How To Get Concrete To Look Like Wood

Concrete’s durability and low-maintenance makes it a very desirable flooring option, especially for outdoor uses in places such as driveways, walkways, pool decks and patios.

But outdoors is not the only place where concrete shines – not even close. It can also be used to create various types of indoor furniture such as countertops, coffee tables, dining tables and benches.

Keeping in mind the various uses of concrete in both indoor and outdoor spaces, it’s only natural for people to pair it with the timeless and natural beauty of wood.

In this article we’ll be going over the different techniques used to make concrete look like wood as well as the benefits of concrete for outdoor and indoor uses.

Techniques for Making Concrete Look Like Wood

Concrete stamping is commonly used for making patios and walkways look like wood decks. 

Wood Stamping

It can also be used in bathrooms and kitchens as a moisture-resistant alternative to hardwood floors. This effect is achieved by pressing a wood grain pattern onto a surface of freshly poured concrete. 

Once the stamping is complete, the concrete is then colored to replicate the natural hues of wood. 

A great thing about this technique is that you have complete design control over what kind of  wood stain and color you’d like to emulate.

Wood Staining

Wood staining is accomplished by using acid-based stains or water-based dyes to apply color to the concrete surface. 

Selecting the right colors and skillful application is key in making it look realistic, so hiring an experienced contractor to do the job is crucial if you want to get the best possible results.

When done properly, this method will do wonders in making your floors and countertops look like wood while maintaining the durability and water-resistance of concrete.

Overlays

Overlays involve applying a thin layer of concrete over an existing surface. They can then be textured and stained to resemble wood. 

This technique is versatile and can be used on floors, walls, and countertops.

Board Forming

Board forming is essentially pouring concrete into forms lined with real wooden boards. The boards leave an imprint of their grain on the concrete, creating a highly realistic wood appearance. 

Board forming is most commonly used for walls and columns.

Etching 

By applying an acid solution to the concrete surface, you can etch a wood grain pattern into the concrete. 

This process requires careful handling of the acid but results in a detailed and highly realistic texture.

Faux Painting

Faux painting is a technique where you paint the concrete surface with multiple shades of brown to create the look of wood. 

Tools like graining brushes and combs are used to add texture. This method is highly customizable and can be adjusted to achieve the exact look you want.

Benefits of Concrete Over Wood

Durability

Concrete’s durability is incomparable to wood’s. It can withstand harsh weather conditions such as rain and snow, and you don’t have to worry about heavy furniture denting concrete. 

It’s also rot and pest-resistant, making it an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor applications.

Concrete is non-combustible and has excellent fire resistance. This makes it especially useful in kitchens, where countertops are exposed to high heat from cooking appliances.

Low Maintenance

While wood is not the most difficult flooring material to maintain, concrete’s maintenance is even simpler. 

Concrete doesn’t need to be regularly sealed or stained, and cleaning it is as simple as using a pressure washer outdoors and sweeping or vacuuming the surface indoors.

Lower Cost

Compared to the average wood flooring cost, concrete can save you a lot of money in a couple of different ways. 

For starters, replacing your wood flooring can be quite expensive if it gets damaged. While chipping and cracking is possible with concrete, it can be patched easily and cheaply. 

Additionally, as already mentioned, concrete requires less maintenance over time, which eliminates the need for frequent sealing, staining, or pest treatments that wood demands.

Why Choose Concrete That Looks Like Wood?

Opting for concrete that mimics wood gives you the best of both worlds: the aesthetic appeal of wood and the practicality of concrete. 

It’s an excellent choice for areas exposed to moisture, like patios and pool decks, where wood would typically degrade. 

Furthermore, for indoor applications, concrete floors and countertops that look like wood are growing in popularity due to their unique and modern design while being easier to care for than actual wood.

By using these techniques, you can transform your concrete surfaces into beautiful, wood-like features that add warmth and character to your space while enjoying the benefits of a more durable material.