FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

Architectural concrete is a type of concrete with precisely defined aesthetic requirements. Unlike structural concrete, architectural concrete is a finishing material — its surface requires no plastering or painting. ConcreAte manufactures architectural concrete using GRC technology (glass fibre reinforced), which gives it exceptional strength at low weight. More about architectural concrete →

GRC (Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete) is architectural concrete reinforced with dispersed zirconia glass fibres. Compared to traditional concrete, GRC is up to 3 times lighter, has 2-3× higher flexural strength and enables production of panels from 10 mm thickness. The material is frost-resistant, fireproof (class A1) and coloured in mass. More about GRC technology →

ConcreAte offers four standard colours pigmented in mass: Pure (white), Common (natural grey), Ash (dark grey) and Sable (anthracite). Each colour is available in smooth and porous finish. Custom colours are available on request.

Standard panel size is 120×60 cm. Custom sizes available from small formats up to 120×300 cm. Minimum GRC panel thickness is 10 mm, standard is 20 mm.

In practice, the terms "architectural concrete" and "decorative concrete" are used interchangeably. Both refer to concrete with a finishing function, where the surface is an aesthetic element. ConcreAte uses "architectural concrete" for panels produced in GRC technology, and "decorative concrete" as a broader term that also includes ornamental elements, planters and furniture.

Decorative plaster is a thin layer (1-3 mm) applied to a wall that only imitates the appearance of concrete. ConcreAte architectural concrete is real concrete — with natural pores, aggregate and three-dimensional texture. Each panel is unique. Plaster offers a flat, uniform effect, while concrete provides an authentic, raw character unavailable with synthetic materials.

Yes. ConcreAte GRC concrete is frost-resistant (class 3 per PN-EN 14992), UV-resistant and weatherproof. We use it on building facades, fences, terraces and landscape elements. Facade concrete panels →

Yes — with proper hydrophobic impregnation. ConcreAte concrete panels are resistant to moisture and water after impregnation. We use them as wall cladding in bathrooms and kitchens.

Yes. Impregnated concrete panels can be used as wall cladding in kitchens — above the worktop, in the dining area, as a backdrop for a kitchen island. Impregnation protects concrete against stains from grease, coffee or wine. Architectural concrete in the kitchen is a durable and elegant solution.

Yes — this is one of the main applications of our products. ConcreAte GRC facade panels are frost-resistant, fireproof (class A1), UV-resistant and require no plastering. Installation with adhesive, stone anchors or ventilated substructure. More about facade panels →

Yes. ConcreAte architectural concrete fences are a modern alternative to traditional fences. GRC concrete is frost-resistant and maintenance-free — the fence retains its aesthetics for years. We produce fence panels in various sizes and colours. ConcreAte concrete fences →

Use dedicated C2TE cement adhesive or polymer adhesive. Apply with a notched trowel to the entire surface of the wall and panel. The substrate must be primed before installation.

ConcreAte facade panels can be installed using three methods: adhesive (GRC panels up to 10 mm), stone anchors (20-40 mm panels) or ventilated facade substructure (aluminium frame with insulation). More about facade installation →

Between concrete panels, use flexible grout (silicone or polyurethane) in a colour matching the concrete. Grout width is typically 3-5 mm. Flexible grout compensates for thermal movement of the panels and prevents cracking. Traditional cement grouts should not be used.

Wall panel installation with adhesive is feasible for an experienced tiler or renovation team. Facade installation with anchors or ventilated substructure requires experience and should be carried out by a professional team. ConcreAte provides installation instructions and technical advice.

ConcreAte architectural concrete panels can be cut with an angle grinder and a diamond blade for concrete. GRC panels (from 10 mm) are easier to cut than traditional concrete. They can also be drilled and sanded without specialist equipment. Wet cutting is recommended to reduce dust.

ConcreAte architectural concrete prices depend on size, thickness, colour and order quantity. Standard panels (120×60 cm) start from approx. 150-250 PLN/m² net. Custom sizes and special colours are quoted individually. Contact us for a quote →

Standard lead time is 2-4 weeks from order confirmation. Time depends on order size and colour availability. Custom sizes may require longer production time.

Yes — as a manufacturer of GRC architectural concrete, we fulfil orders for custom sizes, colours and textures. The largest panel we can produce measures 120×300 cm. We also make elements with non-standard shapes — planters, countertops, fireplace cladding and other bespoke elements.

Apply hydrophobic impregnant with a brush, roller or spray on clean, dry surface. Best done immediately after installation. The impregnant penetrates the concrete structure and protects against water, stains and dirt. Renew every 5-7 years.

For architectural concrete, use hydrophobic impregnants based on silane/siloxane. The impregnant should be colourless and not change the appearance of the concrete (matt surface). For bathrooms and kitchens, we recommend impregnants with enhanced stain protection. Oil or resin-based impregnants may alter the colour of the concrete — use with caution.

Clean impregnated concrete with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Do not use acidic, abrasive products or pressure washers directly on concrete.

Minor chips and damage in architectural concrete can be repaired with repair mortar (concrete cosmetics) in a colour matching the panel. Larger damage requires panel replacement — thanks to the modular construction, a single panel can be replaced without disturbing the rest. ConcreAte offers advice on repairs.