Contrary to popular belief, concrete is more than plain gray slabs of a foundation. In fact, Stephens & Smith Construction Co. has continued to impress Nebraska with its wide assortments of decorative concrete options. Dedicated to making sure their work stands the test of time, this team doesn’t only take care of placing the concrete, but they also protect it.

Concrete coatings can help protect the original image of decorative concrete, preserving rich colors and protecting it from the elements. However, the team at Stephens & Smith notes these coatings are not “one-size-fits-all.”

Before coating any piece of concrete, consumers should first determine which material will work best for their decorative concrete, such as:

• Acrylic: Acrylic concrete coatings work to seal and protect the surface. As an inexpensive option, acrylic is perfect for those on a tight budget. It’s also a versatile type of coating, as it can be used on interior and exterior surfaces. However, the acrylic can tend to get scratched in high-traffic areas and may need frequent restoration.
   
• Polyurethane:  This is an ideal option for anyone looking to elevate the look of an interior concrete floor, specifically one found in a showroom. Polyurethane offers a high-gloss effect, allowing interior floors to shine, and is resilient enough to withstand high-traffic. This option works well for those who want to highlight the color of a stained concrete floor. For standard concrete, polyurethane coatings can be mixed with color to provide a more decorative overlay.
• Concrete Overlay: If your concrete patio or flooring has seen better days, you may want to start with a thin concrete overlay as an initial coating. Overlays help restore surfaces and refine cracks, which may have occurred over time.
• Epoxy: If you’ve added texture to your decorative concrete, epoxy can help hold these elements in place. Color chips and stone accents are often applied and protected with an epoxy coating. While they are durable, epoxy coated concrete floors can take a while to dry, so make sure you allot time to keep the area clear.

To consult an expert on what type of coating may work best for your surface, call Stephens & Smith Construction Co. at (402) 475-8087. They can also assist you with flooring services for non-concrete surfaces. Visit the website to learn more about the comprehensive concrete services offered in and around the Lincoln and Omaha, NE, areas.