Gardens are more than just spaces to plant flowers and vegetables; they are an extension of the home where we can relax and connect with nature. In fact, research from Zoopla in 2022 revealed that 47% of people would be put off purchasing a property due to the condition of the garden and concrete can be the ideal way to make an impact without the hefty price tag. Ryan Moss, senior commercial manager at Tarmac shares how cement can be a versatile and stylish option for modern gardens that appeal to today’s discerning buyers.
Almost anything you add to a garden space can have an effect on its look and feel. Modern and visually appealing, concrete is increasingly being used in exterior garden landscaping, with its durability, resistance and functionality making it a popular choice for developers. However, the type of concrete needs to be heavily considered in order to create the desired outcome, whether that’s through paving, furniture or garden structures.
Paving the way
Big or small, an area of paving – stone, concrete, brick, geometric or even modern irregular layouts – can look great and provide an excellent centrepiece for an outdoor area. However, as always, the devil is in the detail which is why it’s important to use the most appropriate products and materials to ensure a strong, sound and level patio that can take the extra foot traffic and provide resistance to weathers year-round.
For many builders a pre-packed ready to use cement such as Tarmac Blue Circle Slablayer is suitable choice for bedding and grounding slabs, since it overcomes many problems relating to site mixing. These include the use of excess water and the addition of other inappropriate materials, that can result in reduced strength, increased permeability and reduced durability of the hardened mortar.
With improved quality and consistency, high quality products such as Tarmac Blue Circle Slablayer contain specially selected sand and cement for use under patio paving slabs. It also comes in 20kg weatherproof, tear resistant packaging to reduce wastage on site.
Of course, no patio is complete without pointing in between the paving slabs. Often, these joints can be the first casualty of ground movement and external pressure, so it’s crucial to use a weather resistant and durable mortar such as Tarmac Blue Circle Quality Assured Mortar. It also comes in 20kg weatherproof bags, and importantly for smaller projects, the product is also available in conveniently sized 5kg and 10kg re-sealable tubs.
Board marked concrete
Board formed concrete is a method of construction that is being used more frequently because of concretes suitability as a finished material in modern design. By imprinting the wood grain on the surface, it visually softens and warms concrete’s cooler appearance while still allowing concrete to express the construction technique.
Importantly for design, concrete takes on the shape and texture of the forms into which it is poured, making it possible to enrich its surface character by using textured forms. Often, timber is used in combination with concrete walls to add to the overall composition. For example, if the concrete has been formed with horizontal, rough-board forms, the concrete’s surface is imprinted with wood grain texture and the two materials work well to create a stylish looking wall for any outdoor area.
Not only this but using poured high strength concrete which can be used in sections as thin as 30mm can give your buyers one of the most enduring, fire-resistant, thermally retentive and maintenance-free solutions. A concrete wall can last without decay for many years, protecting both the reputation and standards of your work.
Spoilt for choice
The use of concrete for design, both in and outside the home, is increasing and we’re seeing developers find more creative and imaginative ways to use it.
Now manufactured in various colours and textures, there are numerous options to choose from when it comes to the type of concrete to use for their job. From multi-purpose to high strength, incorporating concrete into garden design offers developers the opportunity to create visually captivating landscapes that will stand the test of time and help enhance the attractiveness and potential value of their properties.
For more information, visit: www.tarmac-bluecircle.co.uk