Concrete Stencils

Concrete stencils are an easy and inexpensive way to decorate boring, ugly concrete floors. Stencils are available in plastic or cardboard. Paper stencils deteriorate after they get wet, but there are some paper stencils available, which are coated in wax. These release from concrete easier and do not tear as much. Plastic stencils are more expensive but much more durable.

You would need to decide what type of pattern and design you want for your concrete. Some patterns of concrete stencils are better when trying to hide flaws in your concrete. You would also want to pick a pattern that matches your style and the décor of your home.

There are many ways to use concrete stencils to add texture or patterns, such as brick or tile. You should make sure that the pattern you are choosing is not out of proportion with the size of the area you are stenciling. If you are artistic, you can even pattern a tree or flowers.

You may want to try other stenciling techniques. Instead of stenciling an entire area, you could stencil a rectangular area to appear to be an area rug or you could use concrete stencils to make a patterned border for your living area.

To lay stencils, the concrete should be poured and floated to the correct level. Stencils can be placed individually, but normally stencils come in 1000 square foot rolls. Lay the stencil across the area of concrete and cut to fit. Work the stencil into the surface of the concrete with a stencil roller. Do not roll too deep. After all water on the top evaporates, apply two or three coats of color hardener over the entire stenciled area.

Work the hardener in over the concrete stencils. Let the concrete dry several hours and then remove the stencils. Your beautiful pattern will now be revealed. Apply two coats of sealer and let it dry several more hours.

You can also use concrete stencils when sandblasting concrete. You apply the stencil after the surface has been stained and sealed. Sandblast the area and remove the stencils. Remaining will be a natural exterior that can be stained after cleaning the surface.

Concrete stencils can save you lots of money when you compare the cost of installing or remodeling a concrete slab with stencils to installing a tile, stone, or wood floor. Another plus is that there are no joints for weeds to grow through.

Maintenance for concrete stencils is easy. After a year, you should clean and reseal the surface with an acrylic sealer. Repeat the process every two to three years. A quick rinse and sweep regularly will keep your concrete looking beautiful year after year.