Why Your Neighbors Might Prefer Wood Over Concrete
Australians are certainly blessed to live in one of the sunniest climates on the planet and homeowners these days want to take advantage of the outdoor lifestyle as much as they can. Consequently, people are spending more of their time developing the outdoor space around their homes. Whereas wood might have been a popular choice for the construction of an outdoor deck, consumers are increasingly turning to concrete products for a number of reasons.
Maintenance and Environmental Issues
When you install a wooden deck outside your home you know that you have to maintain it according to a schedule. On an annual basis you have to restain the deck and make sure that it does not fall victim to any infestation.
People are also increasingly concerned about the environment. Studies have shown that pressure treated wood may have toxic chemicals within, which can leach into the soil. Those concerned with environmental degradation are also turning away from wood made from exotic imports, sourced from countries where rainforests are being decimated in order to fulfill the demand.
Creativity
There are so many different types of concrete product available that you are only limited by your imagination when it comes to redesigning the exterior of your home. For example, you could choose balusters, rails, planters, picnic tables and decorative fountains in a wide variety of different looks and colors.
Precast products can be supplied through resources like CPC Panels Pty Ltd in tones that match the look and feel of your home and its surrounding area. For example, beige, tan, grey and terracotta are frequent requests. Maybe a blended look might complement the indigenous rock formations to be found near your home.
Eating Out
On a summer evening it's nice to prepare and eat the evening meal in the fresh air and many people are opting to create a complete, outdoor kitchen. Incorporating concrete products here may call for a large, slab area underneath the grill and all appliances to ensure a stable base for your work. The counter top itself can be made of concrete that is sandblasted and treated with sealant, for longevity and practicality.
In a corner of your outdoor entertainment area could be a fireplace. A contractor can decorate the actual fireproof box supplied for this purpose, including the surrounding area, the hearth and the mantelpiece. If a more formal kitchen is not your style for your outdoor space, then a concrete fireplace may just be. This has the benefit of being quite simple to build and maintain.