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Finally, Szalony created a 10-inch-wide mantel using five pieces of EPS. He applied the Thin-Crete overlay mix to the mantel and then stamped and stained the piece to look like one large rock.

Szalony used multiple techniques to apply a final coat of stain to the three fireplace elements, including spraying with an HVLP gun as well as applying the stain with sea sponges and rags.

Finally, he used a spray bottle to apply a water-based sealer which protects the overlay while enhancing the color of the natural-looking stone, he says.

At a Glance
Company:Unique Decorative Concrete
Ionia, Mich.
www.decorativeconcretemichigan.com
Decorative Services offered: Concrete countertops, concrete fireplaces, stamped patios and overlays.
Key products and equipment:
O.S.B plywood and 2 x 4s; 2-in. EPS (expanded polystyrene), 3-lb. density; construction adhesive; 3- to 6-in. screws and foam washers; hot knife; Increte's Thin-Crete Vertical Overlay, Integral Colors (iron oxides) Bond-Crete and Liquid Release; texture skins from Increte and Fossil Crete and contractor's own unique designs; Smith Paints Stains; L&M Scofield water-based sealer; HVLP spray gun and spray bottles; Collomix handheld bucket mixer; butterknife and carving tools for joints.