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https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl DIY Forum >> Building Questions >> FINISHING A CONCRETE STEP! https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1120484086 Message started by Dusty on Jul 4^th, 2005, 2:34pm

Title: FINISHING A CONCRETE STEP!
Post by Dusty on Jul 4^th, 2005, 2:34pm

Just built a step up to my new conservatory. :o

Using old slabs, bricks & plenty of basic sand/cement (1/1). ;)

It’s the right height and size, but as it’s not finished it looks rough!! ;D

Can I get cement/concrete that will give it a smooth classy finish and looks a bit like real stone? 8)

Thanks
Dusty :D

PS - What’s the dif between cement & concrete? :P

Title: Re: FINISHING A CONCRETE STEP!
Post by Dewy on Jul 4^th, 2005, 3:28pm

Portland cement is the grey or white powder that binds the sand and agregate together to form concrete or mortar.
Real stone would not be 'smooth and classy' but rough and more natural.
It IS possible to make concrete look like stone by using a cement colouring but is would not look like stone if left smooth.
It would have to be put in a mould to create the style wanted but needs plenty of practice to make the finished concrete look like rock.

Title: Re: FINISHING A CONCRETE STEP!
Post by HandyJon on Jul 4^th, 2005, 10:08pm

wrote on Jul 4^th, 2005, 2:34pm:

Can I get cement/concrete that will give it a smooth classy finish and looks a bit like real stone?

By real stone I assume you mean cut stone like paving. I'm not a person who does much concrete work, but I gather that to get a smooth polished surface, you have to work the surface of the concrete with a trowel to make it smooth as it sets. Alternatively get a diamond polisher and polish the concrete. ;)

Title: Re: FINISHING A CONCRETE STEP!
Post by CWatters on Jul 4^th, 2005, 11:07pm

Perhaps get some real stone tiles?

Title: Re: FINISHING A CONCRETE STEP!
Post by drill_driver on Jul 23^rd, 2005, 1:01pm

if you could key the concrete make up a mix of 5:1:1(lime) lump on the compo and use a plasterers `small tool` to shape the cement mix to simulate stone.use a small banister type brush to drag and stipple.You see this effect around doors and windows for decorative purposes.Looks good.

Title: Re: FINISHING A CONCRETE STEP!
Post by Kirklees_Plaster on Aug 6^th, 2005, 6:25am

Can I get cement/concrete that will give it a smooth classy finish and looks a bit like real stone?

You can get a great finish, but how long will a cement finish last the wear and tear of people walking on it?

I'm with CWatters on this one, get the real thing; you can't beat it for durability and looks.

Kirk