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Exterior home improvement projects

What To Consider When Choosing The Best Concrete Resurfacer

October 14, 2022
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Concrete does not age gracefully and that is for certain. Whether it’s your walkway, driveway, rear patio, or another place, the concrete around your house will undoubtedly begin to show its age. To swiftly repair a cracked concrete surface, most individuals typically fill cracks and “spot patch” certain areas. Your concrete will lose some of its attractiveness as a result of frequent crack and patch repairs over time. 

If this describes the situation around your home or the home of a customer, you should consider concrete resurfacing. It’s one of the simplest, most effective techniques to restore the new-looking appearance of concrete. Some of the best companies offering concrete resurfacing are present in Aurora, IL

All resurfacers are not created equal. Their drying times, bonding abilities, and abrasion resistance can all differ greatly, making them acceptable for some projects but unsuitable for others. Continue reading to discover more about these and other important qualities of the best concrete resurfacers. 

Temperature Tolerance 

Knowing what temperatures concrete can withstand during installation is crucial because most concrete surfaces are outside. To guarantee that the concrete resurfacer dries properly, most manufacturers stipulate that the temperature must be above 50 degrees Fahrenheit both during installation and for 24 hours after. 

The amount of time the user has to work with the concrete before it sets and becomes dry enough to move depends on the temperature. Concrete will typically dry more quickly as the temperature rises. Use cold water to slow down drying if the temperature is above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Most manufacturers advise using warm water to decrease the drying time if the temperature is below 60 degrees. Before applying the resurfacer, be careful to review the recommended temperature range on the packaging. 

Bonding Properties 

A concrete resurfacer must adhere strongly to the surface it will be applied over in order to prevent displacement and the need for subsequent repairs. The majority of concrete resurfacers adhere to concrete extremely well. When restoring a subfloor, bonding properties are crucial to ensure that the new flooring laid over the resurfacer will stick.   

Drying Period

When selecting a concrete resurfacer, ensure the drying time is appropriate for the project. Fast-drying concrete may be convenient since it allows the paved area to be put back into use more quickly, but it also necessitates that the user works more quickly before the concrete becomes too hard to spread. Consider the amount of time it takes for the concrete to set and dry, so that it may be used for traffic.The drying time is often indicated by concrete manufacturers as minutes or hours. Although the concrete is too hard to modify once it has hardened, it is not yet ready for usage. Within 1 to 2 hours of mixing, the majority of concrete resurfacers set. To receive foot traffic, a resurfacer may need to wait 6 to 24 hours, and many days to receive car traffic. 

Application 

There are two varieties of concrete resurfacer: dry, which needs to be combined with water before use, and premixed. Premixed resurfacers are more convenient than dry resurfacers, but they are often more expensive. You can also modify the cement’s consistency with dry resurfacers to meet your demands. 

The most common method of applying concrete resurfacer is to mix the product with water (if necessary), pour it on the old existing concrete, and distribute it using a squeegee. To ensure strong adhesion between the old and new concrete, carefully clean the surface before applying the resurfacer.  

If you want to increase the curb value of your home and give your property a facelift, you should consider choosing the right siding replacement. It is very simple really. The value of a property is directly proportional to its beauty and attractiveness in the minds of potential buyers. If you do your job right, it is possible that you will be able to get just what you need and want for your house. 

Apart from that, a neat and clean look will make you feel ‘right at home’ so to speak. You can change the siding of your home if it has become old and worn out. Alternatively, you can do it just to change the look of your property. In any case, you will need to go through various options regarding colors and choice of material before you decide what is ideal for your home. Let us see how you too can give your home a much-needed facelift by selecting the ideal siding for it:

Select the right materials

Many, if not most siding related products are designed in such a way that they strongly mimic real wood siding. Yes, original wood siding is also available, but it is not as long-lasting as the many different siding materials currently in vogue today. Add to that the fact that real wood is now very expensive. However, a veritable plethora of siding materials can replicate the look and feel of real cedar siding. Some of the more common siding options include the following:  

siding
Photo by Zac Gudakov on Unsplash 

Vinyl

This is arguably one of the single most common materials available today for the external décor of your home. It is a low-cost long-life option consisting of polymer-based plastics. It is available in many different sizes, thicknesses, and qualities. There are lots of colors and textures available. The cost comes to around $9-10 or so per square foot which makes it quite affordable. Apart from that, vinyl also allows a lot of insulation behind it. It is rot proof and many contractors also offer insect repellent vinyl sidings. However, it won’t last more than 10-15 years and it is seldom fireproof. 

Composite board

This is a very eco-friendly form of siding and it is manufactured from recycled wood pulp. The different sides of the wood are heavily compressed and then stuck with powerful adhesives. Composite is available in just about any color you like. In fact, if it is available in a paint store, you are likely to find it with your composite siding vendor as well.

 If the paint starts to chip, just repaint it all over again instead of swapping the whole thing. It is quite easy to install and can be treated with insect repellent. However, it is not only not fireproof but quite combustible as well. If you live in a rain prone area it might not be suitable because the wood can swell and burst. 

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Photo by Rendy Novantino on Unsplash 

Aluminum

This is also a very common type of siding and it is widely available in many different designs and colors. This siding is built to last. Even if you don’t spend much on maintaining it, you can rest assured that it will easily last for decades.  It can also handle inclement weather such as violent thunderstorms, snow, and hail. If you feel that it is looking under the weather, you can simply have it repainted. If an area becomes chipped or dented, you can easily repair it or even replace the affected section with a new one without any difficulty. 

It is considered to be one of the most fireproof sidings around, which makes it very safe. Since it is painted after installation, you can change the color once you check a sample piece or two and go for something you really like. However, it is expensive and there are not as many designs or textures available as various other kinds of siding systems. 

Conclusion

There are many siding options for your consideration. You will have to research the various options till you find something that is just right for your home and the weather conditions in your area. Good luck!

Spending time on your patio is one of the best ways to relax and recuperate after a long week. This is where you can welcome your guests, hang out with your family, or regain your inner peace. However, not just any patio will be good enough for all these things, which is why you need to spice up your patio from time to time. Doing this might not always be easy or simple, but it’s something you just have to do. Introducing unique features might be one of the ways to go and a solution that will take your patio to the next level. If this is something you’d like to do as well, here are a few ideas you could explore.

Unique patio furniture

If you want to be able to spend time on your patio, you’re going to need some furniture first. There are lots of materials, designs, and ideas you could explore, and finding your perfect fit could take some time. But, it’s all going to be worth it in the end, and your patio will become the most comfortable spot at your home. Start with some comfortable chairs that will allow you to spend hours on your patio without risking lower back pain. After that, find some matching sofas, and finish everything off with a unique coffee table. Don’t forget to maintain your furniture in the future as well, and try to keep it as good as new in the years to come too.

Unique patio lighting

If you want to be able to use this space in the evening as well and throw dinner parties on your patio, you’ll need some proper lighting too. There are lots of lighting ideas you can explore, and not all of them will work for you. That’s why you need to think outside the box and find solutions that are unique and cool. String lights are among the most popular and appealing ideas at the moment, so look into that idea first. Also, check out those solar lights that are perfect for patios and other outdoor spaces. Finally, don’t be afraid to install a massive chandelier above your patio, and making it more appealing than it’s ever been.

Unique patio décor

Even though most people focus on interior space when decorating their homes, the fact is that their patio deserves some love and attention as well. Your simple everyday décor won’t be good enough, though, so start thinking outside the box. Adding a water feature might be a great start because a small fountain could do wonders for the appeal of your patio. Also, adding some greenery is crucial as well, especially if you’re a fan of nature. From a few simple pots to decorative plantation shutters that will take the entire space to a whole new level, there are lots of ideas to consider. Finally, add some scented candles and light them before your guests arrive.

Unique patio flooring

This is probably not an idea all homeowners are going to love, but investing time and money into your patio flooring is one of the best ideas you could explore. Again, there are lots of different ideas you can look into, depending on the size of your patio and your aesthetic preferences. Painting your patio, installing new concrete, replacing the tiles, applying a new stencil or introducing some reclaimed wood into the mix are just some of the ways to make your patio welcoming and appealing.

 

Exploring various unique features that will make your patio more special than ever isn’t hard at all. It’s all about finding the right designs and ideas, and turn them into reality as soon as possible!

Owning a backyard is not enough — there always needs to be something that makes it stand out more. Some people decide for complicated floral arrangements or endless rows of trees and bushes, while others prefer next to nothing. Whatever you like, it’s a fact that your backyard needs some care and possibly a full makeover. If you don’t know what to do, and there is plenty of space around, we suggest a gazebo. Aside from looking beautiful, a gazebo can also be used as a yard focal point which means that, if you do it right, it’ll automatically attract the attention of your guests any time of year. So, here are some tips on turning your gazebo into a cozy and elegant oasis:

Add some hanging potted plants

There’s nothing more enjoyable than sitting on your gazebo on a warm spring evening and smelling the surrounding flowers while sipping some cold ice tea. The quickest way to decorate your gazebo is to add hanging potted plants. You can play with various colours and sizes, so feel free to mix different types of flowers until you find the combination that you like. Having potted plants around can make your gazebo look more homely and elegant especially during the spring and summer. If you prefer other floral arrangements, you can add regular flower pots or even rose bushes. 

Paint your gazebo white

A white gazebo will bring a dash of elegance and sophistication to your backyard, but also, make it look bigger. On sunny days, your white gazebo will look extra comfy, and chic with some stylish outdoor sun-blocking features that will also bring shade to your backyard oasis. White can add more light into your gazebo especially when it’s less sunny outside, but you still want to spend some time in your backyard. If you want to spruce it up a bit, you can add matching white chairs and a table so you’ll have a place to sit and hang out with your friends. For those who want some privacy, getting a white breezy curtain will protect your gazebo from rain and make you feel cozy and a bit isolated whenever you need some privacy.

Make your gazebo a winter sanctuary

Who says gazebo should only be used during the warm months? There are many gazebo covers and even though they don’t look much elegant, they can still be used if you don’t have anything else. The best option would be to insulate your gazebo with sliding glass walls, but sometimes even that’s not enough. However, there are ways to make your gazebo feel warm even if it’s cold outside: get a fire feature that will keep you safe from cold even in lower temperatures and check out these helpful tips for loft insulation problems, for additional inspiration. You can then snuggle in your armchair, wrapped in your fave blanket with a cup of tea or a glass of mulled wine.

Get some Chinese lanterns for an ultimate autumn feel

Autumn is the time when everything becomes red, yellow, brown and orange, so adding Chinese lanterns that are traditionally autumn-colored is a perfect decor choice. To create an ultimate romantic autumn feel, hang lanterns with different length string, so they’ll look more interesting and unique. If you feel extra crafty, you can create your own lanterns. Besides lanterns, you can also add various fall flowers like garlands, dahlias or orange gerberas. For those who really love autumn, you can also add fall leaves to make your gazebo look ready for the cozy autumn afternoons.

In conclusion, turning your gazebo into a focal point shouldn’t be a one-time project since your gazebo could be redecorated and redesigned for each season, which will only make your time there more memorable and fun. For example, adding a lot of greenery can make it look more stylish and less stripped. Your main design goal should be making your gazebo attention-grabbing and comfortable at the same time.

One of the most common mistakes when renovating and remodelling the home is to focus on the interior alone. Well, those who seek to flip the house or simply boost the value of the property should make an effort to keep both their homes and gardens up-to-date and maintained. It is high time to migrate to the great outdoors, get busy, and feel the gentle breeze and rejuvenating sunlight cuddling you.

Bring the inside out

One of the upgrades that add real value to your home is the addition of the deck or patio. They expand the living area in the most cost-effective way possible. What is more, with the creation of the entertaining area these investments can take the homey comfort to the garden. This is the pure embodiment of the indoor-outdoor lifestyle, which is gaining momentum across the globe. To pull it off, you need some weather-resistant outdoor furniture, as well as a host of throws, pillows and rugs.

outdoor living room for higher property value

Tend the land

Landscaping improves the curb appeal of the house, and adds up to 28% of the value to it. It is a good idea deal with any gaps in planting or pests that want to spoil the outdoor party. Furthermore, trees are essential pillars of any green sanctuary and they also enable the storm water run-off and provide shade, allowing you to save energy. Make sure they are healthy and native to your area. This is also crucial when picking plants and shrubs, but muse on flowers that introduce vivid splashes of colour and picturesque drama into the garden.

A photo of tulips

A fresh start

A fresh coat of paint is one of the most efficient ways to give your property a makeover. Namely, a nice first impression can be amplified with stronger, carefully-chosen paint colours. Revamp the entrance by repainting and upgrading the door or replacing it altogether. Just do not forget to trim the plants, repair the roof, and clear the pathway. Consider purchasing outdoor lighting fittings as well, since it prevents slips and falls, and averts intruders from easily approaching the home. This makes it one of the most wanted features for home buyers and renters.

buckets of paint

Go fancy

Stylish fencing forms a zone of privacy and comfort, keeping pets and kids in, and unwanted guests out. Now, since most fences are installed in the backyard, the impact on the curb appeal is marginal. This is not the say that, however, that it does not affect the value of your real estate. And as for a forward front, you can go for retaining walls and terracing. This way, it is possible to transform useless, sloppy surfaces into something that hinders erosion and run-off, and adds texture and colour. Done right, these features will give your house a face-lift and turn some heads.

garden fence

A fiery embrace

If you want to be able to use the area all-season long, do not fret— there are ways to heat it up. Summon the dancing flames with a fire pit, and ensure the much-needed warmth during colder days. An outdoor fireplace is another enthralling spectacle that transforms the space and makes it more inviting. Also, I would not overlook a wood fired pizza oven can prove to be useful during social gatherings and backyard parties. For a more romantic sensation, you can use antique chandeliers to illuminate the quiet, chilly nights.

Fire pit in your garden

Before and after

Even before crossing the threshold, buyers should be able to witness the splendour of your property. Of course, it is just as important that you enjoy your personal castle more, enhance its value, and customize it so that it reflects your taste. Remember that maintenance and beautifying tasks go a long way in making a positive change in your environment. Put the best face of your property forward, and you will spend the time outside like never before.