CONSIDERING CONCRETE FOR EXTERIOR WALLS? LEARN WHY WE’RE ON BOARD WITH THIS TREND

Exposed concrete exterior walls are becoming more popular. Historically, many homes have been built with block foundations. While cinder blocks possess high compression strength, this foundation style seems to be on the way out. Beyond the fact that concrete foundations are a growing trend, there are other reasons to consider concrete for your structure. 

Finished concrete exterior at Rincon Ranch Residence

Pros and Cons: Cement Walls vs Block Walls

In many ways, at least initially, cinder block (aka CMU Block, or “block”) wall foundations are more accessible and less expensive than their concrete counterparts. However, the drawbacks of using blocks are that they are prone to water leaks, buckling, and bowing. In addition to the high labor costs of building with cinder blocks, their fragility also means that repair costs will rack up over time. When done correctly, building with concrete lasts longer and has fewer issues with rot, termites, and deterioration.

A Case for Concrete Walls

Creating a strong and safe foundation is every homeowner’s top priority when building a home. Poured concrete walls are our first choice because they make definitively stronger foundations and can be poured into any shape and size. Many engineers and architects also opt for them because of their excellent fire resistance and ability to withstand underground lateral pressure caused by water and soil. Concrete walls lack “joints”, making them significantly more resistant to leaks, even years after construction. Homes with concrete exteriors are indeed cooler, but other accommodations can be made for climate control. Additionally, concrete offers the opportunity for color additives, so clients can get an integral color that holds up using the proper protection. This makes poured concrete a great alternative for anyone wanting to use more natural products than, say, vinyl siding or plaster, which require additional paint because they fade and crumble due to weather exposure.

Matt Shaw Crew hard at work renovating Ave Del Mar Residence

Team smoothing cement to perfection—because every detail matters

Matt Shaw’s Expertise For Exterior Concrete Walls

Pouring concrete walls is a tricky process. Many contractors don’t take the time or possess the oversight to produce a flawless finished project, which is why it’s common to see concrete walls with issues. At Matt Shaw, our team is specially trained to ensure all aspects of construction go smoothly, and we always have a foreman supervising quality control. We take pride in our precision, which is why our workers always go the extra mile to get it right. They take their time to slowly vibrate the concrete with a concrete vibrator during the pour, following the pump as it moves along to eliminate air bubbles in the pumped concrete, which ensures that the concrete pumped into walls is as smooth and durable as possible. Matt Shaw also braces forms tightly, assuring they’re properly joined together, so you never have to worry about blown walls that require demolition to repair down the road.

Freshly renovated Ave Del Mar Residence, featuring a mixed concrete + wood exterior

We love to see this trend growing. Since most concrete projects get covered up, there is something special about working on details that will be “seen” and enjoyed for years to come. Matt Shaw Concrete, Inc. has delivered quality craftsmanship in Santa Barbara County and the larger California area since 2004. Our superintendent and foreman average over 30 years of industry experience, making Matt Shaw a premier concrete contractor.

Looking for a straightforward company to get a job done exceptionally well? Contact us today. We look forward to bringing your vision to life.