Author: Dave Funguy

4 Interesting Ways Concrete Is Used in Homes

As the most consumed substance in the world after water and the most popular construction material on this planet, concrete has a variety of applications. Commercially, it’s found in drainage systems, sidewalks, roads, runways, bridges, buildings and skyscrapers because of its cost-effectiveness, strength, and ease of use.

Likewise, concrete has a variety of residential applications. Aside from being cheap, strong, and accessible, concrete is an excellent barrier against the heat and the cold, making it a good residential construction material for safety and energy cost purposes. It’s also more versatile than you think, with utilitarian and creative uses at home.

#1 Driveways

Many homeowners prefer driveways made of concrete rather than other materials. Concrete driveways can last anywhere from twenty to over thirty years with periodic maintenance and regular care. Because of this longevity, concrete driveways are more cost-effective than asphalt driveways, even though concrete driveways can cost more to install.

To take care of your concrete driveway, clean it regularly with a gentle detergent and a soft brush. Have an experienced contractor perform maintenance otherwise small cracks will grow larger and deeper. Also, apply a sealant to shield it from staining, corrosion, and damage. Sealants stop the tiny pores in the concrete from absorbing water, salts, and other pollutants.

#2 Decorative Concrete

Many homeowners mistakenly assume that concrete only has practical applications, when concrete can also be stylish. For example, decorative concrete is the art of mixing concrete with other materials to produce a finish that has the best of both worlds. Not only is decorative concrete as attractive as more expensive construction materials, but it has the strength and durability of regular concrete. What’s more, it’s more cost-effective than more traditionally luxurious materials.

That’s why many concrete contractors have expanded their services to include decorative concrete in their portfolio. You can visit Eliteconcrete.ca to learn about such a company that has served its community with its team of contractors for around twenty years, and has earned multiple accolades for its architectural finishes.

• Limestone Finish combines the sleek and stylish look of authentic limestone with the endurance of concrete through the process of mixing and finishing concrete. Not only does this look gorgeous but it’s almost maintenance-free.
• Stamped Concrete uses a sophisticated mixing and finishing technique to give homeowners the classic look of slate or flagstone at a fraction of the cost. The best thing about this finish is that it can be customized to suit any setting.

#3 Accent Walls

One of the easiest ways for homeowners to spice up their living rooms is to add an accent wall. And instead of going for wood, brick, or stone, many homeowners are opting for concrete for an old-school look. Concrete accent walls are easier to install than some other materials and can just as easily be taken down if you change your mind.

#4 Decorative Pieces

Homeowners who aren’t ready to make a large investment but still have the concrete bug use concrete for decorative pieces such as planters, shelves, coffee tables, ashtrays and more. If they’re looking to renovate their kitchen – then they can try a concrete countertop.

There are many interesting ways concrete is used at home. Because of its many great characteristics, the possibilities are endless.

After a long winter, it’s hard to imagine that we’re finally headed toward summer. Only another month or so, and we’ll be complaining about how hot it is!

If you’re like most people, you love the summer weather but also like to escape it with cool, refreshing air conditioning once in a while. To be able to enjoy the heat but retreat indoors with nice cool air is one of the best things about the summer season.

Did you know that it’s highly recommended to give your air conditioning unit a thorough check-up at least once a year? The spring is the best season to do it because it’s just before summer hits so you can get everything prepared just in time. You’ll likely have your AC on most of the time in summer, so you want to get it ready for action.

You’ll definitely want an expert cooling technician to diagnose your AC problems in the spring, but you can also take a look to see if there any issues beforehand. Let’s take a look at what to look for when maintaining your air conditioner.

Clean or Change the Air Filters

Routinely changing or cleaning the air filters in your AC unit will improve its overall efficiency and lifespan. It’s suggested that filters be replaced every month, so be sure to consult your installation and maintenance contractors to find out the exact type you use if you’re unsure.

If you keep the AC on round-the-clock, your filter will require more attention than if you just turn it on every so often. You can clean it with a good vacuum cleaner (take it out of the unit first) and submerge it in water for a few minutes. Always wait until it’s completely dry before putting it back into place.

Filters are subject to a great amount of dust, dirt, pet dander, and other harmful particles. It’s crucial to keep them clean because otherwise, all of those particles will start to float around your home with the cool air that comes from the unit.

Clean the Coils

Your air conditioner’s condenser and evaporator coils collect dirt and dust and over time. All of that dirt will reduce the airflow and insulates the coil, which reduces its ability to absorb heat.

Outdoor condenser coils also become very clogged up and dirty and if the outdoor environment is dusty or if there is foliage close by.

The best solution to this problem is for you to take a look at the coils, assess the situation, and then let your contractor know about it. They’ll be able to clean the air conditioner’s coils if necessary, at your annual maintenance visit.

Clean Any Debris from the Unit

Over time, things such as dirt, leaves, and grass clippings will start to build-up on the outside of your AC unit, and this decreases the system’s capacity and reduces its airflow. Walk around it and trim any plants or shrubs that might be hindering its performance.

The first AC maintenance visit marks the beginning of spring and summer — finally, you can say goodbye to winter!