Submit our quick form and get quotes now!
3 min read
3 min read
Wall coveringsConcrete and Its Imitations as Wall Covering
If you're looking to give your interior a modern look, concrete and concrete-inspired wall coverings are a great option. This article explains all the ways you can achieve a concrete look for your wall, with or without real concrete!
The first option is to install real concrete. Even though pouring concrete directly onto vertical surfaces is difficult, it is still feasible. To start out, you'll have to install plywood sheets with edges on which the concrete will be poured.
Once the concrete has been poured, you can decide either to add some texture or to make the surface smooth. Most people prefer to polish the concrete walls with a special machine that gives off a glossy finish.
Many different colours and finishes are available in hardware stores, to suit your tastes. The main drawbacks of this particular option are that this technique must be done by a professional and that it can be expensive.
Another disadvantage is the fact that concrete tends to attract dust, although certain products contain additives that can fix this problem. Prices start at 12$ per square foot.
The second option is to install concrete wall panels. These panels, also called fibre cement panels, are made of a microlayer of concrete poured on a flexible fibrous surface. They come in various shades and finishes.
Thanks to their easy manipulation, the installation process is simple. The final result is very similar to real concrete walls. However, since concrete panels are standardized, they are less customizable than real concrete.
Photo: Pixabay
In third comes the option of using stick sheet roll concrete. Based on the same concept as the concrete wall panels, this flexible sheet is sold in rolls, like wallpaper. Many textures, colours and finishes are available and the final result is very realistic.
The installation process requires the use of an adhesive product usually sold with the rolls. It can be completed by anyone who has basic manual skills.
Last but not least, you could also paint your walls with concrete look-alike paint. Certain paints mimic concrete and can even achieve a matte or polished finish, much like real concrete. Many colours are also available and it is easy to apply.
Although it is less similar to concrete than fibre panels or sheet rolls, this type of paint can create a very beautiful and realistic result. The main advantage of this option is that it is more affordable than the other alternatives.
Main photo: Flickr-Rooky Yatz
RenoQuotes.com can help you get quotes for your wall covering renovation. If you submit your project to us, we’ll put you in contact with the most suitable contractors for you. Fill in the form on the homepage (only a few minutes), and you will receive quotes from companies specialized in wall coverings.
Last modified 2023-11-07
The latest industry news, interviews, technologies, and resources.
RenoQuotes.com • 12 Feb 2024
Are you looking for a new, durable, aesthetic-looking, low-maintenance, and custom-made flooring option? Well, an epoxy floor coating might just be the best option for your next renovation project. Here’s everything you should know about installation and costs.
Amanda Harvey • 07 Nov 2023
Installing a brand-new toilet in your bathroom isn’t exactly a desirable project. Plumbing aside, this isn’t a job for the faint at heart and takes some time, effort and heavy lifting. However, if you’ve got a spirit for adventure and you’re feeling up for it, this is a DIY job that you can easily take on!
Christime Simard • 07 Nov 2023
The more technology evolves, the more it changes the interaction we have on a daily basis with the devices we use. Our everyday objects are more and more connected: from our watches to our phones, including our household appliances, the features that home automation adds to our lives are interesting, in addition to being perfected over the years for more simple and instinctive usage.
RenoQuotes.com • 07 Nov 2023
Wallpaper is now making a huge comeback. After paint, it is now the second most popular wall covering product. Find out why so many people choose to cover their walls with wallpaper!
Léa Plourde-Archer • 07 Nov 2023
Brick is a durable material. However, brick joints have a tendency to deteriorate much more rapidly. Over time, the mortar that is used to make the joints will start chipping, thus affecting the water tightness of the surface.