The ability to appreciate concrete as an aesthetically versatile construction material has led Sika to many innovations in architectural concrete. The flexibility of concrete in design enables the designer to create structures not possible with other construction materials. Combining this flexibility with Sika’s over one hundred years of experience and expertise in concrete formulation and optimization allows structures of true architectural value to be realized.
Architectural Concrete Has Many Benefits
- It is durable and low maintenance
- Cost effective in comparison with other systems
- Resists mechanical damage
- Eliminates the need for the application of coatings or paints
- Versatile in design
- Numerous colors are available
Architectural Concrete Can Be Used For All Types of Structures
| Structures | Applications |
|---|---|
| Commercial structures | Parking garages, internal and external architectural elements, facades |
| Residential buildings | Driveways, footpaths, internal and external architectural elements, facades, balconies |
| Education buildings | Car parks, footpaths, internal and external architectural elements, facades, street furniture |
| Transport and infrastructure | Roads, bridges, tunnels, airports |
How to Achieve Architectural Concrete?
UNDERSTANDING THE DESIGNERS VISION IS VITAL
To enable the successful realization of the design to the completed structure, Sika needs to be involved at the earliest opportunity. This collaborative approach ensures good communication and understanding at all times throughout the project.
PROPER FORMULATION OF THE CONCRETE MIX DESIGN
It is key to achieving architectural concrete of the required quality. Locally available materials (aggregates and cement) need to be evaluated to ensure that the selected Sika solutions are optimized providing superior finishes and durability.
SURFACE FINISHING
There are many different types of surface finish that can be achieved. Attention should always be given to type of surface finish as this will always significantly affect the visual appreciation of the structure.
- Formed concrete
- Form lined concrete
- Exposed aggregate finishes
- Troweled finishes
- Brushed finishes
- Blast cleaned or mechanically tooled
- Patented imprinted concrete
- Polished concrete
ON-SITE SUPPORT
Sika representatives support the owner, designer and contractor on their projects from the initial design through to completion. Samples of proposed concrete formulations can also be provided so that the Designer and Owner can make informed decisions. Sika technical staff are available on-site during construction, so that the project is truly supported from conception to completion.
Sika® Architectural Concrete System Components
Concrete mix design and optimization suitable for the intended application are essential for the success of Sika® Architectural Concrete. Additionally, thanks to concrete pigments, admixtures and other products in the Sika® Architectural range, it's possible to produce a high quality concrete suitable for all possible applications and contractor's requirements that will satisfy the most demanding designer's and owner's.
Sika® Color concrete pigment
A range of synthetic iron oxide powder and liquid pigments available in numerous different colors. They are permanent, stable and UV resistant. Solar Reflective Index (SRI) values are available.
Sika® ViscoCrete®
A range of HRWR/ Superplasticizers that enhance the workability and durability of concrete.
Sika ViscoFlow®
Specifically developed admixtures to extend and retain the workability of concrete for long periods of time.
Sika® Stabilizer®
Admixture used to increases the stability of concrete. It improves cohesion and surface finishes.
SikaControl®
Admixture reducing drying shrinkage cracking in structures that can cause a visual defect in the concrete.
Sika® Rugasol®
Surface retarder can be used to provide an exposed aggregate finish to concrete.
Sika® Separol®
A range of mold release agents. The range of products enables the fulfillment of many different types of application and formwork types.
Sika® Antisol®
Sika® Antisol® products for architectural concrete are spray-applied curing compounds which are highly UV resistant.
Sika® Perfin
Used to improve the surface finish of concrete by reducing the occurrence of pores and blowholes on the concrete surface.
Sikagard®
Surface treatments which can be applied to enhance the durability or visual appearance of concrete.