4 Ways To Utilise Concrete In Your Renovation

Concrete is so much more than just a structural material. Reserving it for simply foundations and footings would be limiting your renovation’s full potential. Whether it’s a full slab or flooring installation, or just a few accents splashed in to add character, concrete’s polished industrial chic will breathe new life into your home or business.

And, if its aesthetic design features weren’t enough, it has a whole host of benefits that make it a formidable contender when picking materials for your next renovation or upgrade.

Diversity – the are so many options when it comes to both internal and external concrete. Offering a wide range of textures, colours and finishes. There is a style to suit every project.

Durability – the hard-wearing nature of concrete means that it lasts longer and is less prone to ongoing wear and tear. Even if it is damaged, repairs are simple and affordable. Making it a great choice for growing families and businesses alike.

Cost Savings – not only is concrete a more affordable option than many other materials, it often has lower installation and maintenance costs. Plus, when used for flooring in large areas, it can help to minimise utility bills due to its natural heating and cooling properties.

Eco-Friendly – as concrete is manufactured locally, it requires less energy to deliver and install. Also, the materials used in concrete are completely renewable, with old concrete able to be easily recycled or repurposed.

Smart Investment – for all of the reasons listed above, implementing concrete into your next renovation project adds kerb appeal and value to your property long-term.

Here are several ways to incorporate concrete into your next remodel or renovation.

Spice Up Your Kitchen + Bathroom

Upgrading a kitchen or bathroom? Concrete is a versatile material that can be customised to fit any shape and match any colour or style. Its waterproof, mould-resistant and low-maintenance properties make it ideal for broad use within both kitchens and bathrooms. Concrete is also much cheaper per square metre than many of its alternatives for these rooms.

When planning your next bathroom or kitchen renovation, think about concrete and its extensive benefits when considering what materials to incorporate. Concrete is easy to clean (and keep clean), as well as can be graded to minimise slipping. Making it safer for your family or customers.

Easy Clean Entertaining Areas

The popularity of open-plan living, dining and alfresco areas has grown exponentially in recent years. Even more so since Covid lockdowns and peoples’ return to entertaining more at home rather than dining out as much. A trend that is likely to continue for the foreseeable future.

A polished concrete floor throughout these areas not only improves the flow between spaces and adds a high-quality style touch but is sturdy and scratch resistant. Giving it weight as an obvious choice for such high-traffic areas within your home or business. Concrete also brings interior and exterior spaces together, making it perfect for larger indoor/outdoor entertaining spaces in the warmer months.

A quick sweep and an occasional mop keep these surfaces looking like new. No cracks for dirt to get trapped in or grout to gather unsightly grime and mould.

Durable Driveways and High Traffic Surfaces

There’s a reason most carparks are surfaced with concrete and not bricks or pavers – because it’s cheap, long-lasting, and easy to clean and maintain. For the same reason, it is also ideal for your next driveway or accessway upgrade.

Much like internal concrete, external concrete is completely customisable in terms of its finish, look and feel. Many people have been reluctant to use concrete for front-of-home driveways and accessways due to its drab and dated ‘footpath pavement’ style look. This is a very myopic view and the final look and feel of these areas is limited only by your imagination and design preferences, not by the material. So, if you’re considering a new driveway or pedestrian entryway to your home or business, concrete should be on the top of your list.

Low Maintenance Poolside and Backyards

Tiles and pavers can chip, crack and shift with continued use. Concrete is hard-wearing, low maintenance and can be made non-slip. Ideal for any poolside or backyard uses, especially where children or pets are concerned.

And the styling options are endless. Stamped / stencilled, coloured, textured, exposed aggregate, matte or gloss finish. Concrete is the best material to create that luxe poolside vibe you’re going for and will bring function and form, as well as style and elegance, to any backyard area.

To discuss adding concrete to your next home or business renovation, contact the Northern Beaches concreting experts at Aussie All-Stars.