Deactivated concrete or washed concrete is a concrete pouring technique carried out with the aim of obtaining a particular aesthetic result. It is obtained with the same materials as conventional concrete, namely aggregates, water and cement. In the end, we obtain a concrete with a gravelled appearance.
The positives and negatives
The main advantage of washed concrete is its aesthetic effect. To add a decorative touch to your exterior, this type of concrete is a very interesting alternative. With a wide choice of color pigments available, the result is even more exceptional. In addition, washed concrete is resistant to thermal shock and therefore has a longer lifespan. It does not require much maintenance and it stays cool during the summer. Finally, deactivated concrete is sturdy and non-slip. It is also practical for people with reduced mobility.
Alongside these advantages, the disadvantages are not numerous but are still significant. Indeed, the development of washed concrete is not a simple matter and is quite expensive. In particular, provision must be made for surface water drainage and a shrinkage joint.
Where to use deactivated concrete
Deactivated concrete is part of the decorative concrete family. They are particularly used for exterior coatings. Apart from deactivated concrete, we find in particular printed, stamped or trompe l’oeil concrete. They are appreciated for their resistance.
They are available in various shapes and colors and can very well imitate other forms of coverings such as wood, tiles or cobblestones. Laying decorative concrete is not always easy. However, those who have some experience in landscaping their exterior can get their hands dirty by following a few guidelines.
Steps for laying concrete
The first step is, of course, the preparation of the site. After delimiting the area intended for the laying of the concrete, we move on to the earthworks. Generally, 16 cm is enough for a driveway intended for a light car. Then we move on to compaction. At this stage, care must be taken to identify the slopes and the direction of the water flow. We then place the pavers that will serve as a border to the driveway. Before pouring the concrete, take care to protect the pavers with a waterproofing agent or wallpaper paste.
Once these prerequisites have been completed, we move on to the concreting stage. Generally, the services of a spinning top are used. However, it is possible to do the concrete yourself with the help of a few companions. In any case, this step is quite laborious and you have to act quickly because the concrete hardens quickly.
To obtain the effect of washed concrete, it is precisely necessary to slow down the hardening of the concrete on the surface. For this, we use a special sprayer that can be found from concrete suppliers. It is then necessary to wait for 24 hours, to carry out a high pressure cleaning which will reveal the aggregate and thus obtain a nice result.
Cost of laying concrete deactivated by a professional
What are the factors that vary the price of deactivated concrete?
The price of laying deactivated concrete can vary according to several criteria:
- The surface to be covered: the smaller the surface to be covered, the higher the price per m² will be, the prices practiced being decreasing.
- The thickness needed: obviously, the greater the thickness, the more deactivated concrete you will need, so the higher the cost will be.
- The state of the field
- The cost of labor charged by the service provider
- The cost of materials
- The cost of equipment rental
- The duration of the work: this can vary according to the surface to be covered, the preparation of the ground, the climate and the weather. Count about 2 days for a small terrace of 20 m².
What is the price of deactivated concrete?
The price of deactivated concrete alone varies according to the surface to be covered. For a so-called small surface, the area of which does not exceed 25 m², count around 150 euros per m². On the other hand, to cover a large area, the average price of deactivated concrete will be 30 euros per m².
What is the cost of laying deactivated concrete by a professional?
The price for laying deactivated concrete is indicated in its entirety. It includes the cost of earthworks – in other words the preparation of the ground – the cost of formwork, the cost of materials and the cost of installation.
- For a surface of 1 m² to 25 m²: count 160 euros to 190 euros per m².
- For a surface of 25 m² to 50 m²: count 80 euros to 100 euros per m².
- For a surface of 50 m² to 100 m²: count 50 euros to 70 euros per m².
- For a surface of 100 m² to 200 m²: count 40 euros to 60 euros per m².
Thus, as an indication, count on average 3,500 euros for a terrace of 20 m², and on average 5,400 euros for a large room of 90 m².
How to find the right professional?
Get quotes from different deactivated concrete laying professionals and compare their offers. If possible, find out about their previous services so that you don’t choose an installer based solely on the cost of their work. Quality is important because not all deactivated concretes age the same. For a quality floor, prepare your project and compare!