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| These
thin toppings make it possible to create colored concrete
surfaces over existing slabs and wood-framed floors |
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The most common additives contain latex
polymers, which are the among the least expensive. This family
of polymers includes poly acrylic latex (methyl methacrylate),
poly vinyl acetate, polyvinylidene chloride, styrene-butadiene
copolymer, and nitrile and natural rubber. Other polymer additives
are based on epoxy or polyester that has been crosslinked
to styrene. Each type of polymer produces concrete with distinct
physical properties. Depending on the formulation, the additives
might produce material that is stronger, less porous, more
flexible, or faster curing than conventional concrete.
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Most of the polymer concrete manufactured
is used to resurface existing concrete slabs. It's expensive
and messy to remove and replace an existing concrete slab.
So if the existing slab is structurally sound, it's cheaper
and easier to top it with a thin polymer overlay. Common applications
include the repair of spalled or damaged surfaces on bridge
decks, parking garages, and factory floors. Polymer concrete
is much more expensive than Portland cement, so it's usually
applied as a thin overlay, typically between 1/8 and 1/2 inch
thick. Some products are formulated to go on thicker, while
others can be taken to a feather edge.
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| After removing linoleum
tile and scraping away the loose mastic from this wood
underlayment (top), a worker lays down NobleSeal CIS crack
isolation membrane (above). A layer of diamond lath will
I follow. |
The featured "courtyard style"
residence, designed by Hayer Magnus Architects of San Diego,
was "inspired by the client's appreciation of Arts and
Crafts architecture in a modem, open plan layout. Indoor rooms
open to outdoor spaces that encourage al fresco dining and
gathering," explains Hector Magnus, fomer Principal Architect,
now in his own practice.
According to Magnus, the terracing,
landscape and hardscape designs were created to capture views
towards the Monterey Peninsula. The south-facing courtyard,
which includes a negativeedge pool and outdoor sitting area
with fireplace, utilizes the prevailing breezes for natural
cooling in the warmer months and captures solar energy for
warming in the cooler months. The design also features radiant
heat underneath the outdoor patio for year-round eating and
entertaining.
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