SKOKIE, Ill.—It is no secret that concrete floors and pavements are durable, cost-effective, and easy to maintain. But today, the increasing use of decorative concrete adds beautiful and environmentally friendly to the list of benefits.

The Art of Decorative Concrete, the latest Portland Cement Association (PCA) DVD, explores the processes and materials used to generate beautiful textured concrete driveways, patios, walkways, and interior floors. Hosted by Bob Harris, internationally renowned concrete artisan and president of the Decorative Concrete Institute in Temple, Ga., the video shows the variety of techniques contractors-turned-artists use to form stunning spaces.

Harris walks viewers through the possibilities that can be created by stamping or staining concrete, applying microtoppings, polishing concrete, and exposing the embedded aggregate. Designed as a resource for consumers and contractors considering decorative concrete applications for their next project, the video not only highlights ways to enhance newly poured concrete, but illustrates how polishing and microtopping can transform a gray, in-place concrete area into a visual focal point.

Experts in sustainable building have recognized the many positive attributes decorative concrete can bring to “green” design. Decorative concrete floors reduce the need for finishes such as carpet, which is associated with indoor air quality problems. By utilizing microtopping and polishing to transform an in-place slab , the need to use natural resources for reconstruction is eliminated. A polished concrete system was honored by BuildingGreen, Inc., at the 2006 Greenbuild Conference for being highly durable, easy to maintain, and free of VOC.

For more information or to order this and other decorative concrete resources, visit the PCA Bookstore at www.cement.org/bookstore.

Orders can also be placed by calling 800-868-6733.

About PCA
Based in Skokie, Ill., the Portland Cement Association represents cement companies in the United States and Canada. It conducts market development, engineering, research, education, and public affairs programs.

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