Minnesota Concrete Blog » Concrete Staining

Exterior Concrete Alternatives for Home and Business

admin — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 16:26:34 +0000

With low cost, durability, and unlimited design possibilities, concrete is the new material of choice for home owners and businesses alike. Outdoor projects like driveways, patios, stairs, walkways, and pools can add value to your property and set it apart from the rest of the houses or buildings on the block. Traditionally patio, pool or other accent area projects could be cost prohibitive using materials like slate, marble, or granite. Exterior concrete is a low cost alternative that can be styled to mimic these materials as well as many more. With Stained concrete you can get the great look you’ve always wanted for a lot less.

Beautifully decorative exterior concrete can add curb appeal to your home or business. Your driveway is often the first thing people will see when visiting your home or office, so why not make it stand out? Driveways are important; they should be functional, but they don’t have to be boring! Flat black asphalt drives or plain grey concrete lack visual impact. A driveway with stain and texture can create an immediate positive impression. Lowell Russell Concrete can help you create a driveway that’s durable and beautiful making it more than just a place to park your car.

Walkways and entryways are also areas that provide an early impression of your home or business. Using the flexibility and nearly unlimited design opportunities of customized concrete can help turn these areas into visually appealing highlights to your property.

Patios are another area where architectural concrete can be used to good effect to enhance and delight. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just relaxing after work, patios enhanced with colored, antiqued, shaped or textured concrete make beautiful spaces to spend your time.

Having an indoor or outdoor pool is unique in Minnesota, but with stamped concrete and border designs you can make your pool area even more special. Installing or remodeling a pool can increase the amount of fun you can have in your home as well as the re-sale value later on. The style and value added to your property is well worth the investment of an indoor or outdoor pool area.

To explore the unlimited possibilities of exterior concrete in Minnesota for your home or business, contact Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or get a quote online. We offer a variety of concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

Exterior Stained Concrete

admin — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 10:05:28 +0000

Concrete slabs are very convenient for outdoor living, but until recently, tended to be unattractive. Design issues can now be solved with stained concrete. The stain uses a mild acid solution to etch into the surface of the concrete and react with the lime, which is natural to concrete mixtures. Once the acid does its work, the color penetrates into the surface of the concrete itself. This makes it permanent, and unlike paint, it will never chip off or fade.

The colors available to exterior stained concrete continues to expand. Whereas earth tones and shades of pale blue were previously common, newer dyes now offer tones of red, yellow, purple, and oranges in different shades. The expanding color palette offers the creative spirit many ways to design an ideal look.

Some choose to just stain the entire concrete with one color. But, that is not the only option. You can use these stains to create abstract designs or even recreate logos and works of art on the concrete surface. The possibilities are really endless when you add in stencils and other tools to the mix.

If you are looking for a way to transform the concrete slabs in your life, then look into the concrete staining options available from Lowell Russell Concrete Inc., your Minnesota concrete stain professionals. You will have a masterpiece outside to enhance your walkway, patio, or entrance within a short time.

If you want to explore the many possibilities of stained concrete in Minneapolis MN for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

Concrete Ideas: The Benefits of Working with Concrete

admin — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 09:27:22 +0000

Although most people are familiar with concrete structures, such as home foundations, many don’t consider the versatility that concrete provides. The adaptability of concrete allows for many varieties of shapes, designs, and logos in whatever colors or patterns the customer desires.

From public plazas to private walkways, swimming pools, and patios, a unique look can be created by using concrete stenciling, stamping, or staining techniques. Either with new or existing concrete, sandblast stenciling can create medallions, borders, or company logos which can then be imprinted with highlights and lettering. Brickform blush-tone acid stain can then be applied to create any color combination desired.

Concrete also has many functional and decorative uses inside a home or building, such as for room additions, floors, countertops, tables, and sinks. Indoors, decorated concrete can be used to simulate other materials such as tile, wood, or stone for a unique interior look, such as enhancing a fireplace.

Customers can supply their own artwork which is camera-ready, or they can supply their artwork on computer laser prints and disks. This artwork can then be reproduced in the exact size desired.

If you want to explore the many possibilities of decorative concrete for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

Benefits of Interior Stained Concrete for Your Home or Business

admin — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 10:56:23 +0000

We understand that using concrete to enhance your decor may be an idea that seems unusual. After all, when most people hear the word “concrete,” they picture a garage floor or the neighborhood sidewalk. We would like you to consider the possibility that concrete can add not only function, but warmth and artistry to the INSIDE of your home.

Take a look at our gallery of decorative concrete photos.

As you can see, the look and uses of concrete are limitless! By incorporating stains, epoxies, aggregates, and your creative ideas, concrete becomes a versatile material that adds unique style to any room. Imagine how a custom countertop, floor or mantle can increase the value of your home. Think about your guests not only seated around your kitchen table, but admiring its beauty. And because concrete is considerably less expensive than many building materials, it won’t break your budget. Its durability and low maintenance keep your cost of ownership low too.

As you consider your next home improvement project, we encourage you to imagine the possibility that stained concrete will not only meet your needs, but go far beyond your expectations. Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. would like to be your partner in transforming your upcoming interior design project into a work of art.

If you want to explore the many possibilities of stained concrete MN for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

Benefits of Interior Decorative Concrete

admin — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 10:28:27 +0000

Concrete floors, entryways, patios, and even countertops are the perfect areas for decorative concrete. Whether the home is a brand new one or decades old, decorative concrete makes it simple to have the desired look. This is especially true since there are different types available that appeal to the different tastes that people have. Those types are stamped, stenciled, and stained concrete.

Stamped concrete has a pattern upon it that is imprinted. For those wishing to have a brick, stone, tile, or even wood appearance that is affordable, stamped concrete can help achieve that look. It is possible to choose from a number of popular designs or have one custom made. This type works well with patios, courtyards, and pool decks.

Stenciled concrete is possible due to what is called decorative sandblast stenciling. This allows an individual to have any design that they desire upon their patio, driveway, countertop, or flooring. Landscaping projects can be completely unique when this technique is used.

Stained concrete is another way to achieve a unique look by having a translucent effect. A penetrating acidic stain is applied to the concrete, which is available in a variety of colors. Through different colors, it is easy to match the color of the home or the décor outside of the home.

Decorative concrete allows for a high class design without the high class cost. There are so many options available that having a traditional or contemporary design of virtually any color or style is not a problem. And any area inside or outside of the home can be decorated in this way because the concrete will last for many years.

If you want to explore the many possibilities of decorative concrete in Minnesota for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

Benefits of Decorative Concrete for Your Home or Business

admin — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 10:27:18 +0000

You have probably seen decorative concrete in many places but not realized what material it was! Concrete has traveled a long way from gray sidewalks and driveways. Just a few examples of what concrete can be used for are: sleek and durable concrete countertops, innovative concrete walls resembling any material, and high end polished concrete floors of any color. Decorative concrete can also give you a custom look for a driveway, pool, or patio area. In short, concrete can be stained any color, designed to imitate almost any surface, and can be used virtually anywhere.

Concrete has become one of the most sought after materials on the design market for its versatility and many other good reasons. It is less expensive than other design materials, more durable, virtually maintenance free, and environmentally friendly.

One popular option is stamped concrete, this is typically used for outdoor projects and the concrete can be dyed any color or combination of colors. The concrete is stamped when it is wet to give it the look of stone or brick. You can get the same look for half the price of traditional materials. Just a few of the design options are custom walkways, stairs, and retaining walls.

Concrete can also be polished, and when polished it is typically used for maintenance free flooring that will never need to be refinished or waxed! While polished floors have mainly been used for businesses, homeowners are turning to this solution for a custom floor that is a beautiful focal point of their home.

If you have existing concrete that you do not want to replace but you do want it to be more decorative, concrete can also be engraved. An experienced decorative concrete installer can use tools to etch designs into the concrete. The etching can be done alone or accompanied by staining, which can be done in any hue. Contact an experienced decorative concrete installer today, save money, and make your design dreams come true!

The Beauty and Benefits of Exterior Stained Concrete for Your Home or Business

admin — Mon, 31 May 2010 10:23:03 +0000

Though everybody has heard the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover!” at least once, the simple reality of things for a business or homeowner is that looks do matter. For example, the exterior aesthetic of a business location says a lot, and an inventive and bright look shows customers that a business owner is willing to go above and beyond in the name of the extraordinary. This gives potential customers a reason to think twice and actually remember a business. And one great way to get the point across is by getting creative with concrete staining and etching.

When most people think “Concrete”, they think of a rough chunk of boring grey material. Concrete etching and staining challenges and changes that perception. The creations that can be made by using acid etching techniques and saws to create patterns are so exquisite that you would never guess the material was concrete!

Rich colors and beautiful patterns are combined to create formal and elegant marble-like looks or bold and artistic shapes and patterns. The finished work is topped with a sealant that provides protection and your choice of shine. What better way to get customers to remember your logo than to have it brilliantly etched into the sidewalk in front of your shop? Or check out the Photo Gallery for beautiful examples of decorative concrete floors.

The textures that can be created with concrete staining and etching are limited only to the imagination of the creator and the wide array of techniques can bring out that extra bit of “Wow!” in any home or business!

If you want to explore the many possibilities of stained concrete for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

The Benefits and Beauty of Interior Concrete Countertops

admin — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:25:47 +0000

For customers in the market for countertops, there’s no better option than concrete. Concrete seamlessly combines durability with elegant simplicity and provides countless options for design.

In addition to durability, concrete is also a sustainable, green product. Concrete contains varying combinations of natural resources, like ash, gravel, limestone, and sand—which are abundantly available locally. Using regionally produced raw materials helps to keep the carbon footprint small, and also keeps the cost lower than other materials such as granite, which would need to be shipped from another part of the country.

Concrete counters are handcrafted; this allows the customer to choose from numerous options to design just the right countertop for their home or business. Because the concrete is cast in molds, the customer can request unique shaping for added interest. A drainboard can be integrated into the countertop to facilitate food production. Or an integrated sink can be made from the concrete, for an efficient, streamlined appearance.

Many techniques are available to add patterns, color, and/or texture to concrete countertops. Staining involves the use of chemicals to create a colored or textured appearance, allowing the counter to mimic the look of tile, wood, or stone. Stenciling is done by using a sandblasting technique to create borders, logos, and original artwork. Embedding is a process by which coins, glass, fossils, stones, or other desired items are added to the counter to create a unique, customized appearance. And concrete countertops can be polished to add an elegant, high-gloss finish.

At Lowell Russell, we are dedicated to excellence in workmanship and customer satisfaction, and we use cutting-edge techniques and equipment to give our customers the counters they deserve.

If you want to investigate the many possibilities of concrete countertops for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

The Beauty of Stained Concrete and Interior Concrete Floors

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 10:25:21 +0000

One of the most exciting developments in the construction industry over the last several years is the widespread use of stained concrete. The applications for this process are limitless and many people are utilizing this new technique on concrete floors in their home or business.

It is virtually impossible to describe the breathtaking designs and beautiful layouts that are being produced with stained concrete. From a planned design, to a graphic that takes its own shape, concrete floors are literally stopping people in their tracks. Take a look at some of the beautiful possibilities that exist in our concrete floors photo gallery.

Many people who have allergies and have fought with carpet all their lives are finding stained concrete to be a wonderful alternative. As beautiful as any carpet, a stained concrete floor is so easy to keep clean, is fresh at all times and can be matched seamlessly to the other designer elements in a home.

In addition to increased customer satisfaction, builders and designers are thrilled with the new innovations in stained concrete, and are excited about this constantly changing technology and design alternative. Almost any idea a homeowner can come up with can be brought to life in stained concrete.

Many companies and businesses are also utilizing stained concrete as an inexpensive method for putting their company logo on the floor in the entrance to their building. It makes an elegant and stylish statement to customers, and reflects innovation.

If you want to investigate the many possibilities of stained concrete and concrete floors for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.

The Beauty and Benefits of Stained Concrete Floors

admin — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:40:53 +0000

When searching for the perfect material for your floor, one of the greatest alternatives to marble, tile, and block is stained concrete. Builders understand concrete flooring is one of the most versatile products in use today, because almost any look can be created and match the surroundings of a driveway, cement floor, concrete wall, pool deck, patio, or walkway.

The magic of concrete floors are that the stained concrete can be made to look just like marble, wood, stone, and even leather. Not only is stained concrete used for outdoor flooring, it can even be used to create a spectacular looking floor for indoor rooms. Stained concrete is also much less expensive than any of the aforementioned options for flooring, and one can create a superior look for a fraction of the cost.

Concrete staining is achieved by applying an acid-based stain to a concrete slab. The way the concrete takes the stain is different in each instance, which leads to a unique look from project to project. Usually the stains used for concrete produce an earthy array of tones such as: brown, terra cotta, tan, and blue-green. Although there are manufacturers that have developed other colors, subtle earthy tones are a perfect accent for outdoor areas. And concrete staining creates absolutely gorgeous floors that will look exactly like other types of flooring.

One of the biggest benefits of stained concrete as opposed to other flooring methods is that the bond of the stain to the concrete is very tough and the stain will not chip, crack, or fade. And, not only is cement durable and allows the stain to hold up over time, it looks magnificent and each project brings a new distinct and custom look that will add character and richness to any outdoor or indoor area or room. Therefore, stained concrete is the best and longest lasting flooring solution there is.

If you want to investigate the many possibilities of stained concrete floors for your home or business, consider contacting Lowell Russell Concrete, Inc. in Minnesota, at 952-461-3710 or Request a Quote online. We offer a variety of decorative concrete services, including interior and exterior applications, staining, stenciling and imprinting of concrete.