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Recently, there has been interest in decorative concrete pavement, which is actively used in landscape design. It will be useful for the reader to know that you can make decorative concrete with your own hands. Having mastered the flex technology of creating concrete, you can amazingly transform your country property. The advantages of decorative concrete that everyone modern man notes for himself are: an individual approach to the territory, quality, durability, the ability to choose a non-standard type of coating. Decorative composition can imitate wood, stone, marble, granite and other natural surfaces.

Technology for creating decorative concrete with your own hands

It is known that to obtain high-quality concrete you need to use cement of a certain class (M 400, M 500). To significantly improve the quality of the coating, it is often used modern material– fiber fiber.

Two ways to produce decorative concrete

• vibration casting to obtain a textured surface;
• vibration pressing with fine aggregate to produce tile elements.

Adding color to concrete

To obtain a colored decorative product, it is necessary to use colors. This operation has its own nuances. Thus, to obtain a bright color, preference should be given to white Portland cement. The color of the quartz sand used (dark, light tone). To express explicitly the structural composition of the future decorative covering, fragments of ceramics, glass, granite chips, basalt, anthracite, etc. are added to it. To express the textured surface, compositions that slow down the hardening of concrete are used. For a bright appearance of the pattern, surface treatment with hydrochloric acid can be used.

The formation of the decorative coating begins at the final stage of surface finishing. It is at this time that they apply coloring pigments and other special compounds.

The application of a surface decorative layer can be done in various ways:

• spraying;
• painting using a stencil;
• stamping.

Before starting the spraying process, the concrete surface is stirred vertically. To apply a special paint layer, you need a sprayer and pigment. To obtain a deeper color of the surface, painting is carried out in several layers. Using this method, when the paint enters into a chemical reaction with concrete, you can imitate the look of natural stone, brick, etc.

Due to the use of stencils and dyes, it is possible obtaining a specific image. In retail outlets you can purchase reusable stencils, various forms. If you were unable to purchase the required design, you can make a stencil for concrete yourself. The material for this can be varied - plywood, plastic and even cardboard. The final stage is the application of a fixing impregnation layer.

Stamped (printed) concrete

The most popular method of producing decorative concrete is stamping. The final version is often called stamped concrete. Seals or stamps are made from silicone, rubber or polyurethane. According to the technology, the stamps are pressed into the still plastic surface of the concrete and removed after it hardens. Before using the stamps, the concrete is treated with a coloring pigment, a moisture-resistant additive and a fixative, and after the stamps are removed, fixing compounds are applied to the relief surfaces. Prints are used on horizontal and vertical surfaces.

Manufacturers often keep the composition of a particular stamped mixture secret.

How to create concrete garden paths

High-quality decorative art concrete contains white sand, high-grade cement and a significant number of plasticizers.

In order to start producing art concrete yourself, need to take care of the premises. The industrial zone must have an area of ​​at least 50 m2. For optimal drying of concrete, the room requires ventilation and heating in winter period. To start producing printed concrete, for example for paving garden paths, you need to purchase a concrete mixer, seals and a vibrating table. Raw materials: cement grade M. 400, plasticizers, sand, pigments.

On outdoors When paving garden paths, it is necessary to act at temperature conditions not lower than +5C.

Before embarking on large-scale changes to the site, you should prepare a project. A new garden path, a platform in front of a garage or a recreation area must be prepared for concreting.

The process of creating pressed concrete for a garden path

1. Armed with stakes and construction cord, mark and determine the boundaries of the future coating of decorative concrete.

2. Start removing the soil layer, 20 cm deep. At the border along the perimeter, formwork is installed (boards or specially knocked together panels).

3. Organize a drainage layer of sand and crushed stone of the middle fraction.

4. Laying a waterproofing layer of polyethylene.

5. Additionally, you can use polypropylene fiber to create a reinforcing layer, where 600 g of material is required for 1 m2.

6. Pour onto the prepared area concrete mixture from a concrete mixer and compacted using a vibrating screed device. To remove excess air, the surface is rolled with a construction roller and then smoothed. Decorative look concrete is achieved in this case by introducing coloring pigments or large fractions of granite, marble, etc. into the working mixture.

Approximate composition of a mixture of decorative printed concrete on a vertical surface

What is needed to create printed concrete with your own hands:

Working vertical surface must be prepared. To do this, remove old finishing, seal the cracks, blow off the dust and prime. Primer required special purpose(on concrete), which does not form a sticky film on the working surface.

Next, you should proceed from the thickness of the layer of decorative framing. If it is planned to be more than 3-5 cm, then there is a need to organize a reinforcing mesh. Such a plaster network will not allow the decor to crack or crumble.

Important at self-production mixtures use special composition putty, white cement with plasticizer or tile adhesive. If there is no plasticizer in the composition, you can add it yourself. Beginners are not recommended to add PVA without previous positive experience, because inaccurate dosage can affect the final result.

Using a spatula, apply a concrete layer to the work surface with a thickness of 1cm to 5cm and then apply the embossing form. Used to level the surface wooden slats. Embossing will take 60-70 minutes.

You can determine when to remove the uniform by the touch of fingers on concrete. If there is no glue residue left on your fingers, the mold can be removed. To prevent the print from sticking to the decorative layer, it should be treated with inside specialist. separator or soapy water. When the specified time has passed, the form is pressed into the cement, tapped a little with a rubber hammer and removed. To make special recesses and create relief, clear edges, special tools during the first 24 hours after mixing decorative cement.

Next, we begin painting the surface. To do this, colored pigments are mixed with a fixative impregnation. Then the color mixture is applied paint brush or spray. There are technologies according to which pigments are added directly to concrete, but their content should not exceed 5% of general composition mixtures. Flex technology involves the creation of various surfaces. For example, under the appearance of natural stone, where special compounds are often used to create artificial aging.

DIY decorative block

You can create your own stamp using silicone sealant And wooden box . The height of the sides of the box must be at least 12 cm, and the sealant base must contain acetic acid. After this, the box is generously filled with sealant and carefully straightened with a brush dipped in water. Lay the tiles face down on a layer of sealant and wait until the material hardens.

In order for the tile to move away from the sealant layer without problems after hardening, it is recommended to lubricate it with grease. In return finished tiles, you can use natural stones directly suitable size. The stones are pressed into the silicone according to the planned pattern. When will the seal or stamp be ready for future decorative concrete slabs, you can begin paving garden paths and cladding the walls of buildings.

In order to obtain a decorative concrete block, you can proceed as follows:

1. prepare one tile with imitation of natural stone;
2. 3 parts quartz sand;
3. 1 part white cement;
4. 2 parts granite chips;
5. take a plasticizer (no more than 5% of the total mass).

The consistency of the finished concrete should be such that it slowly slides off the trowel. To speed up the work process, it is recommended to make several molds for stamped concrete.

Artistic concrete

Very popular artistic concrete due to the simultaneous performance of architectural and aesthetic functions.

The composition of a color mixture with a decorative function can pursue several goals at the same time: constructive - geometric, artistic-sculptural, and stamped-artistic. The plasticity of the mass allows you to imitate various natural surfaces (use of stamps and seals).

Pressed concrete is obtained based on the press principle, which can also be modified by adding plasticizers and mineral additives.

After hardening, any decorative cement needs a protective fixing layer that will protect the product in the future from abrasion, mechanical damage, ultraviolet rays, natural precipitation, etc.

By changing the composition of the decorative concrete mixture or technology, you get:

Manufacturers building material went further and created new products that can be safely used for decorative purposes. Such a product is composite slabs, which successfully imitate decorative concrete in appearance. Distinctive feature such materials are light in weight, wide choose colors and textures, but a lower degree of strength and a short service life.

Many people imagine concrete as a gray, shapeless mass. This opinion has existed for decades, dating back to Soviet times. However, for last years A lot has changed in the construction industry. In this regard, even such familiar technologies and building materials can be looked at from a completely different angle. This also affected concrete. Now decorative concrete completely changes the attitude towards itself. But first, let’s look at what it is and what requirements apply to decorative concrete.

What is decorative concrete

Decorative concrete is a composite material. It consists of the following main parts:

• fine aggregate,
• coarse aggregate,
• water,
• cement,
• dye,
• additives.

It is the composition of decorative concrete that distinguishes it from its simple counterpart. Therefore, almost any shape can be made from it; thanks to this quality, it has found wide application in a variety of fields. For example, it is used to make stucco molding with embedded parts, paving slabs, paving stones of various shapes, and so on. The main advantage of such concrete is its high abrasion resistance. There are several main types of decorative concrete:

1. Colored concrete.
2. Concrete imitating small artistic and architectural forms, for example, figures of fountains, animals and the like.
3. Stamped and printed concrete imitating natural stone.

As for the use of each type of decorative concrete, their purposes are different. Colored decorative concrete is most often used to make paving slabs to make them more expressive. Artistic concrete used for finishing buildings. Moreover, all kinds of figures are made from it for landscaping the garden area. But concrete that imitates stone is also used to make plinths, facade tiles or blind areas. If you want to make decorative concrete with your own hands, then you should familiarize yourself in detail with the technology of laying it. We will look at how you can make a garden path with your own hands, as well as the rules for laying stamped decorative concrete.

Process Basics

Create an invoice concrete surface, which will imitate stone, brick or other material, can be done using the following techniques: stencil mixture, stamped mortar and sprayed mixture.

Now let's consider technological processes each of the listed methods for producing decorative concrete:

Spraying method.

It is used in cases where there is a need to imitate stone, brick or other images on the wall. During the application process, a special acid dye is used, which is laid on the surface in several layers. This leads to a reaction of the solution with dyes, which results in the desired color. Color shade can be supplemented with a variety of effects. The dye is applied to the surface using several methods, in particular, the spraying method. To create a beautiful texture or apply a particular image, you can use stencils when spraying.

Stencil method.

This method is called “stencil mixture”. It is applied to the surface using a pre-prepared stencil made of paper or other material.

Stamping method.

This method is unique of its kind. Stamped solution, as it is also called, is applied to a wet surface, consisting of a colored fixative, a protective mixture and hydrophobic additives. All this is necessary to ensure that the stamp used does not stick to the concrete. Before stamping concrete, you need to make sure that the surface is perfectly smooth. The template or matrix must remain on the concrete until it dries completely. After removing the stamp, the surface must be thoroughly impregnated with a special impregnation, which acts as additional protection. But before applying it, the surface must be thoroughly washed to remove all kinds of substances that were used during the work process.

So, now we invite you to consider the process of making garden paths from decorative printed concrete.

Garden paths know-how!

Decorative printed concrete is excellent remedy for creating garden paths, which can replace conventional paving slabs. Unlike its analogues, decorative concrete is much cheaper, so you should take this method of treating garden paths seriously. It should be noted that such concrete has the ability to withstand temperature changes from -50°C to +50°C. At the same time, during the freezing process, it does not slip under the wheels and feet. Moreover, it does not fade when exposed to ultraviolet rays. On average, it can survive about three hundred cycles of thawing and, accordingly, freezing. So, let's look at how to make garden paths from decorative printed concrete step by step.

First of all, you need to assemble all the following tools and only then get started:

• roller,
• flutz (flat brush),
• protective impregnation,
• hard brush,
• texture matrix,
• disconnector,
• color fixer,
• roller,
• concrete mix,
• corner iron,
• aluminum smoother,
• vibrating screed,
• polyethylene film,
• reinforcing fiber.

Preparation

The first step is to make sure the quality of the cement. If the cement is of poor quality, it can cause cracks to appear on the surface of the path. The grade of concrete must be at least 300. Additives in the form of a plasticizer must be present. The installation process must be carried out at a temperature not lower than +5°C. If all these parameters are met, then you can start working.

The first step is marking. To do this, you can use wooden pegs and rope. If this is not possible, then you can simply draw a mark on the surface of the earth with the sharp end of a stick.

Work with soil

If the path is intended for walking, then it is enough to remove 150 mm of soil. If you plan to drive a car, then you need to remove 200 mm of soil. Next, the formwork is placed along the entire length of the path. A 100-150 mm layer of crushed stone and sand is evenly poured onto the bottom, which must be compacted well. Then a polyethylene film is laid. An overlap of 100 mm must be made at the joints. At the very end, reinforcement is performed using a metal mesh or reinforcing fabric.

Concrete works

As mentioned above, pouring concrete must be carried out at a certain temperature and always in dry weather. In the process of making concrete, it is possible and even necessary to use reinforcing polypropylene fiber. It will prevent cracks from appearing on the surface of the track.

Preparation of concrete mixture: To do this, you must use the following components: 1 part PC grade 400, 3 parts granite crushed stone preferably with a fraction of 5/20, 3 parts sand, mandatory plasticizer C-3-0.5% (aqueous solution), as well as polypropylene fiber 0.6 kg per 1m 3.

When the concrete mixture is ready, it must be poured evenly into the formwork. It is compacted using a vibrating screed. Next, you need to roll the roller over the surface of the concrete. This will allow the large filler to settle down and the small filler to rise to the top. Using an aluminum trowel, the concrete surface is thoroughly smoothed. At the very end, you need to go around the entire perimeter of the formwork with a corner trowel.

Applying a decorative layer

At this stage of work, a colored fixative is applied. There should be no excess concrete on the surface. Using the manual scattering method, a fixative is applied to the surface, which is then smoothed with an aluminum trowel. This process dissipates 70% of the fixative. Only after smoothing the surface with an angle trowel is the remaining 30% of the fixer applied, which is smoothed with a steel trowel.

Note! According to technology, before applying the texture, the surface should be coated thin layer disconnector.

Drawing

This is done using texture matrices. This process should be carried out as soon as possible, before the concrete sets. The texture matrix is ​​laid along the entire length of the platform along the entire formwork. To ensure that all lines are accurate and do not break at the joints, each matrix should be pressed well by pressing hands, feet or a tamper. But it’s important not to overdo it here. The pressure should be applied evenly over the entire area.

Washing and applying a protective layer

After two days, it is necessary to remove the remains of the disconnector from the surface. To do this, you can use a long-bristled brush. Afterwards, the entire area should be thoroughly rinsed using a stiff brush. When the concrete surface has dried, a layer of protective acrylic impregnation is applied. This can be done using a roller.

Note! To prevent the appearance of uncontrolled shrinkage cracks, it is recommended to saw through the concrete with a seam cutter or grinder. The thickness of the cut should be 1/3 of the total thickness of the concrete. If the thickness is small, then the number of seams should be larger and closer to each other.

So, we looked at the sequence of work on how to make decorative printed concrete as a sidewalk path.

Stamped concrete. A breakthrough in art!

Stamped decorative concrete is no less unique of its kind. In order to do the work with your own hands to make it, you will need the following tools and building materials:

• spray,
• color mixture,
• stamp with shapes,
• delimiter,
• concrete hardener,
• knocker,
• putty knife,
• strip for leveling the surface,
• brush.

This concrete must be manufactured in accordance with all existing requirements. The most important requirement applies to the concrete mass - it must be monolithic. This is what will ensure a strong, tight and high-quality construction. Also, the surface should not have any cracks or chips. Moreover, to achieve the best result when producing stamped decorative concrete, it is best to use dry adhesive mixtures based on white cement.

Note! The cement must contain a plasticizer. It will give the structure strength and also prevent cracks.

There is one more requirement regarding the mixture used. If it is applied to a vertical surface, it cannot be prepared manually. This may affect the quality of the stamping. Immediately before starting work, the surface must be degreased and cleaned. As for the work itself, it can be divided into several stages:

Preparation

As mentioned above, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned. If this stage is treated carelessly, then it will be difficult to put stamps. If the wall surface has cracks or dents, they should be puttied. Afterwards it must be carefully treated with a primer. After drying, make sure that the primer does not leave a slippery film. Ideally, you should use a primer that contains adhesive. If the surface is not very smooth, then you will need a primer for problem surfaces. If there is a large crack, it is recommended to use plaster mesh, which will hold the surface together and prevent the occurrence of new cracks.

Application of adhesive mass

The adhesive mass is applied to the surface after priming. Its thickness can be 10-50 mm. The adhesive mass should be well mixed and have excellent consistency. If there is too much water in it, the stamp will simply stick. This mixture must be laid in several layers, and then given time to dry thoroughly. But don't let it dry out. You can determine its readiness very simply using your fingers. When touching it, the glue should not stretch behind your finger.

Punching process

It is necessary to start the stamping process after some time. On average, after mixing the concrete, 40 - 70 minutes should pass. The mold must be moistened with water, otherwise it will stick. Next, the stamp is pressed into the concrete. You shouldn't pick it up right away. You must be extremely careful when removing it. To ensure that the stamp is printed well, you can use a hammer, which is shaped like a hammer.

This is the sequence in which the process of making stamped decorative concrete is performed. To make you happy with the result, it is extremely important to follow the technology. A variety of shapes can be used as a stamp. They can be made from different materials, for example polyurethane, plastic or silicone. As for its form, there is big choice. For example, sea ​​wave, rhombus, square, basket weaving, imitation animal skin and the like.

So, we have looked at the basic requirements and advantages of decorative concrete. Now you can take a fresh look at concrete, not just as a shapeless gray mass, but as an excellent means of decorating a particular surface. If you have any questions, then you can contact our experts for guidance. Moreover, you can leave your comments on this article if you already have experience in creating decorative concrete with your own hands.

Most people believe that concrete mixture is a shapeless gray mass that is used exclusively for the construction of foundations and rough foundations. However today on suburban areas Products made from architectural concrete (white and colored cement) have begun to appear, which force us to look at the usual building material from a new angle.

Raw materials of this type have good performance characteristics and beautiful color, due to which it is widely used not only in construction, but also in the design of suburban areas (sculptures, birdbaths, paths, fences and much more). Let's take a closer look at the features of decorative concrete.

Characteristics and benefits of architectural cement

Architectural concrete is composite material, which consists of:

• fine and coarse aggregate;
• water;
• cement;
• dyes;
• additives

If we talk about the properties of ready-made (purchased) cement produced in production, then it is worth highlighting the following characteristics:

• degree of whiteness – from 68 to 85%;
• hardening speed - 15 hours (during this time the composition hardens by 65%);
• compressive strength – 38 MPa (after 3 days), 59 MPa (after 4 weeks);
• sediment does not exceed 0.12%;
• frost resistance – F 100 and more;

If we compare architectural concrete with its “gray brother”, white and colored cement differ not only in the speed of hardening, but also in higher strength. The maximum grade of ordinary Portland cement is M500, while white cement M500, as well as decorative cement M600 and M700 are on sale.

In addition, colored and white architectural Portland cement has the following advantages:

• high weather resistance;
• environmental friendliness;
• sulfate resistance;
• increased dispersibility and water resistance;
• high resistance to abrasion.

From this material you can make the most complex designs any shape and size. However, these positive properties directly depend on compliance with the technology for preparing such a solution.

Architectural concrete manufacturing technology

In the production of decorative building materials, only the highest quality Portland cement is used (not lower than M400). Also, reinforcing fiberglass is often added to the composition, which increases the strength of finished structures.

If we talk about the features of making the mixture, then everything depends on the future concrete product:

• Small architectural forms of concrete (MAFs) are made from material obtained by vibration compaction. Fine filler is used.
• To obtain a textured surface, vibration casting is used and marble or granite chips are used.
• To enhance the decorative effect, light or dark sand is used.
• To obtain a pronounced structure, ceramic, glass, marble, basalt and granite particles are added to the mixture.
• To enhance the texture of the material, special plasticizing additives are used, which slow down the hardening of the mixture.

If you want to make decorative concrete with your own hands, the video will help you in this matter.

The composition of the mixture, when prepared independently, is as follows:

• 3 parts sifted sand;
• 3 parts of crushed stone (fraction no more than 5-20 mm);
• plasticizing additive for dry matter (for example, C-3 0.5%);
• Portland cement M400;
• fiber fiber (preferably polypropylene) 0.6 kg/m3.

To obtain high quality architectural concrete, it is very important to pay attention to surface finishing. With high-quality processing using adhesive chemical compositions you will get an original pattern and structure.

The design of concrete is carried out in several ways during its laying.

Sputtering

This method should be used for vertical surfaces. Requires a spray bottle and acid dye. The paint is applied layer by layer on concrete mortar until the surface acquires the desired color.

If we are talking not about small textured shapes, but about large flat surfaces, then it is most convenient to use special stencils for applying the coloring composition. They can be purchased at finished form(plastic ones are suitable for reusable use) or make them yourself (even from paper).

You can “paint” brickwork using the same method.

Stamping

Polyurethane dies are most often used for architectural concrete. DIY stamped or printed concrete is made using rubber or silicone matrices. These stamps are pre-coated with pigment and moisture-resistant additives and pressed into a soft concrete mixture.

After the decorative printed concrete has hardened, the matrices are removed and the surface is coated with protective impregnations. This method is suitable for both vertical and horizontal bases.

This architectural concrete can be used to make a wide variety of products.

Application areas of decorative concrete

If we talk about the use of white cement, today it is used for:

• finishing of facades and interior walls premises;
• production of paving slabs imitating natural stone;
• preparation of adhesives, cement-lime mixtures and grouts;
• manufacturing decorative elements, columns, steps, fences, borders and much more.

Let's consider what products from white cement can be made on your country plot.

Paths

Most often, architectural concrete is used for garden paths. To do this, you can go two ways:

1. Make from decorative material slabs and lay them as finished products.
2. Pour cement mortar into the solid formwork and use stamps.

The second option is more popular.

To make a track, you must complete the following steps:

1. Mark the area.
2. Remove the top layer of soil, up to 10 cm deep.
3. Install the formwork (if you plan to build reinforced concrete paths, then lay the reinforcing mesh).
4. Fill with crushed stone.
5. Pour in the cement mortar, smooth and compact it.

To obtain relief surface, it is better to use the stamping method of decorating concrete. To do this, wait until the surface of the track dries and lay the prepared matrices on it.

Additionally, the path can be decorated with pieces of colored glass or marble.

Fences

From this durable material often made decorative fences made of concrete, which will enclose the entire area or a separate area within the yard. Such style solutions are extremely popular today.

For such a construction you will need to make decorative fence posts and other elements (sectional slabs and caps) the desired shape and size. Sectional panels can be made either single-sided or double-sided. Also, decorative concrete pillars can be prefabricated or solid, with or without patterns.

To apply a pattern or pattern to a decorative concrete fence, it is most convenient to use the stamping method, according to the same principle as for a garden path.

Sculptures

In suburban areas you can often find unusual figures, mushrooms, flowers and animals. Such decorative concrete products require a lot of patience and sculpting skills.

To make such figures you need:

• Form the frame of the future sculpture using reinforcement and a welding machine.
• Wrap the "skeleton" metal mesh overlap (if the sculpture remains hollow inside).
• Sculpt small parts from concrete.
• Apply matrices or mosaic elements to the drying solution.
• Paint the product by spraying pigment.

Wall decoration

Cement plaster walls are another option for using white concrete. Thanks to this coating you will protect the building from frost and increase the thermal conductivity of the wall panels.

To do the work yourself:

1. Clean the surface of the walls from dust and dirt (if necessary, rinse and dry them).
2. Cover the walls with primer several times and wait until it is completely dry.
3. Apply decorative plaster with a spatula.
4. Execute artistic carving, if necessary.
5. Treat the walls with a paint composition using stamps or spraying.

As you can see, decorative cement can be used for a variety of purposes, from wall decoration to amazing colorful sculptures.

Plastic and durable architectural concrete was created as a material to solve aesthetic problems. Interior decoration premises, industrial and handmade elements and items of interior and exterior - the main purpose of archstone is also called architectural concrete, the composition of which differs in many respects from the composition of the usual mortar. Architectural concrete is resistant to deep temperature fluctuations, tolerates high humidity well and is not subject to weathering, therefore, as a material for finishing facades and architectural elements of buildings, it perfectly performs its functions.

In terms of plasticity properties, architectural concrete is similar to plasticine - it can be used to form any three-dimensional geometric figure complex shapes for decorating a construction site. Stucco or columns are a great example. exterior finishing facades. Archstone perfectly imitates natural wildstone, and such a replacement saves costs on decorative finishing and visual design of the building. Plastering and finishing composition architectural concrete is sold in specialized construction stores or prepare it yourself according to the recipe given in the article.

The components of any decorative concrete solution indicate its functional purposes and nature of application. The basis of concrete is cement as a binder, crushed stone, sand, granite or marble gravel as fillers, stabilizing additives and other plasticizers. Mixing components in the required proportion gives different results to the use of concrete in for different purposes. One of the types of concrete is architectural concrete mixture.

Concrete for decorating facades and architectural elements of buildings is constantly used to decorate construction sites or the adjacent area. This is a variety artificial stone, consisting of cement-sand mortar and improving additives.

Shades of archstone are white or light gray, but by adding coloring components, any colors can be generated. The texture of the material can also be changed by adding fillers such as crushed stone, pebbles, gravel or shells. Other distinctive properties architectural materials from ordinary concrete:

1. Flat, fine-grained structure that can be sanded to perfection;
2. The hygroscopicity of architectural concrete is very low, which means... That the material does not undergo carbonization processes, therefore the integrity and strength of concrete is guaranteed throughout the entire period of operation;
3. Does not fade under the influence of UV radiation, does not change external qualities and physical properties under the influence of atmospheric processes;
4. High strength and resistance to low temperatures;
5. The technology for working with architectural stone is simpler, and the material itself is more plastic than ordinary concrete, which allows you to create decorative elements and highly artistic products different forms and sizes.

The ratio of parts of sand (P), cement M-400 and M-500 (C) and crushed stone (SH) for preparing concrete mortar is reflected in the tables:

Advantages and negative properties of archstone

Advantages:

1. Strength, ductility, immunity to weather conditions;
2. Low cost of manufacturing elements and preparing the solution;
3. Inorganic additives increase service life and protect against destruction.

Flaws:

1. The use of decorative elements of heavy decorative concrete requires additional strengthening of walls and ceilings;
2. On houses made of wood and lightweight concrete, creating decorations from archstone is not recommended due to the large weight of the decorations;
3. Installation of decor on facades requires significant labor costs and the use of special equipment;
4. Difficult to form small decorative details and elements that affect the overall artistic expression building;
5. Slow operating speed – hardening cement-sand mixture in a special form occurs on days 1–2;
6. The complex geometry of the decor requires precise dimensions and careful adjustment of parts.

Architectural artificial stone is divided into groups according to their functional purpose:

1. Decorative white concrete is used to decorate the front part of buildings, spacious rooms with high ceilings, decorated elements of architectural facades that do not experience significant weight and mechanical loads;
2. Lightweight white concrete is used to create decorative forms of light weight - panels, tiles, stairs, elements with imitation of natural stone.

Often decorative surface does not so much replicate the texture of natural stone, but is used as a material with characteristics much better than those of stone. Thanks to the composition decorative stone Concrete can be used to create decor that is close in texture to natural materials:

1. The filler is quartz sand of natural origin, giving the surface the texture of a stone surface. Decorative items made from concrete with this filler are called “reclaimed sandstone.”
2. The binder in the mixture is premium quality Portland cement (for example, PC500) of gray or white color, without impurities.
3. Dyes are added to ensure that the product replicates the texture and shades of the natural product as accurately as possible. wild stone. Coloring pigments are added when mixing the solution so that the future product is evenly colored in the total mass. There is no need to additionally paint such parts; such decor does not fade under the sun, does not peel off during use, and microcracks do not appear on the surface. The closest possible texture of natural stone involves the use of dyes that provide natural shades.
4. Only purified water is added to architectural concrete so that the quality of the products is not subject to temporary changes. It is important to correctly calculate the required volume of water.
5. Modifiers and plasticizers, antifoaming agents, adhesives (adhesives), frost-resistant substances. The quantitative and qualitative composition of additives will be different for each specific batch, and depends on the shape and physical and operational characteristics of the product, and on the technology for molding architectural elements. The addition of plasticizers and stabilizers ensures an increase in the strength of the product, resistance to mechanical and shock loads, and contrasting changes in humidity and temperature.

Formation

Architectural concrete products are formed in several ways:

1. Tamping, or stuffing, is the process of creating rigid decorative elements by hand. The solution is poured and compacted with a special tamper. Stuffing is used to form geometrically complex decorations. The disadvantages of this method are a high percentage of defects and low strength of products.
2. Using a vibropress or molds. This method of molding architectural elements is suitable for making paving slabs, paving stones, and simple decorative forms. If the technology is followed, the output will be high-strength products.
3. Pressing is the formation of thin-walled, high-strength decorative elements using hydraulic presses and molds.

How to prepare architectural concrete yourself

To properly prepare a high-quality working solution, you need to mix quartz sand and Portland cement, add coloring agents and modifiers in a certain proportion indicated above. Portland cement should be white or light-colored gray and the highest quality - these are the M500 or DO400 brands. It is not recommended to use gray cement, as the output will be dull, unsaturated shades.

The filler is purified quartz sand, crushed granite or fine marble. In order for concrete to have a specific shade, colored coloring components are added to the solution in the form of liquid or dry powdery substances. Pigment dye is added in a ratio of 3/100 to obtain more saturated colors, the ratio is maintained at 5/100 or more.

The technology for preparing decorative artificial stone is as follows:

1. Dry ingredients must be sifted through a fine metal sieve with a mesh size of 1.5 x 1.5 mm;
2. Portland cement and quartz sand are mixed dry;
3. Fine marble (granite) chips or dust are added to the dry mixture;
4. Coloring pigments of the desired colors are added;
5. The dry mixture is mixed until smooth;
6. A depression is made in the dry composition, into which purified water is added.

The volumetric quantity of the working composition is determined by the brand of Portland cement. So, for one volumetric part of M500 cement, three parts of sand and two parts of water are added. The quality of the resulting solution is also determined manually: you need to strongly squeeze a little solution in your hand. If water flows between your fingers after squeezing, add sand. If, when you unclench your fist, the composition appears loose and crumbles, add water.

In addition to the main components of the solution for archstone, plasticizers and modifying substances must be added to its composition. Plasticizers give plasticity to fresh, uncured mortar, increase frost resistance and resistance to any weather conditions, adhesives and antifoaming agents improve the quality of the product. The proportions in which modifiers and plasticizers should be added are determined by the functional purpose of the product and its manufacturing technology.

Architectural concrete updated: April 28, 2018 by: Artyom

The article was prepared with the participation of specialists DOMASC CONCRETE company

Paving stones, paving slabs, clinker, natural stone – there are plenty of finishing materials, but there is no limit to perfection, and today all these surfaces can be imitated using concrete. This technology allows you to accurately recreate any texture, while the physical characteristics of the coating are not inferior, but in a number of points they are superior to the simulated surface. With the basics of technology and important nuances The specialists of the DOMASK CONCRETE company will help you figure it out, and they will answer the most current issues FORUMHOUSE users.

• The history of printed concrete.
• Scope of application, advantages and disadvantages of printed concrete.
• Printed concrete technology.
• Professional answers to user questions.

The history of printed concrete

Printed concrete began to be used in the middle of the last century in the USA. Enterprising Americans have developed a technology for maximally hardening the concrete surface and giving it special properties so that military aviation runways can last as long as possible. But the invention was quickly appreciated by urban planning contractors, and with minor improvements, they introduced the concept of decorative printed concrete for use on almost any site.

Printed concrete, otherwise called stamped concrete (concrete is produced using stamps) or pressed concrete, differs from ordinary concrete by decorative relief embossing applied to the surface. In this case, the pattern can repeat natural or artificial material, be it stone, wood, paving stones or cracked soil. In addition to its visual appeal, printed concrete is characterized by increased wear resistance, since the printing process uses special materials, as well as protective impregnations and varnishes for concrete.

Scope of application, advantages and disadvantages of coating

This material is universal - it can be laid on various grounds, use outdoors and indoors. In the private sphere, the most common paving with printed concrete is garden paths, patios, recreation areas, blind areas, stairs, gazebos and terraces. It is practically indispensable during restoration, as it allows you to imitate all styles and materials that cannot be found today.

The coating has no limitations, as it can withstand mechanical stress, vehicle loads and temperature changes from – 50 to + 50⁰С.

But only if the technology of the device is followed, so we’ll figure it out.

Fedor MeshkorudnikovDirector of the company DOMASK BETON

There is no alternative to printed concrete in decorating horizontal surfaces on the street (paths, parking lots, blind areas, sidewalks, platforms). This monolithic slab– no failures, variety of textures and colors, speed of installation, strength, durability, frost resistance.

The advantages of the coating include the following properties:

• Solidity - due to the absence of adhesive seams resulting from paving piece materials, the canvas does not require regular restoration.
• Environmental friendliness - no matter how hackneyed this concept may be, concrete does not contain chemical components that can be released into the environment when heated, as is the case with asphalt derivatives and similar coatings.
• Decorativeness - how the path or steps will look depends only on personal preferences; a large selection of shapes invites flight of fancy.
• Durability - monolithic fabric does not absorb moisture, therefore, does not crack when frozen, the dyes are resistant to abrasion and direct sunlight. Properly installed stamped concrete will last at least 15 years, and if cared for, even more.

Stamped concrete is resistant to wear and weather, but like stone, tile or pavers, it scratches easily when it comes in contact with metal.

If the car has studded wheels, characteristic marks may remain.

IlyaIvanov

About printed concrete. The quality of the paths is very good, but the parking lot is a problem. Everything is fine with the stove, but I drive under a canopy with a turn, exit is the same, and both cars are on spikes in winter. In the place where the front wheels turn every day, the entire surface is covered with scratches. It is clear that the same thing would happen in the version of natural stone or paving stones, but the fact remains a fact. Please note that if you will be turning the steering wheel and riding on spikes on the site, you need to choose some kind of coating such as fine gravel with an adhesive base.

Professionals offer another solution to the problem if you really want just such a parking lot.

Fedor Meshkorudnikov

The only solution is to pour strips 70-80 cm wide under the wheels, which can later be dismantled and new ones poured.

And on paths, and in parking lots, and in any other place, the coating is also sensitive to chemical reagents, which should not be forgotten either.

Printed concrete technology

Despite some nuances, the manufacturing technology of decorative printed concrete itself is not particularly complicated. However, only strict adherence to work technology and high-quality materials that meet the specific application will allow you to obtain an attractive, strong and durable coating.

Preparing the base

The first stage is standard - sampling the soil layer, leveling, compacting, creating a slope, adding a drainage layer of crushed stone of a fraction of 20-40 mm with leveling and compaction. Then waterproofing is carried out, since saturation with moisture from the soil is contraindicated for printed concrete. For this purpose, they lay on top of the crushed stone plastic film. The final stage of preparation is the installation of formwork and reinforcement of the base (taking into account the minimum protective layer), the diameter of the reinforcement and the mesh cell depend on the expected loads. On sandy soils a layer of geotextile under the crushed stone may be required.

Requirements for mortar and installation

Preferred concrete of a grade no less than M300-350 is preferred; if you make concrete yourself on site, then use Portland cement (400-500) with the addition of fiber and plasticizers. Concrete laying is standard; the surface must be leveled, compacted, crushed stone deposited and smoothed with concrete trowels.

Decoration

When there is no excess moisture on the surface, a colored fixative is applied (by scattering method) in 2-3 layers to harden the surface and give the desired color. Each layer is rubbed into freshly laid concrete with trowels until the surface becomes one color, strictly observing the consumption - 2.5 kg/m² for dark colors, 3.5 kg/m² for light colors. Next, a colored hydrophobic release agent is sprayed on so that the form does not stick to the concrete and gives a second color to the surface, which remains in the seams and recesses. Using the stamping method, impressions are made using forms until the concrete can be pressed with a finger, gradually moving the forms over the entire area of ​​the canvas.

After two days, excess disconnector is removed from the concrete by rinsing with plain water from a hose and helping with a brush.

Protective coatings are applied after the concrete has dried, but work at high temperatures and below +5⁰ is not allowed.

Operating mode

As already noted, updating the protective layer takes 2 years, but there are a couple of nuances:

• The coating can withstand pedestrian loads after 4 days, but only after 14 days.
• Do not remove snow or dirt with a metal tool.

1. Reinforcement (anti-crack)
2. Base (concrete M350)
3. Color fixative
4. Hybrophobic release agent (to prevent the form from sticking, it additionally gives color to the seams and recesses)
5. Texture shape/stamp
6. Protective covering(impregnation and varnish for waterproofing, richer color and wet stone effect)

Answers from professionals

Portal members are interested in various situations: construction of expansion joints or original use of a fixative.

hmk2003

I'm interested in the technology for constructing expansion joints, and whether it is possible to simply create flat surface concrete, garage entrance, etc.

Fedor Meshkorudnikov

To avoid cracks, to relieve stress, cut expansion joints joint cutter or grinder with diamond blade to a depth of 1/3 of the concrete thickness, with 3x3 m cards, with a layer thickness of 8-12 cm, paths are cut every one and a half meters. You can get a smooth colored surface; some people do this by simply rubbing the colored fixer into freshly laid concrete.

The majority of users who are just looking at the technology or who have already tried it and were dissatisfied with the result are concerned about the reasons for the destruction of printed concrete. According to Fedor, there may be several of them.

Violation of device technology:

• Lack of waterproofing (film and impregnation). Regardless of the type of surface, when laying decorative concrete outdoors, it must be protected by a layer of insulation both below and above.
• Work in bad weather conditions (cold, hot, damp).
• Untimely application of the fixer: if the concrete has “set”, the composition does not penetrate into the deep layers, binding only the surface, which leads to peeling after the first winter.
• Insufficient slope - water stagnates, spoils the view, in places of accumulation it gradually seeps into the top layer and, as it becomes saturated, begins to destroy the concrete. The technology requires a slope of 1.5 cm for each linear meter canvases.
• Absence or insufficient reinforcement - the concrete slab will begin to deform.