Concrete Engraving
Using an air compressor, customized pneumatic cutting tools, and a heavy-duty plastic template, text, images and designs, such as patterned borders, room motif accents, emblems, and logos, can be precisely and efficiently engraved into horizontal concrete slabs - indoors or outside. Decorative concrete engraving becomes a permanent and distinct part of the concrete surface, similar to design work seen on grave markers and stone, residential subdivision entry markers, and at only an approximate depth of 1/16" does not present a trip or safety hazard. Individual elements of an image or design may then be colored through the use of acid-stains, concrete dyes or water-based acrylic stains, before or after the engraving process. Images and designs to be used may be chosen from a preset catalog, or converted from any electronic computer) image file.
The first set of photos below shows a project outside the main entry of a church in Sterling Heights, Michigan: a Bible verse from the Gospel of Matthew being engraved into a specially poured section of concrete that has been pre-colored with acid stain.
The second set of photos below shows the sketch of a design on an heirloom jewelry case being reproduced on the main floor of an Irish pub in Farmington, Michigan. You can read more about the concrete engraving process and see a catalog of available templates on the Engrave-A-Crete company web site. Premier Veneers uses Engrave-A-Crete tools and templates.
A chronological view of the concrete engraving process shows: 1) a jewelry case; 2) the starting artwork; 3) the transfer and imprint of the image to floor; 4) the engraving & staining; and 5) final engraving with protective clear sealer. It is a precise and beautiful process from start to finish.
Best of all, the engraving process produces little to no concrete dust. The cement particles that are removed during pneumatic cutting are large and heavy enough that they do not become airborne or present a respiratory hazard. They are simply vacuumed up with a standard shop vac fitted with HEPA bag and cartridge filters.
There are other "non-pneumatic" concrete engraving systems on the market, including from Engrave-A-Crete, but they are either less precise and efficient, such as automated or robotic engraving machines, or so elaborate and cost prohibitive, such as sandblasting or shot-blast engraving machinery, that you would only find them in use with someone who does concrete engraving full time. The equipment and system Premier Veneers uses from Engrave-A-Crete is versatile, portable, precise and affordable.