Concrete is one of the most versatile and durable materials in the building industry. Although we tend to think of concrete as relatively modern, it has been around for centuries. Concrete was used over 4000 years ago in Rome and Mesopotamia. So, we can easily say it is one of the most time-tested materials.

The use of concrete in furniture started in the early 1900s... Did you know that Thomas Edison, most
known for the modern-day light bulb, is also credited with coming up with a type of cement for furniture? His Edison Portland Cement Company used a new mining and milling method, creating a different kind of cement for masonry blocks. Edison used this cement to make a concrete phonograph cabinet and various pieces of concrete furniture.

Concrete is made by mixing two components: cement and aggregate. The cement, mixed with water, is the paste. The less water you add, the harder it will be. Pieces of gravel (aggregate) are added to create strength. Coarse or fine pieces of stone depending on the finished look you want to achieve. You can add other components to the mixture of cement and aggregate to change the setting time, increase its strength or modify its color and appearance.

Concrete makes an excellent table or countertop. Not only is it beautiful in a modern décor style, but concrete furniture is also functional and clean. Since it is such a unique and usually architectural part of the decor, it will command attention in the room.

Concrete provides a finish that has a raw look and feel. There are also ways to get a concrete look that is more finished, polished, and smooth. These styles tend to cost more since they require more work and manufacturing time. A concrete tabletop pairs beautifully with a smooth teak base. Both are natural materials, so they blend well. To make different shapes beyond just the traditional square and rectangular shapes, manufacturers use various mold shapes. Round and oval concrete tables and bases are available that bring a softness through the lines to this rugged material.

Concrete furniture is not light. Be prepared for higher shipping costs and if you live in a condo on a higher floor, make sure there is enough space allowance to get your concrete furniture through stairwells and doorways. Tables are usually made in two pieces – the top and the base – for easier transport.

Concrete is an excellent option if you want outdoor furniture that will last more than a few seasons in our harsh climate. Concrete does not rot or degrade like wood, nor does it crack like synthetic rattan. You will not find a material that is more weather resistant than concrete when it comes to outdoor furniture. If used outdoors (or anywhere there will be water, such as the kitchen), a finish must be applied to the concrete surface. This finish ensures water will not seep into the concrete. Depending on your preference, you can select either a glossy or matte surface treatment.

Although concrete is durable, it can still scuff and chip, so avoid sharp objects if possible. Never put hot pots and pans on this surface since it may cause discoloration either to the concrete itself or the finish. Concrete does require some maintenance because it is a porous material. Be careful with any cleaningproducts that are acidic or volatile because they can also damage the surface. Just a good scrub with soap, water and elbow grease is the best way to keep your concrete furniture looking its best. When it comes to cost, concrete is one of the lowest cost materials. Its durability makes it a long-lasting item, so you get a lot of value for your dollar.

Need furniture? Visit us at our Puerto Vallarta store: 363A Constitucion just off of Basilio Badillo, or in
Bucerias at Heroes de Nacozari 126. We are open Mon through Fridays 10 to 2. If you are not currently
in Mexico, email us at furniture@solutionsmexico.com or Whatsapp us at +3221365156. We help you
buy right the first time!

It is not easy to tell the difference between good quality and poorly made furniture. Most folks buy furniture based on what it looks like and how much it costs. Unless you have studied furniture manufacturing processes and materials, it is far too easy to end up spending your hard-earned money on items that may not last. Furniture is not cheap, so you want to make sure it will stay looking good and comfortable for as long as possible.

I am not suggesting that every piece you purchase should be heirloom quality with a high price tag—quite the opposite. I believe in helping people know the pros and cons of their purchases regardless of the price tag.

Here are some tips on how to tell if a sofa, table, or bedroom set is well-made and worth the price.

1. Look for wood furniture constructed using either solid hardwood that is adequately kiln-dried or plywood that is at least eight layers.
2. If you buy pine furniture, buy from a manufacturer who selects the wood, properly dried, without knots. Knots are more prone to cracking. Also, proper manufacturers use varnish, not used car oil. If it smells like car oil, avoid it!
3. Stay away from the press board (IKEA/Walmart/Grocery Store) furniture if you want it to last. It will not stand up in the humidity and is prone to termites.
4. On any wood furniture, check the joints. Choose ones that are screwed or dowelled. Even better are joints that are dovetail or mortise and tenon. Check underneath and look for reinforcing blocks that are attached to corners for additional support. If you see joints that are nailed or stapled or exposed glue, it is a sign that the furniture will not last as long.
5. Veneers are a great solution to get a beautiful piece of furniture at a reasonable price. Make sure the veneer is either solid wood or good plywood.

6. If you purchase a piece of wood furniture such as a desk, dresser or nightstand, better quality items often have dust panels between drawers. These thin sheets of wood make the structure stronger.

7. Always open and close all doors and drawers to make sure they do not stick. Look for drawers that have metal gliders with stops. The higher quality items will have grooves underneath the drawers so that with the change in humidity, they can expand and contract without issue. If there are no metal gliders, it is generally a sign of lower quality workmanship.

8. Since most upholstered furniture is covered by fabric, it is usually impossible to check out the frame. This is where it is critical to get the information from a salesperson. Do not be afraid to ask about the materials used to make the frame. If the salesperson cannot tell you immediately, this is a sign they are interested in your money, not your satisfaction.

9. Ask about the foam. Seat cushions should be made with high resiliency foam (HR), not high density (HD), if you want it to be comfortable for years.

10. Be cautious buying any leather-like product. There are many cheap bonded leather pieces of furniture in big box stores and many Mexican furniture stores. This "tacto piel" cracks and peels within the year. Unscrupulous retailers may try to convince you it is leather. The best way to know it is genuine leather is if you know and trust the brand.