Concrete is becoming a popular choice for both home and business owners across the Gold Coast, and for good reason! It’s versatile, durable, and cost-effective, offering the ideal solution for any project, whether you’re installing a commercial floor or planning a stylish home patio. But, as with any building material, it’s essential to know all the facts before you decide to use it in your project.
So, why is concrete so popular? What types of concrete are available? How much does it cost? Can it be customised? And how can you find a reliable Gold Coast concrete contractor that will do the job right? All these questions and more will be answered in today’s blog post!
Why is concrete a popular choice on the Gold Coast?
So why is concrete such a popular choice? Well, we already mentioned at the outset that it is extremely durable, versatile and cost-effective, all good things! But there are some special features that make it an ideal choice for all your Gold Coast concrete needs! The coastal climate here exposes our homes and businesses to humidity, salt and high UV levels. Concrete is perfect for this climate, as its resilient nature helps it withstand these coastal conditions while still only needing minimal maintenance. It can be used as residential concrete or commercial concrete, weathering the elements without the need for constant upkeep.
What types of concrete are commonly used on the Gold Coast?
On the Gold Coast, there are some types of concrete that are especially popular, and each one is suited to different applications and design preferences. Exposed aggregate concrete is one of the most popular choices for outdoor spaces like driveways and patios. Its textured, non-slip surface provides both style and safety, revealing natural stones or pebbles in the finish. If you want to learn more about exposed aggregate, then check out the next question!
Stamped concrete imitates the attractive appearance of stone, brick, or tile, making it another popular option for patios and pathways. Stencilled concrete is also a stunning decorative option that uses stencils to create intricate patterns and designs on the concrete surface. It can be fully customised to create your own unique driveways, patios, and walkways!
For interiors, polished concrete has become very popular because of its sleek, modern appearance and easy maintenance, making it ideal for residential and commercial floors. Coloured concrete, available in a variety of shades, is often used for both indoor and outdoor projects to add unique colour accents. These options allow for a highly customised approach to your project!
What Is exposed aggregate concrete?
Exposed aggregate concrete is commonly used for many Gold Coast concrete projects, but what is it? It is a type of concrete in which the top layer is removed to reveal a stunning decorative finish, such as natural stones, gravel, or pebbles. Its textured surface makes it non-slip while still looking extremely beautiful. Many like to use this material for concrete driveways, foundations, footpaths, flooring, and more!
The application of exposed aggregate concrete usually involves pouring a concrete mix that includes carefully selected aggregates. Then, the top layer of concrete is sandblasted or washed away to reveal these carefully chosen aggregates underneath, leaving behind a gorgeous decorative finish.
Is it better to resurface or replace concrete?
The decision of whether to replace or resurface concrete will depend on the condition of your surface and how damaged it is. Resurfacing concrete is often a better choice if your surface only has minor cosmetic issues, such as cracks, wear, and discolouration. Resurfacing means applying a thin, durable overlay that will restore your concrete surface with the cost and disruption of a full replacement!
However, if your concrete has deep structural damage, major cracks or even foundation issues, then you may need to consider replacement! But there are still ways to make this sustainable! The Australian Government’s Your Home guide to Concrete Slab Floors highlights how “recycling concrete is cost-effective, minimises waste and reduces the need to use more of earth’s natural resources.” So, if your concrete needs replacing and you want to do it in an eco-friendly way, try looking for a Gold Coast concrete contractor who can use recycled concrete.
Can concrete be customised?
Yes, concrete can absolutely be customised to suit your personal preferences and needs! There is a wide range of customisation options, such as adding pigments directly to the mix to create coloured concrete, using stencils to create intricate patterns, or applying stamping techniques to mimic natural stone, brick, or tile textures. You can even add finishes to make polished concrete, which creates a sleek, smooth surface ideal for interiors, or exposed aggregate, which reveals the natural stones within the concrete for a unique, textured look that is perfect for outdoor areas.
How much is concrete per m2 on the Gold Coast?
On the Gold Coast, concrete costs generally range between $90 and $180 per square meter, depending on factors such as project size, type of concrete, and finish. Standard plain concrete typically costs around $60 to $85 per m², while more decorative options like exposed aggregate or stencilled concrete can be priced higher, between $100 and $150 per m². Complex projects with specific design elements or that need extensive preparation, like sloping sites, are usually more expensive because of the additional labour and material costs. But for the most accurate pricing, it’s best to ask your chosen concreting contractor for a quote!
How long does a concrete project typically last?
A professionally installed and well-maintained concrete project could last 20 to 30 years, or even longer, depending on the quality of the installations and the environment it’s exposed to.
What maintenance is required for concrete surfaces?
If you want your Gold Coast concrete surfaces to last for a long time, then you must carry out regular maintenance. For outdoor surfaces, such as driveways or patios, it’s essential to brush away dirt and debris regularly, as this will help prevent staining and surface abrasion. Applying a concrete sealer every 2-3 years is also recommended to protect against moisture, chemicals, and UV damage, which can lead to cracks and discolouration if left unaddressed.
Maintenance is typically simpler for indoor polished or decorative concrete floors; regular dusting and cleaning with a neutral cleaning substance are enough to keep the surface looking clean. Avoid using any harsh chemicals, as they can wear down protective finishes over time! Addressing small cracks promptly with patching material also prevents minor issues from escalating.
Regular inspections are also a good idea, as they help you identify and repair minor wear, which can significantly extend the lifespan of your concrete surfaces, keeping them functional and visually appealing for decades!
How do I choose a reliable Gold Coast concrete contractor?
Now, we have come to our final but still extremely important question: how can we choose reliable Gold Coast concrete contractors? It’s vital to begin by confirming the contractor’s licensing and certifications through the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), which indicates adherence to industry standards. Look for reviews, testimonials, and portfolios of past work to evaluate the contractor’s experience, especially in the specific concrete services you need, such as driveways or decorative finishes!
You’ll also want to gather multiple quotes but don’t automatically go for the lowest price. Focus instead on quality and reputation, as the better the installation is, the longer your concrete project will last, saving you money in the long run! Discuss your project timelines with them and ensure they offer a written contract outlining details like materials, methods, and costs. It’s also crucial to verify their insurance coverage to protect against potential on-site damages. Open communication and transparency are good signs, as they show a contractor’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Choosing a reliable concrete contractor helps ensure that you’ll receive high-quality workmanship from a reputable professional, resulting in a stunning concrete project that will last you for many years to come!