101 Reasons to Use Concrete

Interesting Facts About The History Of Concrete and Compelling Benefits Of This Versatile Material

Home landscaping projects have come a really long way in the past twenty years or so; more materials and techniques than ever before are being used to help homeowners enhance the beauty and aesthetic quality of their yards. Many people are undoubtedly surprised when they hear their professional landscaping contractor utter the word "concrete" in conjunction with their upcoming beautification project; after all, many view concrete as being a dull, gray, lifeless material that is useful only for killing grass and ruining the natural beauty of an area and its surroundings. Like many other home landscaping materials, though, concrete has changed a lot in recent years and is being used in many compelling ways to lend a surprising depth and elegance to many home landscaping projects. If you think you know concrete, think again; below, we present 101 reasons why you or your contractor should use this incredible material for your next project. We've also thrown in a few little-known facts about the history of concrete into the mix - along with some exciting potential uses for it in the future.

1. With so much talk about green living and saving the planet, it's surprising how few people are aware of the Earth-friendly characteristics of concrete. Concrete is the original recyclable material; although it can withstand the test of time effortlessly, it can also be broken up, hauled away and reused in other applications with little effort. Rather than contributing to the already-full landfills dotting the planet, used concrete can be recycled again and again - without any special processing or major expense. If you're intent on using environmentally friendly materials for your home landscaping project, you should look no further than concrete.

2. Concrete can be used as a very effective sound barrier for people who live in an area with a lot of traffic or other noise pollution. By erecting thick - yet attractive - concrete walls, you can easily deflect a great deal of noise that may be coming from a nearby highway, freeway, busy road or intersection. Many people combine concrete walls with retaining walls and landscaped earth to create a pleasing look that masks its true purpose. There's no need to slap a dull, utilitarian wall up between your home and the offending source of noise; concrete can be styled to seamlessly blend in and complement your yard's existing look - while creating a more peaceful environment.

3. As a material, concrete is not only naturally recyclable and reusable, but the concrete industry has been increasingly doing its part to improve energy efficiency and process cement in Earth-friendly ways. Many major players in the concrete industry are investing in new technologies that allow them to produce this material while reducing their impact on the environment. When you or your contractor uses concrete, then, you can rest assured that it comes from an industry that cares about the future of our planet.

4. People have been turning to concrete for centuries for its strength and amazing durability. Indeed, concrete truly can stand the test of time, making it a very worthwhile investment in any home landscaping project. When you or your contractor uses concrete for various parts of your yard's design, you can rest assured that the end result will be something that is going to remain standing for many years to come. The likelihood of your concrete creation being inadvertently destroyed by bad weather or through other mishaps is exceedingly thin, making it a very safe bet for the long term integrity of your home's landscaping appeal.

5. Concrete is a great material for people who are sensitive to the chemicals found in many stains and polishes to use in their home landscaping projects; that's because concrete contains and emits no VOCs - volatile organic compounds. As anyone who suffers from allergies can tell you, VOCs are largely responsible for many people's incredible sensitivity to many types of finishing products. These odorless, invisible vapors seep into the surrounding air and ground and become unknowingly ingested by people. Concrete is favored by people with extreme chemical sensitivities because it has no VOCs and won't exacerbate existing conditions - or trigger new ones.

6. There are many excellent properties associated with concrete. One of the most-prized of these is its great insulating capabilities. When used in the exterior walls of a home, concrete can help save a tremendous amount of energy - and lower gas or electric bills. That's because concrete deflects the heat from the sun, keeping a home as cool as possible. Alternatively, in the winter months concrete can help keep a home's heat contained within its walls, preventing it from seeping out and being lost to the outdoors. Concrete is just one of those materials that keeps you cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter - a truly versatile combination.

7. Today, concrete can be combined with many different materials to give it a rich and elegant look. The creative use of various materials with concrete creates some truly unique, one-of-a-kind styles for many homes. For instance, concrete can be given a "rock salt" finish - a richly textured, rocky appearance that is also light and doesn't overwhelm the entire look of a building or a landscaping project. The rock salt finish used in concrete can lend added depth and style to the overall look of a home's yard; a professional contractor will know how to use this finish for maximum effect, and can use it to enhance your home's appeal.

8. Many people commonly confuse the terms "concrete" and "cement," in many cases using them interchangeably. However, these terms do refer to two entirely different things. Essentially, cement is a component of concrete; you cannot have concrete without cement. The cement actually binds the other materials found in concrete together. Cement is not used to create the many dazzling effects found in home landscaping projects around the world, though; that honor belongs to concrete.

9. What exactly is concrete? It is surprising how many people use and rely on the material for different things in their life without really knowing or understanding what it is made of. Essentially, concrete is comprised of water, an aggregate (like rock, sand and/or gravel) and Portland cement. Portland cement is the most common type of cement in the world and is largely what gives concrete its many excellent qualities. When these three materials are used in combination, you have concrete which is going to be versatile, durable and incredibly strong.

10. In today's troubling economy, it is important to note that the concrete industry is a major employer in the United States. Many jobs have been created throughout the years in the concrete industry - and many people revolve their entire careers around it. Indeed, in the United States the concrete industry is a $35 billion industry and employs more than two million people. Because concrete is used in so many different applications, there's little doubt about the staying power of this incredibly strong industry, either; despite the fluctuations of the world's economy, people will always rely on concrete for many different reasons.

11. While many materials only work well in certain environments or in particular climates - adobe, for example, is best used in the American southwest or other dry, arid regions of the world - concrete is great because it can be used in any environment imaginable. No matter what part of the world you live in - or what type of weather your home is routinely subjected to - you can rest assured that concrete can handle the job admirably. It's not surprising that so many contractors recommend this material to their clients; when in doubt, concrete is sure to withstand any elements that might be thrown at it.

12. As a homeowner looking to revamp your yard and give your landscaping a face lift, it is understandable to be concerned about the costs associated with doing so. Fortunately, concrete is one of the most affordable materials to work with in construction. In addition to its many other excellent properties, concrete is a low cost material that can dramatically reduce the overall budget for virtually any project. With concrete, you can actually afford to dream big and plan a more extensive project than you would otherwise be able to; the sky can pretty much become the limit, since procuring ample quantities of concrete is hardly an expensive proposition.

13. Further evidence of concrete's surprising characteristics lies in the fact that it can create excellent acoustics for those concerned about such things. Even though concrete can be a very good sound barrier, it can also amplify and enhance the sounds produced within four walls. Many contractors rely on the properties of concrete to create perfect acoustics within a concert hall or other performance area. It is a low cost way of making sound carry quite far, allowing everyone in a venue to enjoy the music, singing or other art being performed. Many people specialize in using concrete to enhance the acoustics of existing buildings, as well.

14. Thomas Edison - widely considered to be the most important and prolific inventor in modern times - was a major proponent of the properties of concrete. In fact, Edison created a batch of concrete houses whose properties he regaled to a rapt audience. Edison ticked off many fine qualities of concrete: fireproof, insect proof, easy to clean and so on. Unfortunately, this was one invention that didn't work out for the famous inventor. While his concrete house idea never took off, his claims about the great characteristics of concrete were valid and helped increase the popularity of the versatile material.

15. Pervious concrete is becoming increasingly popular in home landscaping projects. That's because it can absorb water, reducing the annoying and aggravating puddles that can accumulate after a heavy rainfall. No one wants unsightly puddles marring the look of their yard, and pervious concrete eliminates this problem quite effectively. Pervious concrete is also good for the integrity of a yard's soil, allowing it to continue being nourished by rain; this actually helps maintain the stability of the overlying concrete structure or pathway as well.

16. Far from only offering the standard, dull grayish color that is most often associated with concrete, today the material can be enhanced with many different gorgeous colors. Contractors can assist homeowners in selecting colored concrete that sets off the existing look of their home and its landscaping in a subtle yet attractive way. Virtually any color imaginable can be lent to concrete, giving it a lot of pizazz or imbuing it with a tasteful dose of understated color. The choice is always completely up to the homeowner, who is sure to be spellbound by the incredible array of possibilities that colored concrete has to offer.

17. Concrete is an excellent material to use around inground or underground swimming pools; that's because it can be designed to be slip-resistant, increasing the safety of everyone who spends time near the water. Parents are particularly glad to use slip resistant concrete in the design of their pool's patio or deck, since it can help reduce their fears of a child inadvertently slipping and hurting themselves. Slip resistant concrete can perform its duties while maintaining the attractive and aesthetic qualities of the entire pool area. Concrete once again comes to the rescue in this situation, effortlessly combining style with function.

18. It is becoming more and more common to run into commercial buildings that use sparkling concrete to create a really strong impression in the people who walk on it. When laid out beneath strategically placed lights, sparkling concrete can be a surprising addition to any building. Homeowners can even get in on the act, if they want to; a small dose of sparkle can give a home's landscaping a magical, ethereal look that may create a wonderland quality. Depending on the look that you're going for, this might be just what is needed.

19. Concrete can be used to create permeable paving stones, which are becoming increasingly in demand by homeowners and business owners alike. Permeable pavers - as they are often referred - can be laid out in any design imaginable. Grass and other plants can then grow through the special nature of the concrete, allowing it to blend in seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Many homeowners have used permeable pavers to create parking areas that grow grass and that avoid traditional driveway looks altogether. Permeable concrete pavers allow a home or business to maintain the integrity of the ground while letting nature do its thing.

20. The use of concrete in retaining walls has long been immensely popular. Concrete is flexible enough to allow homeowners to create retaining walls that prevent erosion and slippage in their landscaping - all while masking their purpose by being stunningly attractive. Concrete retaining walls can be designed with hollow cavities throughout, where homeowners can grow plants, flowers or anything else imaginable. This can help break up the look of regular retaining walls, adding a dose of color through strategically placed plants and flowers.

21. Unlike many home landscaping materials, concrete is very low maintenance. There is no real upkeep associated with concrete, other than maybe sweeping it off and rinsing it with water from time to time. In general, though, the natural elements of the outdoors work well enough to keep concrete looking its best. Busy homeowners appreciate not having to constantly work to keep their concrete landscaping in shape; it is just one more thing that they do not need to worry about, making it that much more attractive to work with.

22. Homeowners who wish to add stairs or steps to their outdoor landscaping often find that concrete is the best way to go. Rather than being restricted by having to use premanufactured steel staircases, a person can create truly one-of-a-kind steps for their yard that will blend in and go with the rest of the design perfectly. Skilled contractors can show homeowners the many different design possibilities of using concrete to create steps and stairs for their yard; no matt

23. Depending one how extensive or minimal a staircase needs to be, concrete is adaptable and versatile enough to serve the purpose perfectly.23. Paving stones - or pavers - have been wildly popular in Europe for centuries and are really catching on in popularity in the United States. Homeowners are discovering the incredible possibilities of working with these items, and concrete pavers are among the most in-demand. Concrete pavers come in endless shapes, sizes, colors and designs, allowing homeowners to lay them out in compelling ways to enhance and add a bit of real art to the look of their landscaping. When compared with other types of pavers, concrete pavers are also very affordable; people with all different sorts off budgets will find that working with concrete pavers is well within their means.

24. In addition to adding slip resistance to a pool deck or pool patio, concrete can be poured in any shape a person could want. Since many pools themselves have unique shapes, this feature of concrete is tremendously important, allowing homeowners to extend the aesthetic appeal of their pool to its surrounding patio or deck. Many times, concrete is poured to mimic the existing shape of the pool; other times, concrete pavers are laid out to add a bit of texture and surprising style to enhance the appeal of the pool and the yard's landscaping as a whole. No matter what look you're going for, concrete simply works well with pool decks.

25. Concrete is the preferred material of many homeowners, contractors and businesses because it allows them to create a uniform look. No matter what element of a yard or other area is being designed, concrete can be used to help it match or go well with the other items. This creates a seamless, appealing set that is uninterrupted by mismatched or unappealing materials. Many people feel that such a fluid style works best for their yards, and they are routinely thrilled with the results that well-styled concrete can give their projects. When additional items are being placed in a yard, concrete can be used, allowing them to blend in with ease.

26. Curbing and borders can be easily created on a case-by-case basis by using concrete. When a homeowner wants to create borders for flower beds or curbing for their driveway or other parts of their yard, concrete can be used to create professional looking results. With concrete, no breaks or interruptions in the flow of such items is necessary; one seamless, fluid, curving curb or border can be designed to give a yard a stunning, flowing look. Many professional contractors can create these curbs and borders for homeowners eager to take advantage of their style and appeal.

27. The first concrete street in the United States was built in the year 1891 in Bellefontaine, Ohio. Incredibly, this same street is still in use to this day. This highlights the amazing durability of concrete; a single street has survived more than one hundred years because it is made out of this amazing material. History buffs who pass near Bellefontaine - which is rougly between Lima and Columbus in the middle of the state - should make a point of checking out this modern marvel.

28. Although concrete is widely used in present times, it was heavily relied upon in ancient times. In fact, 5,300 miles of the roads in Ancient Rome were comprised of a kind of concrete. Even the most famous of these roads - the Appian Way - used concrete to make it resilient and long lasting. The ancient Romans already knew what people in later times would confirm for themselves: that concrete is a truly time-tested material that can withstand a great deal of wear, tear and abuse.

29. Placing sculptures in and around one's yard and garden is a popular thing to do; homeowners are always looking for unique examples of statues to lend their landscaping some colorful flair, and to give their yards a dose of personality. Concrete is the most popular material used to create these ubiquitous sculptures and statues, since it can be kept outside without incurring any major erosion, damage or fading. Whether you are looking for a cute animal sculpture or a crafty looking gnome statue to enhance your yard, you can bet that one is available somewhere - and that it is made out of concrete.

30. Many people think of solid stretches of uniform looking materials when they think of concrete; however, it can be imbued with incredibly intricate details featuring virtually anything a homeowner can imagine. Skilled contractors will know a variety of different ways to give concrete specialized looks through small yet clever details. Whether its a walkway, path, driveway, patio or other component of a yard, concrete can be made unique in each and every application. With concrete, there is no reason why any two yards have to look anything close to alike; you can achieve phenomenal results each and every time.

31. It is interesting to note that concrete is actually the most-used man made material in the entire world. Even when stacked up against popular materials like plastic, steel and others, concrete is far and away the most popular. Its ability to be used in so many different ways and for so many different applications is surely a huge part of its widespread use. Also, concrete can be made virtually anywhere, allowing people far and wide to take advantage of its many great properties. As a piece of trivia, this is an interesting fact to regale friends, family and coworkers with; many will be surprised to learn it.

32. As the use of decorative concrete becomes more and more popular around the United States and around the world, it is important to note that it uses no finishing materials to achieve its specialized appearance. Decorative concrete of all kinds is designed without the use of toxic finishing products, making it free of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and much more easy on people who are sensitive to such substances. Even if you are very sensitive to many materials, you can take advantage of decorative concrete - including stamped and colored varieties - to lend your home landscaping great appeal.

33. Many major cities have implemented the use of concrete throughout their design; city planners have discovered that concrete can help lower the temperature of inner cities dramatically. It's light reflecting properties is part of the reason for this; concrete does not absorb heat from the sun very well, meaning that it lessens the phenomenon of bottled-up heat on city streets to occur. Anyone who has spent any time in the inner city in August knows how hot it can get, but concrete helps deal with this problem in an attractive and flexible way. It's just one more example of how concrete improves the lives of many people.

34. Concrete can be given many different looks through various textures. Some concrete can be given a sandpaper like appearance, while other types of concrete can be given an even "bumpier" appearance. Stamps can be used to imprint circles, squares or any other kind of shape into the facade of concrete, making it both look and feel interesting. There really are endless ways to give concrete fascinating textures, and those textures can lend a yard's landscaping a really stunningly diverse look. Skilled contractors can help homeowners learn more about the textural possibilities of concrete.

35. Pet owners are understandably concerned about keeping their beloved animals safely contained with their backyard; if an animal gets away, it can run into all sorts of trouble. In lieu of traditional, unattractive chain link fences, concrete can be used to design very pleasing looking fences. Regardless of how high the fence needs to be - or whether it needs to be set deeply into the ground or use many different gates or other means of entry - concrete is a great material to use to create the precise kind of fence you need.

36. The Seattle Space Needle - built for the 1962 World's Fair - was created using massive amounts of concrete. In fact, the largest continuous concrete pour in history was used to create the Space Needle's foundation. More than 6,000 tons of concrete was used for the purpose, and it must have been quite an amazing sight for those who were present! The Space Needle remains standing to this day, engaging visitors to this northwestern city with excellent views and charming them with its unique design - none of which would be possible without concrete.

37. When you hire an experienced and professional contractor to work on your landscaping projects, he or she has hundreds of different mixes of concrete to choose from. Each different type of concrete has its own special characteristics that lend themselves well to various applications. A person who is knowledgeable about the different varieties of concrete available will be able to select the precise one that will achieve the exact results that you want. With concrete, it's all in the mix - and knowing which mixes work with what applications is very valuable indeed.

38. Just as different textures can be given to concrete - making it pop out and lend a yard or home a unique look - it can also be polished down to an incredibly fine finish. People assume that concrete is always rough and untouchable, but when it is polished the right way it can have an almost powdery consistency. In other cases, it can be polished to a glossy finish and may even look more like plastic than concrete. The different looks that concrete can be given through various polishing techniques really are astonishing - and are further examples of the ways this material can be used to create stunning looks.

39. Recently, many new types of concrete are being developed that may offer even more benefits to people around the world. One of the most exciting of these is so-called smog eating concrete. This specialized blend of concrete has properties that allows it to dissolve pollutants that it comes into contact with. Smog eating concrete uses a material called titanium dioxide to perform this feat, and holds promise for highly polluted areas of the world - especially inner cities, where the constant traffic and various industries conspire to make the air and the environment quite dirty.

40. A fun project that families can do together involving concrete is making a slab with their hand prints embedded into it. Homeowners can create simple frames into which they can pour a quantity of concrete. When the concrete gets to a proper dryness - but not entirely set - each member of the family can place their hand into it, creating a hand print kind of like those found on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The date and each person's name can be included, and this can be done each year or so as way to reflect on the past.

41. Stencils can be used to give concrete a variety of fascinating different looks. Professional contractors can use stencils to make concrete look like laid brick or random-looking stone. Other stencils lend concrete a textured appearance, including wood grain and other natural textures. Homeowners who are interested in using this excellent concrete technique should consult with an experienced contractor who can help them achieve the precise look they want - all using well designed stencils. Concrete stencils come in a stunning array of choices, allowing people to unleash their creativity.

42. Although it is very rare, concrete does occasionally become damaged. Sometimes, it was not used in the proper way to begin with; structurally unsound, it gradually develops cracks over the years. Other times, circumstances beyond our control can cause damage to even the strongest concrete in a home's landscaping. Fortunately, concrete is easily repairable; an experienced contractor will be able to eliminate unsightly cracks and other problems in such a way that you could never tell damage existed in the first place.

43. Many people enjoy using concrete because it can be engraved with various things quite easily. Sometimes, patterns are engraved into concrete to give it a special look; other times, people engrave words, dates or other writing to personalize their landscaping projects and make them more unique. For instance, a concrete pathway can be engraved with the date that a home was built - or with the last name of the current owners. There are endless ways to engrave concrete to give it a truly personal edge. Another great way to engrave concrete is by monogramming it with the homeowner's initials; this can give landscaping a professional quality.

44. Scottsdale, Arizona's Pima Freeway - also known as Loop 101 - takes decorative concrete to the highest possible level. Throughout the length of this freeway, intriguing images are imprinted including lizards and other animals. As drivers pass by, they are entertained by the vivid imagery used in the concrete. With more than 90 individually designed images, this is far from a boring, patterned design; it is true artwork, and since it's in such an unusual place it is definitely well worth seeing. It is known as "The Path Most Traveled" and also uses distinct colors to enhance the images that are engraved along its length, creating visually stunning results.

45. Rather than purchase regular patio sets at the local chain store, many homeowners are opting for far more unique looks by creating specialized benches, tables and other items out of concrete. With the help of professional contractors, these items can be designed on a case by case basis, and can incorporate a breathtaking number of different elements. Unlike regular patio furniture, concrete benches, chairs, tables and other items can last for many years and require very little maintenance or cleaning. They can be designed with the overall look of a home's landscaping in mind, making them excellent enhancements.

46. Concrete can be coated with a variety of different substances to give it many spectacular looks. Rubberized materials can be used to coat concrete, giving it a striking appearance. Heavy duty - yet attractive - paint can be applied to concrete to make it more shiny and sophisticated. A contractor with an ample amount of experience will be aware of many different ways in which you can coat concrete in your home's landscaping to expand the possibilities a great deal. When used with other design strategies, coated concrete is a real winner.

47. Every day, people all around the world pass by numerous examples of well designed concrete. In fact, in the United States alone there are more than 55,000 miles of concrete highway. This means that many people travel on concrete highways every single day of their lives. The freeway system is such an important part of the culture and transportation in the United States that the role concrete plays in it just cannot be under emphasized. Without concrete, the ubiquitous nature of the highways in America would be far less possible. Concrete plays a role in many commuter's life on a regular basis.

48. For the do-it-yourself types among us, concrete is a wonderful material to work with. With a hammer, some nails and a few pieces of wood, you can create totally unique frames to pour concrete into and place around your yard. Many people find that they can use this technique to design special stepping stones in their gardens, or leading up to their front doors. The end result can be further enhanced with engravings, embossing designs, decorative pieces or other items. They can even be engraved with words or dates, making them informative as well as functional. By doing a little experimenting, homeowners can enjoy this fun hobby on a regular basis - and for very little money.

49. For years, concrete overlays were used by contractors and other professionals to cover up flaw or damages on existing pathways, patios and other things. Today, concrete overlays have moved beyond simply repair functionality and are being used as design elements in and of themselves. These overlays are increasingly being offered with many great patterns and designs that really enhance the look of a yard or other area - without requiring a major overhaul or a tremendous amount of work. For a quick face lift to a yard's landscaping, concrete overlays are excellent options.

50. From a safety standpoint, concrete has many amazing qualities. Chief among those qualities is its fireproof characteristics. Concrete is not flammable, and when it is strategically placed it an act as a very effective barrier against fire. Many commercial buildings implement the use of concrete walls and other structures to lessen the chances of major fire damage occurring. It can also be used to help prevent the spread of fire, allowing firefighters more time to contain a blaze before it completely destroys a building. There is no question at all that concrete fire barriers have saved countless lives over the years - and have saved people a great deal of money.

51. Unlike many other materials, concrete does not need to be imported from other parts of the world. Things like marble and other natural stone come with hefty price tags because they must often travel long distances to get where they need to be. Concrete lends itself well to self sufficiency; virtually any community on earth has the materials necessary to create functional concrete. This helps keep the price very low, making it a practical item to use from an economical standpoint.

52. Homeowners who want to add the appeal of winding, curving walkways to their landscaping will find that concrete is a great material with which to do so. Whether its in the form of interlocking concrete pavers or poured concrete, it can be given that special winding, flowing look with ease by a professional contractor. Instead of boring, straight paths, a yard can be dramatically enhanced with artfully curved walkways that can be interspersed with excellent plants and flowers along the way. When combined with special lighting, for instance, such paths can be a gorgeous addition to home landscaping.

53. After water, concrete is the most consumed substance on Earth. This is not so surprising when one thinks about how many places concrete is used. Entire skyscrapers are made out of concrete, as well as thousands of miles of roads and freeways. Bridges, dams and other types of infrastructure are made out of this versatile material, too. Virtually anywhere you go, you can't help but run into an example of concrete. From the loftiest, fanciest buildings to the simplest, most utilitarian applications, concrete is incredibly ubiquitous and is turned to by designers, architects, homeowners, contractors and countless others all of the time.

54. Everything old is new again; this popular phrase is repeated often by those who are intrigued by old fashioned, time tested styles. With concrete, achieving an old fashioned appeal with your home's landscaping is very easy to do. Whether you want to use interlocking pavers to give your driveway, walkways or patio an old time, European edge or if you want to employ the use of decorative concrete to give a more weathered, Grecian appearance to your home, it is the best material around for getting the precise look that you're after.

55. People who prefer very clean, crisp and modern lines to their landscaping often find that concrete can help them achieve the best possible results. Since concrete can be molded and formed in virtually any configuration, it lends itself well to contemporary design. Accessories like lights and flower beds can be included and interwoven into these designs, making them that much more modern and appealing. By perusing a standard architectural or landscaping magazine, one can easily see how popular concrete is with modern design techniques - and will encounter many great ideas to fuel their imaginations.

56. In case you have any doubts about the popularity of concrete as a material in the United States, here's a stunning fact: for each person in the United States, 891 pounds of concrete are used each and every year. That is only a rough average, too; most likely, the number is even higher. Also, it is sure to increase with each passing year as concrete's appeal continues to spread and grow among homeowners and professional landscaping contractors. 891 pounds of anything is a lot, but 891 pounds of concrete is a truly staggering statistic - and one that will undoubtedly serve you well at gatherings when you wish to make peoples' jaws drop.

57. Boulders can be great additions to a home's landscaping; when placed strategically, they can break up a boring expanse of lawn or accentuate a flower garden. The only trouble with boulders is that they are hard to transport - and incredibly expensive to boot. Luckily, concrete can be used to create exquisite, artifical boulders that look exactly like the real thing, without the expense or the hassle of moving them. Many contractors can point you in the right direction for finding a professional company that can create concrete boulders for your landscaping project; you can select from many different styles, easily making your yard even more stylish.

58. Disney World is one of the most popular family destinations in the world; it is a wonderland where many beloved characters and far off lands all converge in one entertaining place. It is surprising to discover that many design elements around this resort are made up out of concrete. Obviously, Disney World is not a uniform, drab color; it is bursting with vivid shades and hues. That's because Disney World - like an increasing number of places around the world - uses colored, decorative concrete in much of its design. This world-class resort has realized that concrete has the kinds of properties that make it unbeatable to work with; if it's good enough for Disney, it should be good enough for anyone!

59. An exciting new development is occurring in the world of concrete: translucent concrete. This amazing new type of concrete is embedded with thousands of optical fibers that give it a light, airy and translucent look. Incredibly, light is able to pass through this material, turning the entire concept of concrete on its head. It was first invented by an architect in Hungary in 2001 and is quickly taking the design world by storm. Sidewalks in Stockholm used the material to create lighted sidewalks; there has even been talk of using translucent concrete in subway stations to reduce the dark, dismal look so common there.

60. People who wish to pay tribute to a loved one or a pet that has passed away often enjoy creating a tribute bench for them in their honor. Although these benches can be made out of many different materials, concrete is one of the most popular because it enables them to engrave the subject's name and other information quite easily. Also, concrete tribute benches can be designed to flow with the overall design of a home's landscaping, making it appear as a more natural part of the environment. In fact, some concrete tribute benches are even molded to look like tree branches - a stunning effect that also pays excellent homage to the person or pet being honored.

61. All too often, people consider their driveway strictly as the place where they park their vehicles; as such, it can stand out as a kind of eye sore when compared to the rest of a professionally landscaped yard. More and more, people are turning to innovative ways to use concrete paver in the design of their driveways. Because concrete paving stones can interlock and be in many different colors, shapes, sizes and textures, they are great to use in such applications. Rather than park a car on a boring, traditional driveway, homeowners are discovering that interlocking concrete pavers create driveways that stun with their appeal.

62. The tallest building in the world - the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - stand at an amazing 1,378 feet tall and are largely made up out of concrete. The architects who designed this amazing structures implemented concrete in their design because they knew that this material was up to the job. Many other skyscrapers use incredible amounts of concrete to achieve their unbelievable heights, including the world's second-highest building the Mao Tower in Shanghai; that building stands at 1,371 feet. Indeed, wherever you see a skyscraper you can bet that a great portion of it is comprised of concrete.

63. There are many different forms of concrete that one can use in various projects; high performance concrete (HPC) is a preferred material that is widely used in the construction industry. This type of concrete must meet various standards and exhibit special types of uniformity to make it able to withstand many different environments. When construction companies use high performance concrete, they are ensuring that whatever they are building will be as durable and well made as possible; more and more projects are implementing the use of this exciting material.

64. Rubberized asphalt concrete has been around for a long time, and is often used on playgrounds and other areas to minimize the possibility of injuries due to falls. After all, one of the biggest drawbacks to concrete is that it is incredibly hard and unforgiving to people who fall on it. Recently, an exciting new sort of rubberized concrete known as rubberized Portland cement concrete, or rubberized PCC, has been undergoing development. It is believed that this new material may very well revolutionize the concrete industry, and give a whole new exciting way to use concrete in various projects.

65. It is believed that a form of concrete may have been used during the construction of the Great Pyramids in Egypt more than 5,000 years ago. If true, this means that concrete has truly been used for thousands of years; considering the incredibly longevity of those pyramids, they may very well be testaments to the durability of concrete. Either way, there is no doubt that the ancient Egyptians were incredible designers and architects; if they used concrete, there are few better endorsements that a material can possibly get.

66. Although concrete was definitely used by the ancient Romans in many applications - including their famous roads - the recipe for it was lost for many centuries. Then in the year 1756 a British engineer rediscovered it, quickly making it a popular material to use in many different kinds of construction. There is no question that the discovery of concrete helped spur the amazing construction boom that followed over the next couple of centuries, as creating permanent structures became more affordable and easy to design than ever before - all thanks largely to the properties of concrete.

67. Interlocking concrete pavers are being used more and more in the design of very stylish patios. With their dazzling array of colors, shapes, sizes and other characteristics, concrete paving stones are wonderful to work with when trying to create comfortable patios that are true extensions of a homeowner's style. Among paving stones, concrete is the most popular material due to its strength and affordability; indeed, you can design a very roomy patio with concrete pavers for a fraction of the cost of many other materials.

68. Amazingly, nine billion cubic yards of concrete are poured each and every year around the world. With a volume that high, it is no wonder that you see concrete everywhere you look. However, the new styles being implemented in concrete make recognizing it much trickier than it was in the past; among those nine billion cubic yards, many consist of highly decorated and colored forms of the material which wouldn't be considered to be actual concrete by many people. Regardless, concrete in its many forms and incarnations is without a doubt a very popular material and will continue to be so for centuries to come.

69. Swimming pools can be wonderful additions to a person's home; in terms of entertainment and exercise, they are really great. They can also be designed out of many different materials, but concrete is definitely the preferred one for many contractors. That's because concrete is far less likely to incur damage when used in underground pools; it can withstand abuse that plastics and other materials simply cannot. It is not unusual at all to visit a home that has a fifty year old inground pool - and to find out that it is made of concrete. For long lasting pools that survive through the decades, concrete just can't be beat.

70. Fly ash - a by-product of coal fired power plants - is being used more and more in the composition of concrete. This is a great form of recycling that takes a material that would otherwise go into a landfill and using it for a productive purpose. Environmentalists are understandbly cheered and thrilled by this practice, and it is only bound to become more common as time goes on. Also, fly ash reduces the amount of cement needed to create concrete, another great boon to the environment since cement production can produce a great deal of carbon dioxide in the air.

71. During Roman and Egyptian times, it was discovered the using volcanic ash as an ingredient in concrete allowed it to set even when underwater. This proved to be a very valuable characteristic, allowing ancient builders to create ever more impressive creations. It also reconfirmed the growing belief that concrete could withstand many different environments and forms of abuse wrought by the weather. After all, if it could set and harden underwater then surely it could withstand a rain storm or more extreme temperatures. This discovery also began a long history of adding different ingredients to concrete to change and enhance its properties.

72. The Romans also made other interesting discoveries by adding different ingredients into the concrete that they developed. For example, they learned that horse hair helped prevent cracking in concrete; they began including it in many applications in order to reduce cracks and other structural problems. In a rather morbid twist, Romans also learned that adding blood to concrete helped to protect it from frost. Fortunately, blood is no longer a necessary ingredient in concrete as today's manufacturers have developed more palatable ways to protect it against frost.

73. The most commonly used type of concrete is reinforced concrete. The reinforcement that is used typically comes in the form of rebar, steel and various structural fibers. Reinforced concrete is used for creating and designing the soaring skyscrapers that are so often associated with large, bustling cities like New York and Chicago. However, reinforced concrete is also found in many more modest applications, like commercial buildings and even many residential ones. By reinforcing concrete with steel and other materials, buildings can be imbued with incredible strength and durability.

74. Acid stains are increasingly being used on concrete in landscaping applications. These stains take dull, boring concrete and transform it into many more exciting textures and styles. One very popular way to use acid stains is to create marble-like concrete; the result is usually flawless, and many people will be convinced that it is actually marble. This is a much more affordable way to achieve a marble look that using the real thing, which can cost tremendous amounts of money. Acid stains can also give multiple hues and coloring to concrete, making it that much more unique.

75. Outdoor furniture can be molded out of concrete and made to resemble actual works of art in many cases. With concrete, one's imagination can truly go wild; the artistic type can craft incredible types of furniture by using simple concrete as a base material. This base can then be embellished with many other design elements, like colors, textures and other exciting characteristics. The end result will be a stunning addition to any yard that is sure to have visitors asking where they can purchase one. If you are not artistically inclined, you can easily find a professional to design something unique out of concrete on your behalf.

76. Using a grill or a barbecue is a very popular thing for many homeowners to do; outdoor cooking is a fun way to enhance a party or a get together during the spring or summer months. Many homeowners are taking things one step further by designing outdoor kitchens in their backyards. Concrete is the preferred material for such creations, which usually involve tastefully designed outdoor counters and other food preparation surfaces which can double as serving platforms as well. By incorporating things like stencils, colored concrete and other elements, an outdoor kitchen can be every bit as breathtaking as an indoor one - and can make your yard "the place to be" for outdoor parties.

77. Concrete is a great material to supervise kids with in creating unique and lasting works of art. In addition to making molds of their hand prints or foot prints, children can use concrete to write their names and other information for posterity. There's no question that kids like carving into wet concrete; the evidence for that lies in the many kids caught each year defacing freshly laid sidewalks and roads. Therefore, giving them an opportunity to experiment with the material in a supervised setting can be a delightful way for them to unleash a little bit of creativity.

78. A hilly yard - or one that has poor soil composition - is at a far greater risk of erosion than many others. In such cases, retaining walls can be priceless tools for preventing erosion and maintaining the integrity of a yard's landscaping. Of all the possible materials used to create retaining walls, concrete is the most preferred by the most contractors. Wood can rot away over time, causing the need for replacement; concrete retaining walls, though, can last for decades. In terms of investments, it is simply the best way to design retaining walls that last and that are financially responsible.

79. When looking at using concrete in the design of your home's landscaping, make sure that you seek out contractors who have proven and demonstrated experience in working with concrete. They should be able to show you examples of their past work, and should also be able to clearly explain the many ways concrete can be used to enhance your yard. Simply settling for a random contractor with no demonstrated experience in working with concrete means you probably won't be able to take advantage of everything that this amazing material has to offer. Don't settle for less - hire experienced concrete professionals every time.

80. Recycled glass is being used more and more in the composition of various types of concrete. Glass gives the concrete a much more aesthetic appeal in many cases, and homeowners often opt to use concrete with recycled glass for their landscaping projects. On top of the boost it gives to a yard's look, this concrete is beneficial because it uses recycled materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill. People who use this material can feel good about doing their own small part to help the environment.

81. Formliners are exciting molds that are used to form incredible patterns into what would otherwise be boring concrete walls. More and more construction and design companies are using formliners to add aesthetic appeal to utilitarian walls. These walls commonly appear along highways, in parks, around neighborhoods and in many other places; in some cases, they are situated along waterfronts in major cities. When formliners are used with concrete, amazing results can occur which can greatly beautify the surrounding area and give it extra depth and appeal.

82. There are many examples of massive concrete structures; in the United States, one of the most famous is undoubtedly the Hoover Dam on the border of Nevada and Arizona. This modern marvel is made up of more than 3,220,000 cubic yards of concrete and serves to tame the mighty Colorado River. There is no doubt about the strength and durability of the Hoover Dam, making it a true testament to the incredibly properties and possibilities of concrete. If you are ever near Las Vegas, you would be well advised to pay a visit to this incredible structure.

83. Tornado shelters use poured concrete to ensure their safety features; the theory behind them is that since there are no "seams", they are much more structurally sound and better able to protect people from these violent forces of nature. Anyone living in a tornado-prone part of the United States has likely spent some time in a tornado shelter, and can recall that they are, indeed, seamless. This is a very innovative way of using concrete, and yet another example of the many ways in which this material works to protect people around the world and enrich their lives.

84. Concrete can be treated with different types of sealant, giving it a glossy finish and protecting it from the elements. This is especially useful around inground pools, where chlorine and other chemicals can damage concrete over time. Also, regular patios can enjoy a very professional and stylish look with the right dose of sealant. More and more contractors are offering their customers this service with the patios, decks, walkways and other projects they design, providing yet another way to enhance the sophistication and allure of different areas around the yard.

85. Many special, adhesive backed stencils are also available for use with concrete. These are being designed in an ever increasing number of styles, ranging from solid colors to marble looks to brick or stone patterns. They bond directly with concrete, making them durable and attractive. Homeowners looking to do something completely different with their existing concrete - or those who want to create entirely new concrete structures - can use adhesive backed stencils for great effect.

86. Although some people are tempted to try using special outdoor rugs and other materials on the floors of their decks or patios, it is important to note that such materials often contain VOCs (volatile organic compounds) which can irritate sensitive airways and create allergic reactions in many people. Also, using rugs outdoors can encourage the growth of mold, which is never a good thing. By sticking to stylish looking types of concrete, you can rest assured that you are not exposing your family and loved ones to VOCs or molds that might compromise their health.

87. Creating your own frames to design different sorts of concrete artwork or other projects can be a lot of fun, lending your yard a more personalized look. Fortunately, doing this is quite easy; you don't need to be an artistic person by nature to work with concrete. It is very difficult to run into problems when using concrete, since it is a very intuitive material to work with. Most people are quite pleased with the results of the do-it-yourself projects they undertake with concrete; it is well worth a bit of experimenting to give your yard a wholly unique style.

88. Since concrete reflects light very well, it is a great material to use in areas of the yard that you want to spend time in during the warm summer months. It's not surprising at all that so many people opt to use concrete for their patios and pool decks; it reflects the sun away, and doesn't retain any appreciable amount of heat. The soles of one's feet won't get scorched when walking on concrete, making it much more pleasant than many other materials used in landscaping.

89. In landscaping applications, it is easy to use a blend of different techniques to create concrete patios, decks, walkways, driveways and other items that have incredibly unique looks. Between using different colors, textures, pavers, stencils and other things, you can come up with a combination that works amazingly well with your home's overall look. Friends and family are bound to be inspired when they see the amazing things you've accomplished by using concrete. It simply isn't possible to run out of fresh ideas when working with this flexible material.

90. One of the biggest concerns homeowners have when contacting a contractor for a new landscaping project is cost. Most people aim to spend as little money as possible; unfortunately, many landscaping materials are quite costly. However, concrete is a very budget friendly material that enables homeowners of all kinds to achieve amazing results with limited financial resources. By using a little bit of concrete, some excellent stencils, stamps, colors and a lot of imagination, the sky really can be the limit in working with concrete. If you have wanted to embark on a new look for your yard but have been hampered by the prohibitive cost of doing so, concrete should be at the top of your list.

91. Concrete can be used to create many other great areas around a home. Many people use it to create tennis courts where they can partake in entertaining tennis matches with their friends. Others use it to design basketball courts where friends and family can congregate to shoot some hoops. Still others use it to create a safe, paved area for their children to play around on bicycles, skateboards and rollerskates away from traffic and other dangerous things. Beyond the merely aesthetic, then, concrete can help you achieve all sorts of excellent additions to your home that are both entertaining and safety enhancing.

92. The world's longest cable stayed bridge is located in Jacksonville, Florida and largely uses concrete in its construction. Despite being made out of concrete, the bridge has an almost ephemeral look as it soars across the St. Johns River. This bridge - known as the Dames Point Bridge - is two miles long and is driven over by thousands of people each and every day. If you are ever in the Jacksonville, Florida area you should make it a point to drive over this incredible bridge; as you do so, keep in mind that it would not even exist without the amazing material we know as concrete.

93. Runways around the world use concrete because it can withstand the incredible weight and force of jumbo jets. These machines are incredibly heavy, and it would seem they could damage virtually anything they rolled across. However, concrete is more than capable of standing up to the burden. In many ways, concrete is partly responsible for the millions of safe take offs and landings that occur each and every year. Any time you are embarking on a trip via plane, remember to think of all the concrete rolling beneath the tires of the plane that you are sitting on, and be glad that this incredible material exists.

94. Homeowners who choose to use asphalt in lieu of concrete often regret their decision. Asphalt is not only unattractive, but it just isn't as durable as concrete. Over time, asphalt degrades and warps, becoming even more unsightly and ultimately has to be completely removed with great expense. Financially and aesthetically, concrete is the obvious choice for discerning homeowners who wish to have the most attractive, durable design possible for their landscaping. If a contractor ever tries to sell you on the concept of asphalt - which is very unlikely - make it clear that only concrete is good enough for you.

95. Thanks to concrete, driveways can be as elaborate and unique as you could possibly want. Many people find that circular driveways suit their needs the best, and they can achieve this look either with poured concrete or concrete paving stones. Interlocking concrete pavers can easily be used to create winding, circular shapes that dramatically enhance the appearance of a home's front yard. Poured concrete allows contractors to design seamless circular driveways that roll elegantly in front of a home. When colored concrete and other embellishments are added to the mix, a driveway never needs to be boring.

96. Concrete is an easily sustainable material, meaning that it doesn't require a lot of upkeep. When you invest in a concrete landscaping project - whether it be a driveway, pool deck, patio, walkway or other item - you're also investing in something that is easy to manage. You will not end up spending a lot of time keeping your concrete in good shape; it naturally withstands the elements quite gracefully. Like many people, you'd probably prefer to focus on gardening or other, more entertaining things around your yard; with concrete, you can do so much more easily and effortlessly.

97. Patterns can easily be embossed or stamped into concrete, giving it flair and a more unique look. Virtually any pattern imaginable can be worked into the design of a concrete object, and more and more homeowners are taking advantage of this phenomenon. Until concrete hardens, it is very receptive to patterns and embossings; once they are made and the concrete hardens, they are there to stay. Sophisticated methods have been developed in recent years for making patterned concrete more attractive and well designed than ever before; you can check with an experienced contractor about trying this out for your home's landscaping.

98. No matter how much time you plan to spend out on your patio - or how many people you plan to entertain on it throughout the year - concrete can help keep it looking great. Concrete paving stones and poured concrete can handle a tremendous amount of foot traffic; this makes sense, considering that runways and freeways are made out of concrete, therefore handling much heavier loads. Even if your backyard is revolving door of friends, family and other visitors, concrete can stand up to the task and remain looking as good as the day it was first installed - for many, many years.

99. When designing a backyard patio or deck with concrete, you can include many little touches that matter to you. Perhaps you'd like to have built in storage areas; those can be added and incorporated using concrete design methods. Inlaid lights and other types of lighting can be included in these plans, creating a seamless look that is both professional and sophisticated. Sitting areas can also be built into a concrete patio - benches and table are popular items with many homeowners. Between all of these elements, you can interchange various colors and looks, making a patio that will awe anyone who encounters it.

100. Once concrete is mixed in a plant, it takes on a liquid form and can be easily transported from place to place. This is another reason for the popularity of this material in construction: it is ready to use when it arrives on the site. All of the preparation is done at the plant, so it is not a hassle to use and doesn't interrupt the flow of the project. Homeowners benefit from this characteristic, too, because their contractor can get straight to work on their project without the need for a major amount of preparation.

101. Concrete is a great material to use for a plethora of excellent reasons. It is strong and durable, allowing it to last for years without worry; it can withstand a great deal of abuse, making it great for many purposes. Recent advances in landscaping design have helped make concrete a truly attractive material; it has come a very long way from the boring, gray look it was once known for. People who wish to take their landscaping project to the next level should definitely consider using this incredible material.

Although this list has outlined 101 different excellent reasons to use concrete - and many intriguing facts about it - it is really just the tip of the iceberg. For each individual homeowner, there is a unique and exciting different way to use concrete. Exploring different possibilities is one of the most important parts of achieving a truly excellent look for your home's landscaping; with concrete, you can easily explore thousands of choices without getting bored. Considering how long concrete has been relied upon by professional builders - including ancient Romans and Egyptians - there should be no doubt about whether or not it can achieve great results in your very own backyard.

Far from being a new fangled, experimental material, concrete is a time tested and trusted one that has been used for centuries by people who want sound construction that will last. From the Hoover Dam to the Petronas Towers to the Great Pyramids of Egypt, concrete has played a truly amazing role in design throughout history. With the help of a professional contractor, you can easily achieve any look imaginable by using concrete. If you can dream it up, it can probably be done with concrete.

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