Is a Concrete-Look Wall Really Concrete?

No. A concrete-look wall is not real concrete; it is a decorative finish a few millimetres thick, applied over the existing wall, that imitates the colour and texture of concrete. It adds no load to the wall and needs no formwork or pouring.

What is it made with?

Ready-made finishes with mineral fillers, based on lime, cement or acrylic, are used. The material is trowelled on in thin coats; the clouding left by the trowel gives the look of exposed concrete.

How it differs from real exposed concrete

• It can be applied over plasterboard, plaster and sound old paint.
• The colour can be chosen: light grey, anthracite or warm grey.
• Details such as formwork marks, joints and tie holes are added by hand if wanted.
• The surface is sealed with a protective coat, so it does not dust.

Where is it used?

Feature walls in living rooms and offices, café and shop walls, columns and the wall behind the TV are the most common places.

Does it not look cold?

On its own it can. Combined with wood, warm light and fabric it balances out; in most homes one concrete-effect wall rather than the whole room is enough. For colour and texture options see our concrete effect paint page.