That tired concrete surface can be given a new life

Press, 22 July 1976, Page 19

That tired concrete surface can be given a new life

A product which has been in use in the North Island for some time but which is only just getting known in the South Island is oetible paving for existing concrete surfaces, either vertical or horizontal. WHAT IS IT? — It is finely graded natural beach and river pebbles which are set in a clear resin binder. The effect of this is a covering for existing areas of concrete to give an appearance of a carpet of glossy, coloured pebbles. IS IT NEW? Strictly speaking, no. This system of paving started in California more than 20 years ago and has been used in Australia and other countries for more than 15 years. In the last few years it has been introduced to the North Is--1 and and it is now very

popular there. It has been seen in the South Island only since last Christmas and until the present it has been sold only on a “supply and lay” basis by the manufacturers. But because of an almost overwhelming demand from the public the manufacturers have decided to sell it in do-it-vourself form. WHERE IS IT USED. — It car be used on any concrete, plaster, asbestos sheeting or timber surface. In t..e case of timber it should first be covered with fibrolite or similar material. The pebble coating is used mainly on patios and terraces but it is aiso used extensively' on pool surrounds, bar-b-que areas, paths, feature walls and fireplace surrounds. WHAT DOE SIT COST? — The cost of a do-it-your-self job works out at about $lO a square metre o.

about $1 a square foot. When you consider the cost of alternative surfaces — such as tiles at $3O a square metre or exposed aggregate at $l6 to $2O a square metre — pebbles can then be seen to be quite reasonable. Even paintmg a surface every two years or so would cost more than pebbles in say 10 years HOW IS IT APPLIED? — The method of applying pebbles is simple. You first apply a basecoat or sealer using a paint brush or roller. The pebble coating is premixed in four-litre or 20-line cans, which are workable mixtures of pebbles and resin. To this you simply add a catalyst then mix it thoroughly to ensure that the bond and the pebbles are evenly distributed. This is then spread with a plasterer’s steel trowel to give an even finish. Pebblecoat can be applied to horizontal or vertical surfaces, so for a proper finish you can coat the risers on steps, the coverings under windows and doorways. A big advantage is that the application is less than {in thick so it can be used in many areas where tiles, plaster or exposed aggregate would be too thick to give clearance to doors or windows. Once applied the pebble surface is virtually main-tenance-free. A quick hoseover occasionally is usually sufficient to keep the surface looking attractive. If something is spilt on it most household detergents or cleaning agents can be used without risk of damage to the pebble finish. SERVICE AND SUPPLY — A comprehensive service is offered by Pebbles Galore, Ltd. You can visit the factory in Tahuna Street, Wainoni, where you will be given a demonstration of how to apply the material. You should take the measurements of the job you want done, giving the area of both horizontal and vertical surfaces you want to cover, and the exact amount you will need can then be calculated. For those who are unable to go to the factory arrangements will be made for a technical supervisor to call at your home with samples and advise you of what you would need. This can be arranged by telephoning 60-360.

A PROFESSIONAL JOB There are many people who have neither the inclination nor the ability to do such work themselves. For such people the contracting division, N.Z. Pebble Paving, offers a complete service. By telephoning 60-360 you can get someone to visit and give you an obligation-free quote to do the whole job for you. Alternatively you have the plasterer or tiler of your own choice to do the work for you. Pebbles Galore are happy to supply tradesmen with the materials. OUT OF TOWN

Inquiries from outside of Christchurch should be made to P.O. Box 25083, Christchurch. Supplies will be sent to anywhere in the South Island.