How to Spice up Existing Concrete

Concrete floors, whether used in a residential home, a grocery store or a manufacturing plant, are basically the same. In commercial or industrial settings, though, the concrete slabs usually have special requirements based on the loads or flatness or levelness required. To get a concrete slab that meets these requirements, NXT Concrete uses special techniques in pouring and finishing the concrete. Commercial or industrial floors can also have special requirements for surface hardness, finish, and even color. Wal-Mart, for example, has specifications for their exposed concrete floors that incorporates color, surface densifiers, and even a hard troweled finish. Commercial / Industrial floors can be built on grade or can be suspended. Suspended floors are often built on metal decking, which is corrugated sheet metal supported by structural steel. Achieving high flatness and levelness values on these floors can be difficult since the decks and frames deflect under the weight of the concrete. Commercial or industrial floors tend to be large surface areas that are susceptible to damage and cracking. A lot of that can be controlled by using the right materials in the mix designs. The key is to use the largest possible aggregate (since aggregate can't shrink), to get a well-graded aggregate (meaning there is aggregate of every size from larg- to small), and to use the lowest water content possible. The timing and finish work done by NXT concrete are also critical to getting a good concrete slab and there is a certain amount of planning and prep needed to accomplish these equally important goals of a durable floor. Here are a few important points: The maximum size of coarse aggregate should not exceed 3/4 the minimum clear spacing of the reinforcing bars in structural floors, or 1/3 the thickness of non-reinforced slabs. Aggregates as large as 1.5 inches, though, can often be used. Fly ash or slag cement commonly appears in commercial or industrial floors. These materials (along with silica fume) are called supplementary cementitious materials or pozzolans and have various purposes. A material sometimes used with commercial or industrial floors is expansive cement (also called shrinkage-compensating cement). Shrinkage-compensating concrete expands slightly while setting then shrinks back to its original size. When done properly this can eliminate cracking and increase the spacing of control joints, but it requires an experienced concrete contractor and ready-mix producer to get everything to work properly. Hard, wear-resistant aggregates such as quartz, emery, and traprock, as well as malleable metallic hardeners, are frequently used as surface treatments in commercial or industrial floors. They are applied to the top surface as dry shakes and finished into the surface of the floor to improve the abrasion resistance of the surface. Concrete reinforcement comes in various types, these include welded wire fabric (mesh), steel reinforcing bars (rebar), synthetic fiber reinforcement (0.75 to 1.5 pounds/cubic yard), and steel fibers (34 to 68 pounds/cubic yard). Synthetic fibers, commonly polypropylene, are primarily useful for preventing plastic shrinkage cracking. Some fibers, such as steel fibers, can improve concrete flexural strength. All concrete slabs poured directly on the ground require good and uniform sub grade or base beneath to support the concrete. Soft spots are the death of any slab. Here are a few things to keep in mind about the subgrade (the ground beneath the slab) and the subbase (an optional compacted gravel layer between the concrete and the subgrade): Grading of the subgrade—or rough grading--should meet a tolerance of +0 inch/–1½ inches. Base tolerances—or fine grading--should meet a tolerance of +0 inch/–1 inch for floor Classes 1 to 3 and +0 inch/–3/4 inch for floor Classes 4 to 9. The base material should be a compact-able, easy to trim, granular fill that will remain stable and support whatever equipment may be used on it. This can be stationary machinery or even forklifts or construction equipment driving over it. Vapor barriers are essential beneath most interior concrete floors, especially if there is any intention of installing moisture-sensitive floor coverings (tile, wood, vinyl, etc.). In general, the vapor barrier should be directly beneath the concrete. Whenever possible, NXT Concrete will install floor slabs in a controlled environment. Ideally the roof will be on and the walls in place—protecting the soil support system and the concrete slab from wind, rain, sun, and extreme temperatures will greatly improve the concrete slab. What are waiting for? Contact NXT Concrete to learn more about how our company can help yours!

When considering flooring options for a home or commercial space, the appeal of stained concrete floors are undeniable. This versatile flooring choice has been gaining popularity for its aesthetic flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. But as with any flooring option, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to determine if stained concrete is the right choice for your space. Knowing the differences between colored and stained concrete can help in choosing the right option for your property. What Are Stained Concrete Floors? Stained concrete floors are concrete floors that have been treated with a special acid or water-based stain to achieve a rich color effect. These stains penetrate the concrete to produce permanent color that won’t fade, peel, or chip away. This process creates a variety of colors and designs for floors. It can range from natural colors to bright ones, resulting in each floor being unique and personalized. Pros of Stained Concrete Floors Durability and Longevity: Concrete floors are known for their strength and durability. When properly sealed, stained concrete floors are resistant to scratches, chips, and stains, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Low Maintenance: Stained concrete floors require minimal upkeep. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a neutral cleaner are all it takes to keep them looking their best. Cost-Effective: Compared to other flooring options, stained concrete is relatively inexpensive, especially if you are working with an existing concrete slab. The cost savings on installation and long-term maintenance make it a more budget-friendly choice. Aesthetically Pleasing: The staining process allows for a variety of finishes, from glossy to matte, and can mimic the look of more expensive flooring options like marble, granite, or even wood. Eco-Friendly: Stained concrete utilizes the existing concrete slab, reducing the need for new materials and minimizing waste. It’s an excellent option for those looking to make environmentally conscious decisions in their building or renovation projects. Cons of Stained Concrete Floors Hardness: While the durability of concrete is a significant advantage, its hardness can be a downside. Concrete floors can be tough on the feet and legs when standing for prolonged periods, and dropped items are more likely to break upon impact. Coldness: Concrete floors can feel cold on bare feet, particularly in winter months or in cooler climates. However, this can be mitigated with area rugs or the installation of radiant floor heating. Moisture Sensitivity: If not properly sealed, concrete floors can be susceptible to moisture. This can lead to the growth of mold or mildew, especially in basements or other areas prone to dampness. Complexity of Installation: Achieving the desired look with stained concrete requires expertise and experience of the professionals at NXT Concrete. The process of staining and sealing concrete floors is complex, and mistakes can be difficult to rectify. Colored Concrete vs. Stained Concrete Understanding the difference between colored concrete and stained concrete is crucial for selecting the right flooring option for your project. Colored concrete involves adding pigment to the concrete mix before it is poured, resulting in a uniform color throughout the concrete slab. This method is ideal for achieving solid, consistent colors. On the other hand, stained concrete refers to the application of stains to the surface of an existing concrete slab. This technique allows for more intricate designs and color variations, creating a more dynamic and visually interesting floor. Stained concrete can mimic the appearance of natural stone, polished marble, and other materials, offering greater aesthetic flexibility than colored concrete. Stained Concrete Stained concrete floors offer a unique combination of durability, aesthetic appeal, and cost-effectiveness, making them an attractive option for many homeowners and business owners. However, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks, such as the hardness as wells as the coldness of the material and the complex installation process. By understanding the differences between stained and colored concrete, you can choose the flooring solution that best meets your needs, ensuring a beautiful and functional space for years to come.

Entertaining outside is becoming a staple for many people, especially during the warmer months. Homeowners are constantly looking for ways to invest in their outdoor space, making it more inviting and also functional. One trend that is catching on is the use of concrete bar countertops. These countertops are becoming sleek, modern surfaces while adding touches of sophistication to any outdoor area while offering multiple practical benefits. The Benefits of Concrete Bar Countertops Durability and Weather Resistance One of the key features of concrete bar countertops is their durability. Unlike other materials that may crack, warp, or fade over time, concrete is made to last. It withstands extreme temperatures and heavy storms without showing signs of wear and tear. This makes it an excellent choice for outdoor spaces in areas where the weather can be unpredictable. Bonus, concrete is resistant to UV rays, which means it won't fade or discolor when exposed to direct sunlight. This key feature ensures that your outdoor concrete bar countertop will maintain its appearance for years to come, making it a worthwhile investment. Versatility in Design and Color Options Another advantage of concrete is its versatility. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or something more rustic and textured, concrete can be molded to meet your design preferences. The concrete can be customized to mock the appearance of natural stone, wood, or even metal, giving you endless possibilities to match your existing décor. Color options are equally abundant. Concrete can be dyed in various shades to complement your outdoor space. From classic neutrals to bold, vibrant hues, the choice is yours. This versatility allows you to create a truly unique and personalized bar countertop that reflects your personal style. Low Maintenance and Long-Term Cost-Effectiveness Concrete bar countertops require almost no maintenance, making them an ideal choice for busy homeowners. A simple routine of regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient. Additionally, applying a sealant once a year can help protect the concrete from stains and spills, ensuring its longevity. The long-term cost-effectiveness of concrete is another appealing factor. While the initial investment may be higher compared to other materials, the durability and low maintenance requirements translate to fewer repair and replacement costs over time. This makes concrete a smart, economical choice for your outdoor bar area. Designing Your Outdoor Bar Area with Concrete Countertops Selecting the Right Concrete Design When it comes to designing your outdoor bar area, the first step is selecting the right concrete design. Start by considering the overall look of your outdoor space. Are you aiming for a modern, minimalist look or something more traditional and cozy? The design of your concrete countertops should align with the existing backyard design to create a cohesive environment. Think about the color palette as well. Neutral tones like gray, beige, and white can provide a sleek, sophisticated backdrop, while bolder colors like navy or forest green can add a pop of excitement. Consulting with an expert at NXT Concrete can help you make the best choice for your space. Integrating Functional Features To maximize the potential of your outdoor bar area, consider intertwining practical features into your new concrete countertops. Built-in sinks can make washing glasses and utensils a breeze, while added bar seating ensures your guests have a comfortable place to relax and enjoy their drinks. Additionally, incorporating lighting elements into the design can enhance the ambiance of your space. LED strips or built-in light fixtures can create a warm, inviting atmosphere. By thoughtfully planning these features, you can create an outdoor bar area that is both beautiful and functional. Customizing Your Concrete Countertops Exploring Customization Options One of the most exciting aspects of choosing concrete for your outdoor bar countertops is the ability to customize the material to suit your preferences. With concrete, you can choose from a wide range of options, including unique colors, textures, and finishes. Whether you want a smooth, polished surface or a more textured, rustic look, the possibilities are endless. Consider experimenting with different edges as well. Rounded edges can offer a softer, more elegant appearance, while sharp, clean lines can give a modern, industrial feel. Experimenting with custom concrete designs allows you to bring your vision to life, ensuring your concrete countertops are a perfect fit for you and your outdoor space. Not to mention, adding value to your property if you ever decide to sell. Working with a Concrete Designer The process of working with a custom concrete designer begins with a consultation to discuss your ideas and preferences. During this initial meeting, you can share inspiration photos, color samples, and any specific requirements you may have in mind. The experts at NXT Concrete will use this information to create a detailed plan. Once you approve the design, the production phase begins. Skilled artisans will craft your custom concrete countertops, paying close attention to every detail to ensure a flawless finish. The final step involves installation, where our team will carefully place and secure the countertops in your outdoor bar area, transforming your vision into reality. Maintenance and Care Routine Cleaning and Upkeep Maintaining your outdoor concrete bar countertop is straightforward and hassle-free. Regular cleaning with a mild soap and water solution will help keep the surface free from dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers, as these can damage the sealant and compromise the integrity of the concrete. For tougher stains or spills, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a gentle scrubbing paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and scrub gently with a soft cloth. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry with a clean towel to prevent water spots. Addressing Minor Repairs Over time, you may notice small cracks or chips in your concrete countertops. These can typically be repaired with a concrete patching compound, which is available at most hardware stores. Clean the damaged area thoroughly, apply the patching compound according to the manufacturer's instructions, and allow it to dry completely. Sand the repaired area lightly for a smooth finish, and reapply the sealant to protect the surface. Transform Your Outdoor Space with Concrete Bar Countertops Concrete bar countertops offer an unbeatable combination of durability, versatility, and low maintenance, making them an ideal choice for enhancing your outdoor entertaining space. With a wide range of design options and customization possibilities, you can create a bar area that is both functional and visually stunning. If you're ready to transform your outdoor bar area with custom concrete countertops, consider working with NXT Concrete . Our expert team will help you bring your vision to life with precision and craftsmanship. Explore our gallery of past projects and contact us today for a consultation .

Your home or business is an important part of who you are so you want to keep it not only comfortable and functional, but also beautiful to look at! Outdoor spaces are sadly often overlooked as an integral piece of your property, a space where you or your employees should be able to take advantage of the many benefits of the crisp clean air along with the same comforts that the interior of the home or office offer. Here are some examples of cost effective ways you can create the perfect outdoor space for you, your family, guests or employees. Decorative Stamped Concrete Concrete does not have to be the rough, gray, cold surface that it is usually thought of as being. This solid material can be created and manipulated into beautiful, decorative surfaces that will completely change the space around it. Use it for patios, outdoor countertops, pool decks, or any walkway! Decorative concrete ranges in color anywhere from earth tones to crisp colors and can be laid in patterns and designs to brighten the ground under foot. Because this is such a necessary part of your backyard’s function, why not make it a beautiful one as well as a durable, lasting one! Native Plants The flowers and foliage you plant in your space is one of the best ways to add natural splashes of colors all throughout the landscape. However, some species of plant life are more likely to thrive in your specific location than others! Using plants and flowers that are native to your area and are suited for your climate and the soils of your environment. This makes them extremely easy to maintain, as they require minimal assistance or resources to get them growing well, and are cost effective as a result. Of course, you can still plant your favorites regardless of their origins, but by allowing the majority of your landscape to take care of the plants it is used to you can keep the colors vibrant throughout the space without daily care or expensive maintenance. Furniture Provide everyone with somewhere to sit back and relax as you enjoy the fresh air. Patio furniture is also an opportunity to add some intentional design or style to your space. Consider the mood that you want to create, and pick furniture materials and styles that fit that vision. Iron is sturdy and lasts longer than most other materials. It also requires little forethought for placement or maintenance, where others like wood furniture do. Also, wood furniture fades in direct sun , so choose a shaded spot for your furniture if you do pick this option. Wood is a popular choice for its rustic feel and range in colors. Whatever your ideas for comfortable sitting, look into the pros and cons of each material before committing to an entire set and having to pay for future repairs! Stone Stones are one of the most versatile materials you can access, and they are often cheap to use! Whether in plant beds, walkways, building material or as a foundation of the very ground you put your furniture on, stone is an extremely long lasting option that requires little to no maintenance. Stack flat rock for fire pits, barriers and walls, or lay them out as stepping stones and fill the area around it with gravel. Lay down crushed granite as a base for artificial turf, put river rock in your water features, or spread lava rock around your trees to absorb some heat during the day and then provide warmth to soil during the evening. You can even use boulders as unique, bold features in your yard that offer climbing fun for kids, visual variance against the rest of your landscaping, and even as seating. Gardens You don’t need to have a green thumb to maintain a garden or enjoy the “fruits” of your labors. Gardens provide a number of benefits to your area and are a beautiful addition to any space! Produce like green beans, tomatoes, and squash are popular for beginning gardeners and provide fresh, organic vegetables for enjoyment, saving money on the same products you’d otherwise buy from the store. In addition, herbs with strong smells like mint, lavender, and basil add to the sensory aesthetic of your space, and ward off annoying bugs and pests because of their smell! Herb gardens are a very cost-effective way to add beauty to your yard! Lighting If you’d like your space to extend into the later hours of the day, make sure you have sufficient and pleasant lighting! You can use lighting as an element of your design. It’s also a great way to take advantage of solar powered bulbs or use long-lasting LED lights to save your energy bill from the added expenses! Shade While you may want some lighting for the evening time, you may need some shade for the day. Anything that provides some shade is a way to keep cool, protect you from harmful UV rays, and offer you a break from constant squinting in the bright sun. Plus, shade materials are a great option for design elements that you can use anywhere in your space! For long-term cost effectiveness, plant trees or build your backyard lounging area under an already-present shady tree. Your options are endless for ways to add some needed shade. Make your yard as comfortable and beautiful as the rooms inside your home without so much of the cost. Talk to the experts at NXT Concrete about how we can help you create that perfect space!

Trying to pour concrete in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio can be a nightmare if you don't take the time to learn what causes cracks and how to prevent them before your concrete fails. This blog is designed to help you better understand and identify some of the most common factors leading to cracked (or failing) concrete. Most of the time, you're going to need an expert to help identify the problem and how to best move forward. Lucky for you, NXT Concrete has experts that can help with just that. Poor Selection of Materials Many people assume that concrete (or “mud”) is all the same and that they can get great results from whatever product they go with. False. A lot of types of cement or mud were designed for more decorative uses and will crack if you try to use them for driveways or other high-stress areas, such as a garage or pole barn floor. You need mud that is designed and mixed specifically for the right purpose to avoid cracks on your surface. For example, you should find bags labeled “for construction use” to ensure your concrete is strong enough to withstand regular use. Just as importantly, you need to make sure that your temperature rating is at the right level to avoid further complications as well. For example, some mixes are rated for hot temperatures while others are rated for colder temps. Others are for more general use and will adapt based on the temperature. Adding Too Much Weight Concrete is designed to be strong enough to withstand most things but can crack if you add too much weight to its surface. This problem is typically common along the weaker areas, like the edges of a driveway or parking pad and will send cracks through the entire surface. Adding too much weight on one spot can damage your surface, but moving these items evenly across the surface may prevent many of these common problems. Poor Joint Placement After your pavement is poured, a series of joints will be cut into the surface. These joints are designed to give your driveway some room to grow and shrink. However, cracks will appear around these joints if they are not cut correctly. This error can range from the depth of the cut, the distance between cuts, cuts made to soon or even waiting to long after the pour to place the joints. Extreme Temperature Changes Concrete is generally strong enough to withstand a wide array of temperature changes, but it may experience issues when the temps reach extreme highs or lows around the time of the pour. Quick temperature changes will also cause expansion and contraction of the moisture in your concrete, which may cause cracks to appear. We all know Mother Nature likes to throw us some curve balls around these parts. Unfortunately, there isn't much that you can do to fully avoid this problem if you live in Michigan, Indiana or Ohio. However, you can prevent some of this damage by adding a sealing agent to your concrete. This step will minimize how much damage the sun and ice can do to your concrete surface. Poor Drying When your pavement is poured and adequately maintained, no cracks should appear in its surface. However, poor drying could cause complications with how well your concrete settles through the hydration process. Even worse, there may not be enough moisture in the concrete or even the ground below, which can cause it to become hard or brittle. As a result, the surface may start to crack right away as it dries. Adding Too Much Water One of the biggest factors to failed concrete is adding too much water to the mix. While water is a necessary part of the pouring process, excess water can water down your concrete and make it less durable, making it more prone to damage. As a result, you need to make sure that the water added to your mud (concrete mix) is done so at the correct levels. Typically, you need one bucket of water per every 10-pound bag of cement. Any more than that and your concrete will come out very watery. If you notice that the mixture has too much water, you can add more cement mixture – a handful at a time – to balance out its thickness a little better. Ground Movement One may think that the ground beneath their concrete is stable, false. The dirt and soil underneath your concrete surfaces are likely to go through frequent changes, such as heaving and settling. Either of these can do a real number on your concrete and cause serious issues down the road. One way to avoid this problem is to remove trees from your yard near the concrete surface or where you’d like to have it poured. Tree roots often grow under your pavement and cause a variety of soil problems. You may also need to add a more stable and compacted subsurface beneath your new surface before you pour the concrete to avoid this complication. No matter what you choose to do it’s always best to have an expert do any concrete work that you’d like done. Concrete can be very fickle and it’s best you let the professionals handle it. Here at NXT Concrete we have over 20 years of experience and can easily diagnose any issue you may have now or in the future. We also know how to pour based on temperatures and weather conditions. Call NXT Concrete today to schedule your free consultation and get an estimate by our professionals.

Designing a Walkway using Stained Concrete Sidewalks are necessary for pedestrians. They provide a safe space for people to walk and provide additional help for individuals with mobility issues. Sidewalks can also accommodate changes in elevation, reducing a number of potential hazards. With that, the material you choose to use for your walkway also makes a difference. One material that has many benefits but often goes overlooked is concrete or stamped decorative concrete. When most people think of concrete, they think of a boring, gray concrete slab. However, this doesn’t always have to be the case when it comes to concrete sidewalks or walkways. Benefits of Stained Concrete Walkways There are many benefits to choosing concrete instead of another material. While natural stone and gravel can be pretty, they’re not necessarily the most practical. If you’re using the sidewalk or walkway as a way to make getting around, then you may find that loose stone isn’t the easiest material to walk on. Brick, granite, and flagstone tend to be easier to walk on, and they’re very pretty, but they also tend to be pretty expensive to maintain. Concrete has many benefits compared to other materials and is one of the most durable materials you can choose. It doesn’t rot or rust, it’s weather-resistant, and even resists erosion to an extent. Concrete is also fairly low maintenance. It needs to be cleaned around once a year, ideally in the springtime, to remove dirt, salt, and grime. It may need to be resealed roughly every two years. The Versatility of Designs of Stained Concrete Walkways There are many things to consider when creating a stained concrete walkway. Since concrete is so versatile in its uses, patterns, and color options, you’ll have a virtually endless number of walkway designs to choose from. You don’t even have to settle for a color and design combo that you’ve seen elsewhere if you’re having trouble finding something that you like. With stamped and stained concrete sidewalks, you can create walkways with a one-of-a-kind look that nobody has ever tried before. There are many benefits to choosing to use stained concrete for your walkway, but if it’s not installed and prepared correctly, then a lot of these benefits will diminish. Stained concrete installation is best left to the professionals, and it’s essential to make sure you have a team that knows what they’re doing. NXT Concrete prides ourselves on being that team, we use top-notch materials, providing high-quality customer service, and performing expert installations.