Elevating the Outdoor Space Décor with Sophisticated Concrete

When you start planning on furnishing your outdoor space and looking through the shops, you become aware of just how versatile the market is what with all the furniture options. As drawn as you may be to the most attractive pieces, it takes more than simply looking into stylishness to be certain you’ve made the right decision.

Outdooor Concrete

After all, you’re choosing them for an area exposed to all kinds of weather, so strength and longevity should also be part of the decision-making. And when taking both chicness and durability into account, it shouldn’t come as surprise concrete has become so popular as of late.

Before it became such a desired material for the home, it used to be associated with the streets, which is why initially many didn’t like the idea of inviting it into their abodes. I can tell because I was one of these people, mostly out of thinking it to be rather dull, lifeless and cold, the opposite of what I want for my home. However, the more I began to see it in décor magazines and shows, the more I grew to like it. Let’s do this material justice by considering some of its main characteristics and benefits.

Versatility

round concrete table in garden

Lately, I’ve been thinking of adding the concrete’s subdued elegance to my yard but didn’t know where to begin – I just knew I wouldn’t like concrete seating. Lucky for me the designers, manufacturers and suppliers have plenty to offer. So, if like me, you aren’t that keen on introducing chairs, stools or concrete benches, the great news is the market is full of other options too. When it comes to other outdoor furniture concrete table can fit any exterior, modern and rustic alike, as well as match décor pieces like pots.

In addition to the different sizes, shapes, and variations in the polished surfaces of concrete tables, you can also count on versatility given that it’s a material that looks great with wood, metal, leather and glass. I can’t wait to combine my teak chairs and my sleek white self-watering planters with a round concrete table to create a focal point with modern and natural flair in my yard!

Durability

Since it’s been used for the exterior of houses and buildings, there’s no doubt concrete is a strong material. It can withstand weather changes, thus it’s suitable for year-round use outside without giving you the worry to cover it up for protection or move it inside in the colder months of the year.

Compared with wood which shrinks and swells when exposed to humidity, concrete is able to withstand even harsh weather as we have here in Australia. Even more so when it’s treated with a surface finish which prevents water from making its way through. Moreover, now that it’s reinforced with materials in the example of fibreglass and eco-friendly jute, it becomes somewhat lighter and easier to move around, yet still strong enough to resist breakage.

Despite this, if you want to be sure of its durability and quality, and get to increase its lifespan at that, it’s best to read first what the manufacturers say, i.e. check whether a certain piece is suitable for indoor or outdoor use, or both. Additionally, concrete is also known to be resistant to wear and tear from kids and pets, but it’s advisable to avoid getting any sharp materials around it or they could scratch the surface.

Uniqueness

Yes, I’m aware it doesn’t seem all that unique at first glance, but let’s not forget concrete furniture is hand-crafted which means no two concrete outdoor tables or any other décor pieces are alike. There’s some variation in the texture, impression, as well as the surface in terms of different sealants used to protect it so you can be sure you’re introducing a true work of art into your living space.

Then again, if you’re your own handyman and like doing home improvements, you can personalise your outdoor furniture concrete table or other piece ven more by adding a pop of colour, painting the concrete and sealing it with glossy finish. In case such a project isn’t your cup of tea, then simply add some texture and pattern with the help of fabric.

While I’d like to keep the concrete table bare initially, I might adorn it with a vibrant cloth that would also come in handy with protection from heat. Or maybe I’d end up leaving it to my wonderful plants to decorate with their natural texture – I haven’t decided yet!

Maintenance

Sure, as I already mentioned, concrete is famous for its strength, however, that doesn’t mean you won’t have to do anything to protect it – it just means you’d do less than you would expect with other materials when exposed to the weather elements.

As low-maintenance as it is, you should give it a wash from time to time with soap and water (by all means, stay away from cleaning products with acidic chemicals), and if necessary use a power-tool like the pressure washer every now and then. I have to point out though, considering it’s a power-tool, you should be careful and use the lowest setting to avoid damages.

If you plan on using a concrete top outdoor table for eating, like me, it’s necessary to avoid getting the material and finish damaged from the heat of pots and pans by adding stylish stands underneath them. Lastly, since it’s a porous material, after all, you should pay attention to whether or not the furnishings you buy have already been protected or need finish.