Is Honed Concrete the Right Choice for Your Outdoor Space?

What is Honed Concrete? Would it be the right option for you Outdoor Area

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Honed concrete is a type of polished concrete that has been ground down to a smooth, flat surface using a series of grinding and polishing tools. Unlike polished concrete, which is highly glossy, honed concrete has a matte or satin finish, giving it a softer appearance. It’s often used for both indoor and outdoor flooring because of its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Is Honed Concrete Slippery When Wet?

Honed concrete is generally less slippery than polished concrete because of its matte finish. However, like most hard surfaces, it can become slippery when wet. To improve safety, especially in areas prone to getting wet, a non-slip treatment can be applied to the surface.

How Much is Honed Concrete?

The cost of honed concrete can vary depending on several factors such as the region, the size of the area to be covered, the complexity of the job, and the quality of the materials used.

On average, the cost of honed concrete typically ranges from $50 to $100 per square metre. This is just a ballpark figure, and it’s best to get quotes from local contractors for a more accurate estimate.

What is a Honed Concrete Finish?

A honed concrete finish refers to the specific look and feel of the concrete after it has been ground and polished to a smooth, matte, or satin finish. This finish is achieved by using finer and finer grinding tools until the desired smoothness and sheen are obtained. The result is a surface that is sleek and modern but not as reflective as highly polished concrete, making it a popular choice for various applications.

Could Honed Concrete be the Right Option for your Outdoor Area?

When considering honed concrete for your outdoor area, think about its use and functionality. Honed concrete is an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like driveways, patios, walkways, and pool decks due to its remarkable strength and durability. Its versatility ensures it performs well in various outdoor settings, providing a consistent and resilient surface that can handle everyday wear and tear while maintaining its stylish appearance.

Weather Conditions

• Durability: Honed concrete is very strong and can handle different weather, like rain, sun, and temperature changes. It’s less likely to crack or chip than other materials.
• Heat Resistance: In hot weather, honed concrete stays cooler than polished concrete because of its matte finish, making it nicer to walk on.

Slip Resistance

• Safety: Honed concrete is less slippery than polished concrete due to its matte finish, but it can still be slippery when wet. For wet areas, like around pools or patios, consider adding a non-slip treatment.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Low Maintenance: Honed concrete is easy to take care of. Regular sweeping and occasional washing with mild soap will keep it clean. It resists stains and is easy to clean.
• Sealing: To protect it from weather and stains, honed concrete should be sealed regularly. This helps it last longer and look good.

Looks and Design

• Customisation: You can customise honed concrete with different colours and patterns to match your style. It has a sleek, modern look that fits many designs.
• Seamless Look: If you want a continuous, seamless look, honed concrete is a great choice.

Cost

• Budget: Check if the cost of honed concrete fits your budget. It might cost more upfront than some materials, but its durability and low maintenance can save money over time.
• Value Addition: Good quality honed concrete can add value to your property, making it look better and more functional.

For the best results with honed concrete, professional installation is crucial. Hiring experienced professionals ensures that your concrete is installed correctly, maximising its durability and performance.

The quality of the installation significantly impacts the longevity and effectiveness of the concrete. Additionally, consider the installation timeline, which can vary based on the project’s size and complexity.

Ready to transform your outdoor area with honed concrete?

Contact us today for a consultation and see how this durable and stylish option can improve your space!