Of course, you can always enhance your patio by furnishing it with plants, furniture, and lights. But focusing on the concrete will give you a beautiful foundation to start.

• Add an acid stain – Combining an acid stain with a pattern will let you mimic most building materials. If you’re more adventurous, go with a vibrant neutral tone that goes well with any decor.
  
  
• Use accent colors – There’s no reason to make your patio one color. Using an accent color as a border or focal point can give visual interest without being overwhelming.
  
  
• Mix textures – In the same vein, you can create a visual impact by accenting large, plain concrete areas with stamped concrete designs.
  
  
• Vary your shapes – Spice up your patio by contrasting straight lines with organic curves. This helps better define your space without seeming too cookie-cutter.

If you’re still unsure about what to do, explore Pinterest boards or design blogs that highlight creative stamped concrete looks. Your custom patio design is just a click away!

How Much Does a Stamped Concrete Patio Cost?

Using stamped concrete for a custom patio is one of the most economical ways to upscale your patio. Depending on your design and finishers, the average stamped concrete patio will cost about:

• $8–$19 per square foot
• $3,200–$7,600 for a 20’x20’ patio

The average homeowner will spend about $4,664 nationally, which factors in the cost of labor, project complexity, thickness, and sealant. 

Overall, stamped concrete costs fall below averages for brick ($14–$20 per square foot) and stone ($14–$28 per square foot). Factor in concrete’s longevity and customization, and you’ll find the returns well worth the investment! 

It goes without saying that it’s important to get an accurate estimate to gauge your budget for any project.

Ready for an Estimate?

Stamped concrete is one of the most popular methods for transforming a patio into a real hang-out spot. You can easily create a custom patio design by taking advantage of concrete’s versatile patterns and stains. Not to mention, the overall cost savings are a no-brainer thanks to concrete’s affordable price and durability.

Are you thinking about updating your patio and improving your home value? Reach out to B&W Custom Concrete to get a free estimate on your project!

Concrete vs. Asphalt: Which Is the Better Choice for Your Driveway?

Concrete and asphalt are two of the most popular materials used for driveways, and for good reason. Both are durable materials that work well in most environments. And each has clear benefits depending on your project needs.

In the concrete vs asphalt debate, we’re ultimately team concrete thanks to our team of exceptional concrete contractors in Buffalo, NY!

In our breakdown, we’ll cover: 

• The pros and cons of concrete vs asphalt
• Is it cheaper to use asphalt or concrete?
• Popular Buffalo, NY concrete driveway designs
• Which is easier to maintain, concrete or asphalt?
• Concrete in Buffalo, NY’s cold weather
• Why you should install a concrete driveway

Ready to seal the deal (no pun intended) with a concrete driveway? Get a free quote from a B&W Custom Concrete rep!

The Pros and Cons of Concrete vs Asphalt

When it comes to installing a concrete driveway, the pros generally outweigh the cons. The TLDR version is that concrete is a high-quality material that comes in a variety of design choices. It doesn’t require much hands-on maintenance and tends to last longer than asphalt.

Concrete Pros: 

• Is long-lasting and durable compared to other materials
• Easy to maintain
• Stays cool in hot weather due to its lighter color
• Comes in attractive tints and patterns

Concrete Cons: 

• May stain over time because of its lighter color
• Is more expensive than asphalt
• Will need to be replaced if damaged

Asphalt on the other hand, tends to be cheaper and can be installed quicker thanks to its ease of use. You’ll need to invest in regular preventative maintenance to maintain your driveway. Cracks may appear more frequently with asphalt since it is a softer material, though it’s easier to repair or apply a top coat.

Is it Cheaper to Use Asphalt or Concrete?

In general, asphalt is cheaper to install than concrete, but you may need to spend more over time on maintenance. 

Home Advisor estimates asphalt installation costs to be 50% less than concrete driveways of similar size. As of 2023, the average cost of a concrete driveway installation in Buffalo, NY is $5.03 per square foot. Compare that to an asphalt driveway, which is about $3.21 per square foot and requires sealing (an additional $0.32 per square foot).

Concrete driveway installation costs will increase if you choose additional design finishers such as concrete staining, tinting, or polishing.

Having said that, it’s important to consider both your initial budget as well as the time and expense required for driveway maintenance. 

Concrete’s durability means you won’t incur maintenance costs associated with asphalt, which can save you money over time. However, to ensure that asphalt is cost-effective, you’ll need to invest in regular upkeep. 

Popular Buffalo, NY Concrete Driveway Designs

One of the main benefits of choosing a concrete driveway is the variety of designs and finishes available!

Stained concrete floors are a popular choice for homes—acid stains are chemically reactive, which causes a permanent change in a rich palette of colors. You can marble the color by unevenly distributing the cement as you finish it to give a high-end, organic feel.

Prefer to keep it classic but with a twist? B&W Custom Concrete offers patterns to give character to your driveway while keeping that signature gray tone. The lighter color compliments a variety of styles well, making it a versatile choice.

In contrast, asphalt comes in a limited range of darker colors and stamped designs due to its base material. Concrete is ultimately the best choice for customizability, while asphalt offers a standard look.

Which Is Easier to Maintain, Concrete or Asphalt?

Concrete is ideal for homeowners who prefer not to actively maintain their driveways. Once finished and sealed, concrete doesn’t need to be maintained beyond occasional cleaning. Just remember to use sand instead of salt on the first winter after you install your driveway.

Concrete driveways can last upwards of 30–40 years under normal conditions thanks to its durable material. Any blemishes tend to be artificial, which is to say it won’t affect performance. To keep your driveway clean, avoid using fertilizer on the concrete or dripping oil as they can cause stains.

If you go with asphalt, you can expect a lifespan of 20–30 years, though you’ll need to reseal your driveway every 3–5 years to maintain it. This can start to add up if you hire a professional. 

An unkempt asphalt driveway may also need regular repairs since asphalt tends to deteriorate faster than concrete. You can easily repair cracks, though it’s best to take preventative measures or go with a more durable material.

Concrete in Buffalo, NY’s Cold Weather

Concrete can be affected by extreme cold, causing it to deteriorate as the material expands and contracts. That’s why B&W Custom Concrete only uses the highest-quality concrete at maximum standards to mitigate extreme climate effects.

Our 4,000 psi concrete driveways are 4” thick with a 10 gauge wire mesh. We also spray, cure, and seal your driveway to protect your investment, ensuring longevity through many upcoming winters.

With concrete contractors in Buffalo, NY, you’re guaranteed a team that understands the environment’s specific challenges and solutions!

Asphalt will also do well in Buffalo’s cold winters but will heat up considerably during hot summer months. Ultimately, you may find that other factors around design, performance, and maintenance will outweigh asphalt’s cold tolerance.

Why You Should Install a Concrete Driveway

When it comes to durability, performance, and design, concrete takes the win. Concrete driveways are endlessly customizable and can add a lot of personality to your home. Not to mention, staining and patterns can shift your property’s look between upscale and modern to timeless and classic.

Concrete is more expensive than asphalt, but the upfront investment goes into 30–40 years of low-maintenance performance. Our concrete driveways in Buffalo, NY are designed to withstand extreme winters, too.

If you’re a homeowner who wants an aesthetic, long-lasting driveway that doesn’t require diligent, hands-on maintenance, concrete is the way to go! 

Looking for concrete contractors in Buffalo, NY? Chat with a B&W Custom Concrete rep to get a quote!

Why You Should Consider Stained Concrete Floors for Your Home

Stained concrete is an excellent option for those looking to elevate their space without breaking the bank. Not only is concrete durable, but it adapts well to various toppers and environments when treated properly. It’s functional and aesthetic, making it the best of both worlds!

Our B&W team of concrete professionals have listed the benefits of stained concrete floors to help you consider alternate flooring options. Some benefits include: 

• Stained Concrete Floors Come in Beautiful Designs

• Stained Concrete Is Economical

• Combining Finishes Can Make Concrete Floors Durable and Low-Maintenance

Read on to find a floor design that meets your concrete needs!

Stained Concrete Floors Come in Beautiful Designs

Whether you prefer a natural look or a patterned design, stained concrete is a sure-fire way to enhance your home decor. Some options include:

• Integral concrete color – This refers to pigments added during the mixing process

• Stains – A unique look with a translucent finish

• Dyes – These tend to be more vibrant

Stained concrete floors work well with design styles that embrace industrial or outdoor aesthetics. Concrete brings an undeniably edgy texture, which can enhance more minimalistic spaces. 

Recently, interior designers have started to use stained concrete floors in warm ways, combining natural patterns with neutral tones to bring visual harmony.

Try playing around with contrasting or complementary stained concrete designs when planning out your space.

Stained Concrete Is Economical

By going with stained concrete floors, you’re making the most of what you already have!

You can minimize your costs by opting for stained concrete rather than covering up your underlying concrete slab with laminate flooring, hardwood, or carpet.

It’s important to note that you’ll need to properly top your stained concrete floor to preserve its longevity. But this option is still cost-effective when compared to other flooring styles.

Combining Finishes Can Make Concrete Floors Durable and Low-Maintenance

Staining concrete does not improve its performance, so using the right toppers to finish your floors is critical. This is especially true if using concrete floors for high-traffic areas.

Polishing concrete will give it a glossy, durable top, while a clear urethane coating will help protect from spills and abrasions. Decorative epoxy is also an excellent option to protect the concrete from moisture.

Properly finished stained concrete floors are easy to maintain thanks to their resistance to mold, mildew, and moisture.

Clean interior stained concrete floors with a dry dust mop and occasionally with a wet mop (using a pH-neutral cleaner). Outdoor floors benefit from sweeping or a hose for more persistent dirt.

Consider Stained Concrete Floors for Your Home

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to upgrade your home decor, then you should explore stained concrete floor designs to meet your needs.

Stained concrete floors in homes are functional yet elegant statements. Their natural pattern adapts well to many aesthetic styles, and their durability and low-maintenance make them a dream to care for.

For outdoor needs, concrete is a practical option for walkways, fire pits, patios, and swimming pools.

Curious about stained concrete floors for your home? Talk to a B&W specialist to explore your options!

DIY Concrete Projects: Creative Ideas and Tips to Get You Started

DIY Concrete Projects: 5 Creative Ideas & Tips to Get You Started

Concrete is a versatile material that can add a unique touch to any space. Whether you're looking to create a statement piece of furniture, a stylish planter, or a personalized stepping stone, concrete is a great choice. At B&W Concrete, we will explore some creative DIY concrete project ideas and share tips on how to make them stand out. From choosing the right concrete mix to adding color and texture, we'll guide you through the process of creating beautiful and durable concrete projects. Are you ready to take your DIY skills to the next level? Read on to discover the possibilities of DIY concrete projects.

5 DIY Concrete Projects Ideas

Concrete Planters 

Make your own custom planters by pouring concrete into molds. You can create different shapes and sizes, and even add colors or patterns to personalize them. To make a concrete planter, you'll need to mix concrete with water and pour it into a mold. You can use plastic containers, bowls, or other shapes as molds. Once the concrete has set, you can remove the mold and sand any rough edges. You can also add drainage holes by drilling them into the bottom of the planter. Concrete planters are a great way to add a modern touch to your home decor.

Concrete Furniture

Create a statement piece for your home by making your own concrete table or bench. You can use different molds and add textures or designs to make it truly one-of-a-kind. To make a concrete table or bench, you'll need to create a mold of the desired shape and size. You can use wood, plastic, or metal to create the mold. Then, mix the concrete with water and pour it into the mold. You can add color or texture to the concrete by using dye, paint, or other materials. Once the concrete has set, you can remove the mold and sand any rough edges. Concrete furniture is a durable and stylish addition to any home.

Concrete Stepping Stones

Add a personal touch to your garden by creating your own concrete stepping stones. You can customize the shape and size, and even add mosaic tiles or other decorations. To make concrete stepping stones, you'll need to create a mold of the desired shape and size. You can use plastic containers, cardboard, or other materials to create the mold. Then, mix the concrete with water and pour it into the mold. You can add color or texture to the concrete by using dye, paint, or other materials. Once the concrete has set, you can remove the mold and add any decorations, such as mosaic tiles. Concrete stepping stones are a great way to add a personalized touch to your garden.

Concrete Bookends 

Make your bookshelves stand out with DIY concrete bookends. You can use different molds and add color to match your home decor. To make concrete bookends, you'll need to create a mold of the desired shape and size. You can use wood, plastic, or other materials to create the mold. Then, mix the concrete with water and pour it into the mold. You can add color or texture to the concrete by using dye, paint, or other materials. Once the concrete has set, you can remove the mold and sand any rough edges. Concrete bookends are a simple and stylish addition to any bookshelf.

Concrete Candle Holders

Create a cozy atmosphere by making your own concrete candle holders. You can use different molds and add texture or color to match your personal style. To make concrete candle holders, you'll need to create a mold of the desired shape and size. You can use plastic containers, silicone molds, or other materials to create the mold. Then, mix the concrete with water and pour it into the mold. You can add texture or color to the concrete by using stamps or stencils. Once the concrete has set, you can remove the mold and add any decorations, such as paint or glitter. Concrete candle holders are a simple and elegant addition to any room.

5 Expert Tips for DIY Concrete Projects

Choose the Right Concrete Mix 

There are different types of concrete mixes available for different projects. Be sure to choose the right mix for your project to ensure it's strong and durable. For example, if you're making a concrete countertop, you'll need a mix that's specifically designed for that purpose.

Use a Mold Release Agent

To ensure your concrete project doesn't stick to the mold, be sure to use a mold release agent. You can use cooking spray, vegetable oil, or a specialized release agent. Applying the release agent before pouring the concrete into the mold will make it much easier to remove the mold once the concrete has set.

Add Color and Texture

You can personalize your DIY concrete projects by adding color and texture. There are different ways to do this, such as adding dye or paint to the mix, or using stamps or stencils to create patterns. Adding color and texture can make your project stand out and match your personal style.

Allow for Proper Curing Time

Be patient and allow for proper curing time before using or moving your concrete project. This will ensure it's strong and durable. Curing time can vary depending on the project, but a general rule of thumb is to wait at least 24-48 hours before removing the mold and handling the concrete.

Protect Yourself

When working with concrete, it's important to protect yourself. Wear gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask to avoid getting concrete on your skin or inhaling dust particles. Additionally, make sure you're working in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.

Summary

DIY concrete projects are a great way to personalize your home decor and add a unique touch to your outdoor space. With these creative ideas and tips, you can get started on your own DIY concrete projects today. Don't forget to choose the right concrete mix, use a mold release agent, and add color and texture to make your project truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you're making concrete planters, furniture, stepping stones, bookends, or candle holders, there are endless possibilities to explore with DIY concrete projects. 

Just remember to protect yourself and allow for proper curing time to ensure your project is strong and durable. Good luck!

Does Your Yard Need a Retaining Wall?

B & W Concrete Helps You Make That Decision

A retaining wall can take your landscaping from ho-hum to an eye-catching next level. However, the reason for building a retaining wall is for more than enhancing the beauty of your yard. You may actually need one for structural purposes. 

Here are some reasons your yard may need one.

Flat Land Is Not Needed To Grow Plants

If your house sits on any type of slope or multi-level land, having a garden isn’t impossible. By putting a retaining wall in, you will create flat land that will allow plants to grow instead of being uprooted due to gravity.

Water Drainage Issues

Standing water is a big issue in some yards. If standing water is pooling in your garden, roots can drown, leaving them rotted and waterlogged. Worse yet, who wants a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other disease-spreading insects?

Retaining walls have built-in water drainage systems that will redirect water towards storm drains or other outlets. Water drainage systems are a critical part of retaining walls because they are made of nonporous material that makes it impossible for water to pass through.

Erosion is a Concern

Erosion is expected on land that’s not firmly packed because the soil doesn't have a lot of roots holding it together. But it’s annoying having to keep replanting a garden because of mud and water eroding down onto them. More importantly, you want to maintain the structural integrity of the soil your home is built on.

A retaining wall helps channel water down to places to prevent erosion. 

Retaining Walls Can Separate Your Backyard

A retaining wall is a great solution to divide the space. For example, it can separate the kids' play area from where your adult guests sit. The same with your plants. Keep them separated so they can grow.

Foundation of Your House is a Concern

Erosion can wreak havoc on your home’s foundation. Erosion affects both the land on top and the surface deep below. When the soil deep below erodes, it leaves large gaps that can’t support anything. If the foundation of your house sits next to or on top of one of these gaps, its stability can become compromised.

Water can pool in the gaps which can then seep into your foundation and crack it. That’s a costly repair but very necessary as it can affect the safety of your home. By redirecting water and keeping soil contained, a retaining wall can stop this erosion and give your home the extra support it needs.

If you need help to create a retaining wall in your yard, you’re looking in the right place. Visit B&W Concrete today.

Experts Discuss Different Types of Concrete

What Type is Best for What Use

It’s hard to believe, but all concrete is not the same. There are several types so depending on where the concrete is being used, experts need to know which one works best.

1. Normal Strength Concrete & Ordinary or Plain Concrete 

   Both of these contain 1 part concrete, 2 parts sand, and 4 parts aggregate. Normal strength is used for pavements or buildings where stretching and tension are not high. Plain or ordinary concrete is used in the construction of dams, as the durability rating is good for that use.

2. Reinforced Concrete 

   This is widely used in industry and modern construction. It is called reinforced because wires, steel rods, or cables are added to it before it sets. 

3. Pre-stressed Concrete 

   Many concrete projects use pre-stressed concrete, which is concrete using bars or tendons that are stressed before the actual application. After it sets it is put into compression making the lower section of the unit stronger. It is used for bridges. 

4. Precast Concrete 

   This concrete is also created, then assembled onsite. Its ingredients consist of materials such as pumice, clays, and shale. It’s used for long-spanning bridges and building blocks.

5. High-Density Concrete 

   High-density concrete is frequently used in the construction of atomic power plants to help combat radiation leaks. It’s normally made up of crushed rock. 

6. Air-Entrained Concrete 

   Air-entrained concrete holds billions of microscopic air cells that relieve internal pressure. These air cells provide tiny chambers where water expands when it freezes.

7. Ready-Mix Concrete 

   You’ve seen the cement trucks on the road. At the worksite, the cement is used immediately. If it takes too long to get to its destination, the concrete is no longer viable. It is used for buildings, roadways/parking lots, and much more.

8. Volumetric Concrete 

   Volumetric concrete requires specialized trucks that mix the concrete at the construction site, making it possible to use one truck to produce two different mixes of concrete. It is useful in multi-projects where different types of concrete are needed.

9. Decorative Concrete 

   Decorative concrete is a great way to add luster to dull surfaces or structures, such as swimming pools and flooring. 

10. Rapid-Set Concrete 

    The name says it all. It has faster set times and is resistant to low temperatures, so you can do your project in any climate or weather conditions.

11. Smart Concrete 

    This is the concrete of the future. It can sense structural flaws and allows engineers to check the health of structures after an earthquake. It is promising for future projects in cities where earthquakes are prevalent.  

12. Pervious Concrete 

    This is used to build roads and pavements as it helps with pooling water on roadways and runways reducing hydroplaning, tire spray, and snow buildup.

13. Pumped Concrete 

    Pumped concrete is used on floors of tall buildings. It is pumped through a pipe to upper floors.

14. Limecrete 

    Instead of using cement, limecrete uses lime and glass fiber or sharp sand as there are several advantages It is used for vaults, domes, radiant floor heating, and construction floors and is environmentally friendly.

15. Roll Compacted Concrete 

    Roll-compacted concrete is a strong, dense concrete that is used on airport runways and highways that experience heavy volumes of traffic and carry heavy loads.

16. Glass Concrete 

    This uses recycled glass. This concrete is used to decorate facades. It is shiny and the glass gives it a splash of color.

17. Asphalt Concrete 

    More commonly known as asphalt or blacktop, this dark mineral is used anywhere pavement is warranted. It’s durable, flexible, and permeable. Different mixtures are used for different areas.

18. Shotcrete Concrete 

    The basic difference between this and other forms is the way it is applied. Because it requires higher air pressure, the set process happens at the same time as the application.