Why Should I Seal My Concrete??

Concrete is perhaps one of the most commonly used materials in building construction and is arguable the most durable. While concrete can withstand most any element and is incredibly durable, it is also vulnerable and needs an extra layer of protection. Sealing concrete will increase the strength, durability and will extend the life of your concrete for multiple years to come!

Most people don’t understand why a material that is a tough as concrete needs to be protected. A fault with concrete is that it is incredibly porous; thus allowing fluid to be absorbed within. As the fluid gathers it weakens the overall structure and integrity of the concrete. If you live in an area where temperatures drop to below freezing, this can also create a problem for your concrete. If water has gathered within the cracks and crevices of the concrete and freezes, it will expand and cause visible cracks in the surface.

Concrete sealers can work in a couple of different ways; the first is a sealer called film forming sealers. Film forming sealers create a barrier that is waterproof, as long as the sealer is not damaged in any way after it is applied, the concrete underneath will stay dry. Another form of concrete sealer is a penetrating sealer. Penetrating sealers will infiltrate through the concrete which waterproofs as it penetrates.

A concrete sealer will act as a barrier and block the porous spaces from allowing water and other fluids to fill. In addition, a concrete sealer will strengthen the concrete and can also help protect it from wear and tear. If you have concrete that you are considering sealing, do not hesitate to contact the contractors as Associated Group Remodeling. They have been doing this for over 25 years and can advise you.

Additional Resources:

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-concrete-sealer.htm

http://www.concretesealerfaq.com/concretesealant.htm

http://www.concretesealerfaq.com/

What is Polished Concrete?

Traditionally when people imagine concrete floors, the vision that comes to mind is one that is drab, grey and dreary. However, concrete is now being used as a functional yet beautiful flooring for many new buildings and homes. As opposed to the porous grey concrete that we are all used to, polished concrete creates a beautiful flooring that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable in nature.

When it comes to selecting colors and hues, there is a wide array to choose from. Depending on the overall look and visual texture you are trying to achieve, two colors can be mixed together to create the illusion of a stone or marble floor. With the help of the contractors at Associated Group Remodeling, you are only limited by your imagination with what you can do with concrete!

Polishing concrete requires several steps and offers several levels of sheen for the customer to choose from. Concrete can be polished to range from a satin to a high-gloss, essentially it depends on what your needs are and what the function is of the space. Polished concrete is suitable for spaces such as warehouses, retail stores, hotels, restaurants, office buildings, auto showrooms and private residences.

Sanding wood and polishing concrete is very similar in nature. Sandpaper is used to get rid of the rough or uneven texture of the wood; in a similar fashion polishing concrete does very much the same thing. A concrete polisher is a type of machine that stands vertically and has several round discs on the bottom, as these discs spin; it removes the uneven texture of the concrete-very much like sanding wood.

Not only is polished concrete a cost efficient way to beautify a space that is drab and dreary but it is also very easy to maintain. Polished concrete requires a light mopping with water on occasion and the sheen can last up to ten years. Because of the durable nature of concrete, polished concrete can withstand high traffic areas without suffering any damage. If you are considering polished concrete the contractors at Associated Group Remodeling will answer all your questions!

For More Information on Polished Concrete, Check Out These Sites!

http://www.concretepolishing.com/concrete_polishing.html

http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/polishing/applications.htm

http://www.polishedconcrete.org/

http://www.concretenetwork.com/stains-dyes-buyers-guide/color-effects.html

How Wrought Iron is Made

Wrought Iron Defined

Wrought iron is a type of iron that has additives that make it malleable and it also gives it a very low corrosion rate. The actual term “wrought iron” not only refers to the type of iron but also refers to the actual process in which it is made. Wrought iron is now used for decorative fencing and molding for doors, windows and furniture.

How Wrought Iron Was Made Hundreds of Years Ago…

A couple hundred years ago wrought iron was made by the bloomery process. The bloomery process was designed to smelt iron from its oxides by way of a large furnace. The bloomer process also included mixing iron ore (the main raw material in the manufacturing in wrought iron) and charcoal in a forge (a place where metals are heated at high temperatures) and heating the mixture at a temperature beneath the melting point of iron. This process would allow the slag that is found in the ore to be run out of the forge. This process however does not make untainted wrought iron. The iron ore now would have a squishy and malleable texture to it and would have to go through the forge to be fired a second time. After it is fired a second time it can be molded and shaped into forms that we see today and recognize as wrought iron.

The Aston Process…

While the process described above worked well for hundreds of years, the current method for manufacturing wrought iron is a process that is now known as the Aston process. A man named James Aston designed a method in 1925 that involved taking molten steel from something known as a Bessemer Converter and then transferring it to a slag that was much cooler in temperature. Due to the low and cool temperature of liquid slang, when the molten steel is transferred the dissolved gases are transformed. This changes the nature of the material to something that is spongier in form and must be finished by being shingled and rolled (shingled and rolled is the process in which it is given shape).

Now a Days….

In 1969 the last steel plant closed. The manufacturing and production of wrought iron has been demonstrated to be at least twice the cost of low carbon steel. Now, some actual wrought iron is still used for restorative work but this is only by recycled scrap wrought iron.

Resources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wrought_iron#The_Aston_process

http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4924436_how-wrought-iron-made.html

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-wrought-iron.htm

http://www.wrought-iron-crafts.com/wrought-iron-process.html

Who Knew That Wrought Iron Could Have So Many Purposes?

So we all know that basic premise of wrought iron, it is beautiful to look at and will work perfectly as a gate, fence or decorative fixture. BUT, there are many other aspects of wrought iron that people fail to consider. Here we are going to highlight some of the special aspects of wrought iron that make it one of the most sought after and most popular materials to be used in either residential or commercial properties.

• Because of the durability of the material, wrought iron is an excellent solution for anyone who in trying to increase their security. Gates that are properly installed are very difficult to breech and also give the client a wide variety of aesthetic design options to choose from.
• Wrought iron fencing is quickly becoming one of the most popular choices in fencing materials due to its durability and adaptability. What sets wrought iron apart from other materials, is that is does not matter if you have a contemporary home or an English Tutor, wrought iron fencing can be adapted to reflect to the design needs of your property.
• While wrought iron is traditionally used for gates and fencing, it can also be used to break up static landscaping. Consider using wrought iron arches a foot tall to outline a flower path or use it as a waist high fence to section off the pool from the rest of the yard-the possibilities are endless!
• Many people think that wrought iron comes in just plain ole’ black-this is not correct! The iron that is actually produced comes in dark black, brown and you can even get silver. But now, individuals can even get colors in powder coated form that includes: beige, cream, deep blue, dark green, black and white! With these options, it allows you as the client to decide if you want your wrought iron fence work to stand out and make a statement or if you would prefer for it to blend in a bit more-what ever your preference, you will find a color that suits you!
• What makes wrought iron so beautiful is the unique and very design specific cap on the top of the rod. Wrought iron fences are made from one panel and then the iron spear caps are attached separately. These designs for the spear caps range from very traditional to very contemporary-what every your style, there will be a wrought iron design to suit your needs!

If you are considering wrought iron work it can be a bit overwhelming when considering all the designs and options that there are to choose from. That is why it is essential to choose a contractor that knows exactly what they are doing and who also has a portfolio to show you. If you have any questions about wrought iron work, the contractors at Associated Group Remodeling will be more than happy to talk to you; they have been doing this for over 25 years and are experts!

http://www.associatedremodeling.com/residential_ironwork.htm

The Beauty of Wrought Iron Fences

Few things can not only serve to determine the perimeter of your property while having a dual purpose of being aesthetically beautiful all while keeping the proper people off of your property. Wrought iron fencing serves all these categories and many more. Wrought iron fencing is a great way to add an element of design to any outdoor area.

Because of the high quality of material that is traditionally used for wrought iron fencing, there is relatively low maintenance required to maintain its beauty. Wrought iron can be used to break up solid block walls and add interest to the entrance of your home. Because of the strength of wrought iron, it can also be used for security gates. The narrow rails are very difficult and slippery to climb, if security is important for you, your wrought iron fence can be designed with points at the top to further deter any invaders. Because wrought iron work is so highly specialized it adds value to your home and can also help with resell. Wrought iron is highly durable and will last a very long time if installed correctly.

How Wrought Iron is Used:

·         Wrought Iron can be used as a decorative finish

·         Wrought Iron can be used as a security feature

·         Wrought Iron can be used in conjunction with masonry to break up solid walls

·         Wrought Iron can be used to enhance the perimeter of the property

·         Wrought Iron can be used for security

If you are considering adding wrought iron to your home or commercial property, the experts at Associated Group Remodeling have been doing this for years and can help you determine the most efficient way to add the beauty of wrought iron to your property. To see their portfolio, check out: http://www.associatedremodeling.com/portfolio_ironwork.htm

Shapes and Colors of Pavers-So Many to Choose From

Unlike brick and concrete, pavers and the wide variety of shapes and sizes that they come in can be used to create a visually attractive and stimulation centerpiece for your home or office space. Pavers are very much like puzzle pieces, different sizes and shapes along with varying shades of color can all be intergraded together to create an overall charming and pleasing composition.

The Shape of the Paver:

          
        Choosing the right shape of paver is a fun task, and if you give your contractor some guidance as to the type of feeling you are trying to achieve in the space, he/she will be able to help guide you. Although there are some shapes that you would not want to mix and match, there are some that when mixed can create a stunning effect and can give visual interest to an otherwise mundane space.

Pavers come in all different shapes and sizes. They range from hexagons to pentagons, octagons, parallelograms, fans, x-shapes, key-hole shapes, W-shapes and let’s not forget the traditional square and rectangle paver.

The Color of the Paver:

            When considering what color of paver would best be suited in the space you are designing, consider these questions:

1.)    What is the overall feel of the space that you are trying to achieve? Are you going for more a more rustic or more contemporary feeling?

2.)    Are you trying to make the space feel cozy or make it seem visually expansive?

3.)    Are there existing colors in the space that you need to work with? For example the house?

The colors of pavers range from blues to grays, from browns to reds, from charcoals to tans. Pavers are an excellent solution if you are looking to add a bit of warmth and character to your space. The type of landscaping that is in the space will also play a role in what type of pavers would be most suitable. For example, if you have more traditional landscaping, contemporary pavers may not be the best fit unless you intend on redoing it at some point.

If you are considering putting in pavers, a great website to further educate you on the benefits of pavers is: http://www.paversearch.com/brick-pavers-menu.htm If you are in the Phoenix area and would like to speak to a contractor about installing pavers, the contractors at Associated Group Remodeling are second to none. They are experts in laying pavers and can answer all of your questions and can even help you decided on colors and shapes. For more information check out http://www.associatedremodeling.com/

Bring in the Charm of Pavers to Your Driveway…5 Reasons to Choose Pavers Over Concrete!

Pavers are quickly becoming one of the most popular products used by mason contractors. This is not only because of their durability, but also because of their long lasting beauty. If you are considering redesigning your driveway or walkway, here are five reasons to choose pavers over concrete!

1.)    Pavers allow for more design and ultimately more flexibility

With pavers, literally the sky is the limit! Pavers can be used for driveways, walkways, pools, patios-you name it! What is great about pavers is that they can be cut to fit any space. The use of pavers adds a more artistic element, designs are commonly used in patios and driveways.

2.)    Pavers require hardly any maintenance

Unlike concrete that commonly cracks, pavers do not! Maintenance for pavers is limited to sweeping, rinsing on occasion and possibly resealing. Pavers maintain their beauty and durability for years and years. If a paver cracks or is stained for any reason, the repair is simple, just pop it out and replace it with a new one!

3.)    Tough as nails

Pavers are three times stronger than concrete, therefore if you install pavers you are less likely to have any damage than if you were to have concrete. In addition, because of the sand that is used to hold the pavers in place, the pavers move in unison with the earth. This makes cracking far less common. Certain types of pavers are specifically designed to hold significant amounts of weight for high traffic area’s without causing any damage to the pavers.

4.)    Be Safe

Because of the texture of the materials used for pavers, pavers can reduce slipping. When wet, because of its gritty surface, pavers are far less slippery than concrete. In addition, specific pavers that have a non-slip surface can be used around poolside’s.

5.)    And they are beautiful

Pavers come in a wide variety of colors and are all sizes and shapes. It is truly and artist’s dream. In contrast to the gray color of concrete, pavers add many more options of colors ranging from blues, to tans, to red, to browns and many more!

What Are Some of the Benefits of Brick Pavers?

Brick Pavers are a beautiful way to add depth, color and dimension to your driveway or walkway. Originally they were very limited in size and color, today because of their popularity they come in a wide array of sizes, colors and shapes.

Brick Pavers are a great way to add interest to your home, but in addition to their beauty, they are also very practical. Unlike traditional brick, brick pavers do not have mortar in between, sand is used to grout them and hold them in place. This means that if your car leaks oil in the driveway you don’t have to live with a stain, you can simply pop out the damaged paver (your contractor will leave you with some back ups) and replace it. Never again will you have to look at cracked brick and concrete-because there is no mortar, there is nothing to crack! Pavers are three times stronger than poured concrete, so the chances of having to deal with one that is cracked is minimal, if by chance there is a cracked paver, just pop it out!

Who would have thought that brick pavers are an easy way to go green? Pavers are made of natural aggregates without petroleum based products. The water then percolates through the joints therefore preventing less run off!

Brick pavers also add a lot of versatility for your walkway, patio or driveway. Beautiful designs can be made from the varying shapes and sizes of paves, when the project is finished, it will truly be a work of art to enjoy. Pavers are incredibly durable and are very low maintenance; this means that you will enjoy the aesthetic quality that they offer for years and years to come!

For pictures of some of Associated Group-Remodeling’s Paver Work, Check out this link! http://www.associatedremodeling.com/portfolio_pavers.htmht: http://www.associatedremodeling.com/portfolio_pavers.htm http://www.associatedremodeling.com/portfolio_pavers.htm//www.associatedremodeling.com/portfolio_pavers.htm

What Kind of Impression is Your Business Making??

With these tough economic times, it is fairly easy for most business and commercial property owners to cut back on the cost of maintaining the aesthetic and design quality of their business space-all for the sake of lowering the bottom line. Most would venture to say that having a beautiful office or facility does not directly bring in revenue or business. However, let me ask you, what does your attorney’s office look like? What does your accountant’s office look like? What thoughts would be running through your head if you were at the doctors in the waiting room and there were stains on the wall?

People by nature are fairly judgmental, essentially what that means for your business is that if you have not impressed them within the first few minutes of them walking into your office space-then you may have a hard sell on your hands! What most business owners don’t understand is that having a well maintained office or commercial space is actually very affordable and can actually increase your business revenue. Would you rather do business with an attorney that had an office with peeling paint (or at least dirty paint) or would you prefer to do business with an attorney who had an office that was freshly painted with beautiful complementary colors? –Most of us I am guessing would choose the latter…

Don’t let your office look like this!! http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2356/1635324488_cf254d06ce.jpg

While having a beautifully designed office does cost money, it doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Painting is a very affordable and economical way to stretch your budget and get a lot of bang for your buck and can work with any reasonable budget! At Associated Group Remodeling, their painting contractors will ensure that the walls are perfectly prepped and properly taped-you don’t have to worry about a thing! Many of us cringe at the idea of having to pick out paint colors-and I agree, that can be overwhelming!! If that is something that you think will be an issue, just let the people at Associated Group Remodeling know, they have designers who would be more than happy to work with you and ultimately relieve you of the pressure of having to pick out the perfect paint color!

For more information of Associated Group Remodeling, check out their website! http://www.associatedremodeling.com/commercial_painting.htm

To Hire a Professional Painter… Or Not….

You have put it off long enough…. You have now conquered everything else on your “honey-do” except paint the kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, office or living room. We all know that there are better ways to spend the week or weekend than prepping the painting surface, taping edges and spending countless hours being unable to decide what swatches of paint will best compliment the room. Many people believe that hiring a professional painting company is a luxury that they can not afford, why should they hire someone to do something that they can either:

a.) do it themselves

b.) learn to do it themselves

Well, the answer is very simple. There is a vast difference in the quality of work between an individual who has painted a few rooms and a craftsmen painter who has made this his life’s work. At Associated Group Remodeling, our designers and contractors pay attention to the smallest detail. Our painting contractors take great pains to prep the surface carefully and ensure that you are receiving the best job possible. When the job is done, it will undoubtedly look like the work of a seasoned professional.

Many people consider putting themselves through the pain of painting because they are unsure of the cost. Yes, hiring someone does actually cost more than doing it yourself. But, the key is that when hiring a professional you will be getting a higher grade of materials and since they know what they are doing, it doesn’t take as long! Hiring a professional painter is actually a lot more affordable than what most people imagine. Give us a call at Associated Group Remodeling and find out, worst case, we can give you some painting tips and you have lost a few minutes of time. On the up-side, we are confident that we can work with any reasonable budget. That means that while we are slaving away, you can enjoy the weekend with your kids and not worry about splatters or dripping!! Our painting contractors are experts and we are sure that you will be ecstatic with the final product!

Don’t let what happened to Mr. Bean happen to you! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3hNkUyQaXwE

Welcome to Associated Group Remodeling!!

Welcome to our website and our first blog for Associated Group Remodeling! My name is Julie Hadduck and I am the writer of this blog. I am so excited to partner with Associated Group Remodeling! When I first met the owner and CEO Brian Dimitro, I was completely surprised! Associated Group Remodeling is a  large and incredibly well respected construction company in the Phoenix area. Brian surprised me because of how incredibly relatable and down to earth he was. Brian is the kind of man that you WANT to do business with-and that is a rare find in the construction industry.

Brian started Associated Group Remodeling over 25 years ago, and since then he has expanded into a wide variety of construction. As his company has gotten larger, Brian has sought out talent and has brought together an incredible team of designers and contractors who work together to create the ideal outdoor space. Their talented crew of contractors can transform a pile of dirt into a sports court, turn an ordinary back yard into an outdoor living escape, define property boundaries with wrought iron fencing, work with concrete, natural stone, pavers, and they can even landscape and bring in their designers to paint.

When Brian first started and developed Associated Group Remodeling, he was determined to offer his clients the highest quality service while still being priced competitively. Brian still holds true to that philosophy, offering the highest quality of service and craftsmanship while still meeting client’s financial needs.

One of the things that I found to be unique about Associated Group Remodeling is that they are designed to cater to both residential and commercial properties! Associated Group Remodeling prides itself on being able to handle any type of job, no job is to big or to small.

In future blogs we will be discussing the various types of services that we offer as well as industry secrets and tips to maintaining beautiful landscape, paint and wrought iron. Please let us know what you think of our website and services, we appreciate any and all comments!