By Zayvian Camacho
Cast concrete artificial rocks can be used to create a water feature that will transform any backyard pool into an oasis. It is simple and enchanting. Cast concrete rock components look like real rocks because they’re cast from actual rocks. They have the same texture, shape and character. Cast concrete rock is used by more pool builders because it can withstand the freezing and thawing temperatures of Canada and northern U.S.
For the product to look like natural rock, staining and mortering techniques must be applied. When used with finesse, these methods can create a rock water feature that is visually appealing and authentic. It is important to learn how to stain and shade to create the most appealing and alluring result for your clients.
Staining
It is essential to ensure that the concrete water features blend in seamlessly with the surrounding decks when it comes to shading and staining.
As a cost-effective way to create beautiful decks around the pool, builders can use different concrete stains. The cast concrete water features can also be stained to match the natural stones and pavers surrounding the pool.
For some builders, staining concrete can be an art. It’s easier to get natural stones that look good with each other than it is for them to coordinate and match. The cast concrete manufacturer provides kits for dyeing the concrete stones to match the natural hardscaping or deck treatments. Select a blend of acrylic stains that are specially formulated to adhere to cast concrete stones. Market stains and paints are designed to adhere to porous surfaces, not high-tech waterproof products like fibre-reinforced cement (FRC), which is used for pool water features.
Natural stones absorb stains in a different way than artificial stone. Cast concrete rocks absorb even less than shotcrete rock. Many pool builders prefer to shade and stain their custom work in order to blend the colours with the surrounding area.
The article Creating Natural Looks for Artificial Rock Formations in Backyard Pools first appeared on Pool & Spa Marketing.
