Traditional and Decorative Flatwork / Cyrus Concrete Construction

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Traditional concrete work and decorative flatwork (stamped and stained) are practical and decorative options for both interiors and exteriors — floors, basements, driveways, garages, patios, sidewalks, etc.

Formerly concrete had an industrial look which limited its versatility, but new techniques for shaping, patterning and coloring concrete have added beauty and personality to its practicality.

Now a driveway with the durability and strength of concrete can have the look and beauty of stone, slate, or granite, and interior flooring can exude the warmth of brick, marble, flagstone, tile or wood. And the color palette for these uses has expanded to include a wide range of attractive looks and variations.

Stamped Concrete

The stamping of three-dimensional patterns into wet concrete has given a new level of beauty and texture to this previously static-looking material. New patterns enable concrete to closely resemble slate, brick, stone and flagstone, wood, granite and marble, and the strength and durability of concrete allows you to have the look of more delicate materials in situations where durability and strength are assets.

Stained Concrete

Acid-etching creates variegated colorings like those found in wood, stone and other natural materials. The uneven shading and irregularities of tone add to the beauty and create a surface that can suit any setting. The colors are available in a wide variety of options and custom colors can provide a personal and unique look.

Concrete Advantages

Durability and Strength — Concrete has been used in construction sites wherever strength and durability are prime concerns. It outlasts wood, brick or stone with minimal upkeep. Concrete absorbs minimal amounts of water so it does not warp or shift in damp climates.
Money-Saving — Decorative flatwork costs much less than the materials for which the stamped concrete is a substitute.
Eco-Friendly and Earth Friendly — Unlike carpeting, concrete does not release toxins into your home or into the atmosphere. Concrete is all natural, and, unlike asphalt, it does not release tar-based residue into the ground.

Concrete Design

You design the look — driveways and walks can coordinate with your home's exterior using a soft, natural palette.

Patios and retaining walls can either blend naturally with their surroundings, or you can choose a contrasting color.

Colored and textured concrete can create a subtle transition from outdoor living spaces (porches, decks) to interior rooms.

No Kidding?

"Flatwork" is the term for any concrete construction that is flat: sidewalks, driveways, patios, and floors.

How Much Does Decorative Flatwork Cost?

It's true that decorative concrete is more expensive than plain concrete. Coloring and texturing concrete to look like brick or flagstone generally doubles the cost.

But using actual brick or flagstone costs as much as two to ten times more than installing decorative concrete. Decorative concrete provides a longer lasting, lower maintenance material that has the decorative look of brick or flagstone at a fraction of the cost.

For more information:

Portland Cement Association: Decorative Floors and Other Flatwork

Cyrus Concrete is a full service construction company specializing in insulating concrete forms, concrete flatwork and race track barrier walls. We are a proud distributor of Reward ICFs and V-Buck window and bracing systems.