The concrete effect  or the almost perfect illusion  the press
We love the modernity of raw concrete, waxed concrete, lacquered concrete … False concrete, let us say, which creates a polished slab illusion or the raw effect of the formwork of new constructions. In addition, one wishes to obtain this rendering yourself. Is that a good idea?
Publié le 3 mai 2021 Isabelle Morin La Presse"in recent times, customers have rushed to the products to create concrete effects. And they want to do it themselves, "notes Pascale Turgeon, co-owner of the Montréal decorators, who specializes in the art of forgery and sells to both performing arts professionals and individuals.
The industrial and contemporary effect of concrete seduces customers. And there is no shortage of options to add to its décor. It is used to cover a plot of floor, steps, a counter, an accent wall, decorative accessories, structural columns, a piece of furniture …
Its customers generally turn to waxed concrete with smooth surfaces, in shades of grey. "in Europe, there is a very high demand for coloured concrete: turquoise or pink floors, for example. "
The right products
"if you've never touched a trowel, you have to forget it. It takes someone who is manual to embark on this project," warns Isabelle Leclerc. It's an arm job! "ambiance designer Manon-Rita Babin, who has been a specialist in fake finishes for 35 years, also agrees and suggests that we first take the time to find out (videos can easily be found on YouTube) before embarking on the adventure.
Some companies (Colorbar or Art concrete) prechew part of the work with concrete effect assemblies, which include surface preparation products (which must be impeccable and smooth), a concrete coating (available in different colours), a sealant and a varnish, depending on the desired effect: polished, glazed, raw, etc. Allow $2 to $6.50 per square foot, depending on the quantity purchased and the finish.
These products are expensive and we Don't want to be mistaken.
Manon-Rita Babin, creator of ambiances
If the effect is not pleasing, the concrete surface should either be repainted, which will not lessen the roughness of the surface, or the product should be scraped until a smooth wall is found, which may be long, or the original surface will have to be re-painted (replastering the wall, for example).? In any case, it can be expected that it will take hours. Basic: first hand with a small project without consequences or a surface that can be disposed of. This is especially so before we tackle an ambitious project such as a counter or steps.
1/4A common mistake is to see the trowel strokes on the finish of the concrete. To practice the application technique, use a mixture of jointed cement (pre-mixed) and paint in a ratio of 2: 1, with 4 to 5 tablespoons of concrete glue, depending on the desired consistency, proposes the painters and decorator. Always move-from top to bottom-and start with less visible places.
Professional advice
Reconstructing a surface with products that recreate the concrete effect will never be the equivalent of a concrete cast piece. The matter is not the same. Neither did his resistance. At the end of the day, you will get a relatively thin surface of concrete that will be difficult to withstand the blade of a sharp knife or the stains created by spatter of oil or tomato sauce, unless you superimpose several thicknesses of coating (at least three) and cover them with a few layers of lacquer.? The advantage of such a material, however, is that it can be retouched if there is a hitch.
Sometimes you start, then you want to put it everywhere, but you have to measure: concrete is a cold material. Light in colour, its effect is less massive and less heavy in the décor.
Isabelle Leclerc, painting decorator
"you also need to think modern with concrete and focus on straight lines rather than flashes," she adds.
A concrete finish can be used to cover a ceramic counter. The surface must first be glaced to attenuate gaps. Some brands offer products specifically designed for counters. "take the time to see what you like in this kind of finish before you start. You can create mystery and atmosphere by playing nuances, "says Manon-Rita Babin. The effect can be subtle-use two similar tones of concrete, for example.
If you are reluctant to do it yourself, you can entrust the project to specialists who charge $15 to $25 per square foot. Manon-Rita Babin also gives workshops for those who want to learn how to make false finishes.
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