Otto Soto – Breathalytics

Concrete Resurfacing Waco TX is an excellent way to give a new look to old and worn concrete. It saves money over replacing the entire slab and allows you to customize your finish.

Choosing the right resurfacing option is critical for the performance and longevity of your project. Considering budget is also essential.

Overlays are a great way to revitalize concrete surfaces without the cost of replacing the entire surface. They’re often used to cover stains, cracks, and other cosmetic flaws. These overlays are typically composed of Portland cement, various aggregates, and polymers that make them strong and long-lasting. They also create a very durable bond to existing concrete surfaces. However, it’s important to note that concrete overlays are not a solution for all concrete problems. If your concrete has significant structural issues, such as heaving, severe cracking, spalling due to deicing salts or freeze-thaw cycles, or is resting on unstable soil, an overlay will not improve the situation.

Overlay materials can be used for both new construction and resurfacing projects. They can be applied in a variety of thicknesses, depending on the needs of your project. Most manufacturers will provide a data sheet with specific instructions regarding preparation, installation, and curing for their products. These instructions will help ensure that your concrete overlays are properly installed and will last a long time.

Concrete overlays are available in a wide range of finishes, textures, and colors. These finishes can be applied through the use of integral pigments, dyes, or stains. Some overlays can even be stenciled or stamped for a unique look.

There are many different types of concrete overlays, so it’s important to choose the right one for your project. Some of the most popular include single- and dual-component systems. Single component systems use dry polymers that are activated by water to form a chemical bond with the original concrete surface, while dual-component systems combine the use of primer and dry polymers with fine aggregates to create a mechanical and chemical bond with the existing concrete.

Floating

Resurfacing is a quick and inexpensive way to revive concrete surfaces, such as patios, driveways, sidewalks and more. It helps to mask serious damage and extend the lifespan of the concrete while also making it look nicer. However, it is important to understand that resurfacing products are cosmetic finishes and not repair products. If there are significant cracks or pitting, the concrete needs to be patched before resurfacing can take place.

Before resurfacing, it is crucial to clean the slab and remove any loose material with a broom or pressure washer. It is also important to make sure the surface is dry, as resurfacing will not adhere to wet concrete. It is also essential to tape off any expansion joints to prevent the resurfacing product from filling them in. It is recommended to use duct tape or weather stripping.

Floating is done on nearly every new concrete project, after the surface has been leveled with a screed and before it is troweled to a finish. A float is a flat metal, resin or aluminum tool that is used to smooth the concrete for curing. The float pushes down the aggregate and encourages moisture to rise, helping the concrete dry and creating a better-looking surface.

There are several different types of floating tools available, with the most popular being a magnesium bull float or a wood float. Bull floats are large and flat to aid in spreading the fresh concrete, and they are typically used after a screed has been put down. Using a bull float allows workers to reach areas that a screed could not, which can be a critical step in the finishing process.

Spray-applying

Concrete resurfacing is a process that can restore and beautify a concrete surface without the expense of replacement. It can also extend the life of a surface, and make it easier to clean. It is a great choice for driveways, patios, sidewalks, and pool decks. Several different types of concrete coatings can be applied, but all serve the same purpose: to protect and enhance the surface of the concrete.

The most common type of resurfacing is spray application. This method uses a large machine to apply a special concrete overlay to the existing surface. This overlay can be stained or colored to achieve a unique look. This technique is also ideal for large jobs, as it can be completed quickly.

When choosing a spray texture, it is important to consider how the finish will look when it has been installed. You can choose from a variety of patterns and textures, including those that mimic the appearance of natural stone or brick. In addition, you can use water-based stains to create different colors and designs on the overlay.

If your concrete has cracks, you should fill them before resurfacing it. Then, you can smooth the concrete with a hand float or trowel. It is important to prepare the concrete before resurfacing it, as this will ensure that it lasts longer and looks better.

Whether you want to resurface your concrete patio, driveway, or walkways, it is important to choose the right finish for the job. A resurfacing material that resists UV rays will keep your concrete looking fresh and new. It is also easy to clean, making it an excellent option for areas that are often used.

Stamping

If you want to add a decorative touch to your concrete patio, driveway or pool deck, consider stamped overlays. These are available in a wide range of colors and patterns, making it easy to create the look you desire. They are also easy to maintain. To extend their life, simply sweep them regularly to prevent dirt buildup and seal them at least once every few years.

This type of resurfacing is sprayed on to the existing surface, usually with a spray machine. It is a quick and efficient method that can cover large areas in a short amount of time. However, it is not as durable as other types of resurfacing and may not be suitable for high-traffic areas.

Before applying any overlays, the concrete needs to be thoroughly inspected. Significant structural damage such as large cracks or settling can cause problems later on. Surface deterioration can also prevent the overlay from adhering to the concrete, so it is important to remove any loose materials before resurfacing.

It is also important to prepare the concrete properly before resurfacing it. This includes pressure-washing the slab, repairing any significant damage and removing any stains that may seep through the new surface. It is a good idea to use a concrete penetration grading (CPG) test kit to get an accurate reading of the condition of the existing concrete.

Resurfacing your concrete will not only extend its lifespan and make it easier to clean, but it can also improve the overall appearance of your property. Resurfacing is a cost-effective option, but it is important to choose the right technique for your project. For best results, it is important to hire a professional who has experience in this process.

Engraving

Concrete resurfacing is a great way to revitalize old and worn concrete surfaces such as driveways, patios, sidewalks, or even basements. It is more cost-effective than replacing the existing concrete and can be done in a fraction of the time. This technique uses a concrete overlay or coating to cover the existing surface and enhance its durability and appearance. It can also repair cracks and make the surface less slippery and easier to clean.

Engraving and staining are common concrete resurfacing techniques that add design features to the exterior or interior of the home. They can be used to produce a tile patterned floor, create a stone, flagstone, or cobblestone appearance, or just add color to the concrete. Engraving can be done by hand, machine, or laser. It is a great option for identification numbers or logos in parking lots, room motif accents, residential entranceway vertical markings, and more. Engraved designs are permanent and don’t present a trip or safety hazard, unlike painted lines that can fade or chip.

Staining can be done in a variety of ways, including acid etching and chemical staining. These methods work by penetrating the concrete to create a mottled or variegated appearance. The result is a natural-looking and durable surface that resists dirt, oil, grease, and other contaminants.

When considering concrete resurfacing, it is important to know the size and complexity of the project. This will help you determine the total cost of the work. The size of the project will influence the amount of labor required, which in turn influences the overall price. Additionally, if you are planning on adding a pattern to the concrete, you should consider how much this will add to the overall cost.

Otto Soto

www.breathalytics.co

Clothing design is a fun and creative way to express yourself. Inspiration can come from many places, including visual art, something you want but can’t find in stores, or combining current styles to make new looks.

Outlining a person for each sketch can be difficult, so most designers use a figure template (called a croquis) to help them draw with proper proportion. Then comes pattern making, a necessary step that can be done manually or digitally.

Trending for Spring/Summer 2019

The spring runways gave us a glimpse into the trends that will fill your closet in warmer weather. Whether it’s a new take on a silhouette you love, a trend revival you never expected, or a cool new color palette to fall for, these fashion trends will refresh your wardrobe and prepare you for summer.

The sartorial theme that ran through the shows was one of escapism. From Wes Gordon’s orange twinset at Carolina Herrera to Altuzarra’s laid-back crochet dressing and Paco Rabanne’s sophisticated Balearic style, the spring 2019 season was full of styles that made you want to jet away.

Plaids, stripes and checks were big for AW18 and it looks like they’ll be bigger still for spring. From the more refined plaid blazers at Off-White to the rainbow striped playsuit at Paco Rabanne, plaid is an easy way to add pattern to your look.

Another print that’s taking a fresh spin is tie dye. While it’s often associated with surf bums and ageing hippies, the psychedelic swirls went from far out to totally in at the end of 2018, thanks to the likes of Dior and Stella McCartney. This summer, the tees and dresses you’ll see everywhere will be more luxe than your mom’s old ones, with embellishments and lace adding a more sophisticated edge to this unexpected style MVP.

Clashing prints is also a major trend for this season. From polka dots over checked shirts to animal print dresses paired with a striped blazer, this is a trend that’s destined for the bold and brave, so don’t be afraid to try it out.

If you’re not into clashing patterns, there’s another print to try this season that’s just as big: grown-up neon. This eighties takeaway has been given a more mature renovation by designers such as Ashish, Emilia Wickstead and Natasha Zinko. At Emporio Armani, it’s even worked into the all-in-one power suit trend we saw on the runway.

Cut-Outs

With celebrities like Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner promoting cut-out dresses, the trend has reached an all-time high. Whether it’s circles, thigh-high slits or even pelvic cutouts, the peekaboo design has sparked a fascination among fashion fans. But despite its sexy appeal, the cut-out has more to offer than mere sensuality. It can also symbolize the desire for self-expression and the rejection of rigid body standards.

Although cut-outs have been a prevalent fashion trend for the past couple of years, they made a comeback with more vigor this season on both the runways and streets. According to F-Trend’s analysis, this trend has seen a more than 8% rise compared to the past five catwalk seasons.

A variety of designers incorporated this sexy style into their collections, including Off-White ™, which paid tribute to Virgil Abloh with repeated holes in knitwear pieces. Peter Do reworked this concept with wide-legged jeans, and MSGM used star-shaped cutouts on hoodies and tees. Yoon from AMBUSH opted for a more creative aesthetic with her heart-shaped cutouts on animal print pants.

But it’s the younger generation of designers who are embracing this sexy trend with a more progressive mindset. Karoline Vitto designs with a focus on showing natural body curves and shapes instead of concealing them. Sinead O’Dwyer, on the other hand, refuses to follow the common workflow by starting with a standard model size. She believes that every body is unique and that it’s a designer’s job to make clothes for all kinds of bodies.

Denim

Denim is a sturdy cotton twill fabric that is usually blue in color but can be dyed any color. It is created by weaving horizontal threads of cotton (known as the weft) through vertical threads of cotton (known as the warp). The result is a rugged and strong fabric that is known for its distinctive diagonal parallel lines, also called ribbing.

The name ‘denim’ comes from a French town, Nimes, where the fabric was first created. It was originally created as a heavy serge fabric, and named ‘serge de Nimes’ or’serge from Nimes’. The weavers who created it tried to reproduce cotton corduroy, but they failed, and instead came up with the enduring fabric that we know as denim today.

When it comes to designing jeans, there are several things to keep in mind. First, the fabric must be thick enough to hold up against wear and tear. It must also be tightly woven to prevent stretch and shrinkage. It’s also important to use fabrics that are sustainable and ethically produced, since the manufacturing process for denim can be quite toxic for human workers.

It’s also crucial to design jeans with a good fit. To ensure this, it’s necessary to test the pattern by sewing up a sample in shell form with muslin or calico before the final product is sewn up. Once the prototype is tested, it’s time to move on to the next stage of the design process. This involves sketching the style on a figure template, called a croquis, to ensure accurate proportion and depiction of movement. This is an essential step, and one that I never skip! Once the sketches are refined it’s time to create a sewing pattern.

Geometric Prints

Geometric prints are all the rage this spring. Triangles, octagons, and trapezoids may have seemed uncool in geometry class, but they’re totally hip on a floral or polka dot print dress. Designers have taken this pattern trend to the next level, incorporating angular shapes into pieces that modernize gingham and plaid patterns. For example, MSGM incorporated rhombus shapes into its sweaters for a fresh take on the classic argyle pattern. And Alberta Ferretti and Philosophy used rectangular patterns in a similar manner to modernize tartan prints.

Another way to implement geometric designs is to use them as borders. This is an easy way to add structure and complexity to a piece without sacrificing the overall style of your design. To make a border even more eye-catching, try using a contrasting color scheme to break up the shape and create an illusion of depth. This technique is also useful for separating the different sections of a piece of clothing.

You can also use a geometric pattern as the background for a text box or header image. Or you can create a more organic look by adding a textured effect. To do this, overlay a geometric pattern over a photo. Then use a gradient to create a color palette that works well with the patterns.

If you’re looking for ways to incorporate geometric patterns into your designs, check out our Geometric Pattern Bundle. It’s a collection of high-quality, commercially licensable vector patterns that can be used in a variety of applications. Plus, they come in a range of colors so you can find the perfect one to suit your style.

Bold Back Prints

Reclaiming the space often left unused on the back of clothing, this season’s bold back prints showcase larger designs than those seen on the front of a garment. From a swirling paisley fit for a garden picnic to a tropical floral that speaks to summer vacations, playful patterns are quintessential to warm weather styles.

If you’re not quite ready to dive into a bold print dress, try adding denim or another layering piece to take the oomph off the look for a more casual style. Also, remember that a bold color doesn’t always mean a bold print. For example, the red and white floral dresses in this trend feature more red than white (like a polka dot or pinstripe). This helps the overall pattern feel subtle.