Faux concrete walls are an affordable and easy-to-install way to dress up your home. This technique involves using a stencil and concrete overlay to turn plain plaster into stylish brick features.
Unlike topical sealers that sit on the surface and rub off with wear, GBS Penetrating Sealer actually protects the substrate by filling molecular voids. This makes it a superior choice for concrete, brick and stucco surfaces.
Sealing
If you want the look of concrete walls but don’t have the time or money to pour them, consider using faux wall panels. They are lightweight and come with a polyurethane coating, which makes them easy to clean. They also don’t require a professional to install, so you can save on installation fees and transform your space yourself.
You can also achieve the look of a concrete paint wall with paint or drywall compound. These finishes are easier to apply than concrete re-surfacer but may not offer the same level of texture.
LOFT Raw is an easy to apply concrete-look interior wall coating that offers a modern metropolitan ambience. It’s an excellent alternative to cement wall paint, and it’s the next best thing to real raw concrete. To apply, first humidify the surface with a sponge (work on +20-30 sqft at a time). After applying LOFT Raw, use a stainless steel trowel to smooth the softened surface and create a “raw” finish.
Best Sealant for Faux Concrete
The best choice for sealing your faux concrete walls is a penetrating sealer like Enhancer Shield, which is available in both water- and solvent-based formulations. It works by saturating the concrete surface, allowing it to repel moisture and de-icing salts without changing texture or causing damage. This is a great option for outdoor surfaces, as it will greatly reduce the likelihood of freeze-thaw and spalling damage, as well as prevent mildew growth and staining.
To use it, simply scrape away any existing peeling paint, sand or etch the concrete if needed (it’s usually not), rinse and let dry completely. Then apply two coats using a brush, 1/4-inch nap roller or pump sprayer, waiting 10 minutes between each application. It should be dry to the touch within 4 hours, ready for walking or driving in about a day and fully waterproof in 72 hours. It’s a very durable and affordable choice for protecting your concrete surface.
Faux Concrete Wall Maintenance
Faux concrete wall panels can add a modern look to your home. They are a great choice for those who want the look of concrete but don’t have the time or money to install real concrete walls. These panels are also rated for fire safety and have excellent weather resistance.
Unlike real concrete, faux concrete panels don’t need to be poured into molds and are easier to clean. They are made with polyurethane, which is a durable material that can resist impact, scratches, and staining. These panels can be easily wiped down with a cloth to keep them looking new.
The pillar section of the west wall is getting re-parged with cement, repairing a lot of holes and eroded areas. This should take two days.
Protecting Faux Concrete Surfaces
Concrete is a durable, reliable and highly resistant material that serves a wide variety of industrial applications. However, it is not indestructible, and without the proper care and protection, industrial concrete surfaces can quickly succumb to environmental detractors.
Whether used for countertops, floors or walls, it is important that concrete surfaces be protected from moisture damage. Fortunately, there are several tried and true methods for protecting concrete surfaces. The ideal solution will depend on the specific environment, so it is important to consult a concrete surface protectant expert before choosing a product that will be effective in your space.
Decorative painting can add a dramatic effect to any plain concrete surface. Faux finisher Kim Longoa transforms an outdoor concrete patio into a cozy, carpeted lounge area by using adhesive stencils and hand-applied stains. Stenciling and faux finishing techniques were also utilized to create a slate path that weaves around red pavers and a lily pond.