A Timeless Guide:
Mastering Visual and Architectural Concrete Finishes
In the ever-evolving landscape of architecture, there's a resounding call for uniqueness and individuality. Buildings are no longer mere structures; they're expressions of art, designed to be both functional and visually captivating. Among the materials at the forefront of this trend is cast-in-place concrete, offering unparalleled flexibility in achieving architectural visions. However, mastering the art of visual and architectural concrete finishes requires meticulous planning and collaboration. In this guide, we delve into the intricacies of concrete finishes, drawing insights from industry standards and advancements, focusing on Doka's expertise in this specialised field.
Understanding Concrete Finishes:
Each construction project is distinct, demanding tailored solutions for achieving desired concrete finishes. Collaboration among stakeholders – contractors, architects, and formwork suppliers – is paramount in this process. Concrete finishes are classified based on industry standards, with BS EN 13670:2009 and BS EN 1992-1-1:2023 replacing previous classifications such as BS 8110:1997. The Fifth Edition of the National Structural Concrete Specification (NSCS) is due to be published in 2024, but the current editions provide comprehensive guidelines for achieving four standardised finishes: basic, ordinary, plain and special.
Basic surface finish is applicable for areas receiving a levelling or screed.
Ordinary surface finish is acceptable for the application of finishes such as tiles or carpet.
Plain surface finish is applicable for areas without any other finish other than paint or surface coating
Special surface finish is applicable for areas requiring a specific texture, for example, tamped or brushed.
Types of Surface Finishes
Concrete finishes vary based on the project's requirements and aesthetic goals. In typical building applications, plain and special finishes are commonly sought after. A plain finish emphasises surface cleanliness and consistency, while a special finish, visual or architectural concrete, demands meticulous attention to detail and surface aesthetics.
Key Considerations for Special Finishes
Producing special finishes necessitates careful selection of materials, formwork quality, and construction practices. Early collaboration among project stakeholders is crucial in understanding and meeting the project's finish requirements. Factors such as surface regularity, colour consistency, and tolerances must be meticulously managed throughout the construction process.
Working with Natural Products
It is important to treat natural products used in the construction process such as plywood with great care to achieve better quality outcomes. Treat all cut and manufacture sealed edges appropriately and consider the use of more expensive but more predictable plastic-faced plywood types if the finish is critical to the project. Remember to also protect plywood from environmental factors such as water before use and when being stored between cycles
Achieving Colour Consistency
Colour consistency is a critical aspect of visual concrete finishes, often influenced by concrete maturity and material selection. Technologies like Concremote offer real-time monitoring of concrete maturity, enabling more precise timing for formwork removal and colour consistency. Material selection, including concrete mix and cement composition as well as plywood types and release agents used all play a significant role in achieving desired colour tones.
Factors Influencing Formwork Costs
Formwork costs for concrete finishes are influenced by various factors, including rental costs, operations scheduling, material selection, and assembly methods. Optimal formwork selection, guided by project requirements and budget constraints, are essential in achieving cost-effective yet high-quality finishes.
Conclusion
Mastering visual and architectural concrete finishes requires a blend of technical expertise, innovative technologies, and collaborative partnerships. By adhering to industry standards, leveraging advancements in material science and construction methodologies, and fostering effective collaboration among stakeholders, construction projects can achieve timeless architectural finishes that stand as testaments to creativity and craftsmanship.