Architectural Shotcrete
Architectural shotcrete — air-sprayed concrete sculpted and stained to resemble natural rock — is the quick and economic option for finished facings. Drill Tech employs ACI-certified shotcrete sculptors experienced with the process and requirements, which allows us to complete retaining structures and provide an architectural finish completely in-house. In the 1990s, Drill Tech was one of the first companies to back the wide use of architectural shotcrete in commercial projects. We’re now a leader in the industry and routinely complete projects within four finish categories: Flatwork, Stonework, Faux Rock, and Specialty.
Architectural Shotcrete
Drill Tech Drilling & Shoring, Inc. has been the innovator and industry leader for over 25 years.
DTDS is unique in the geostructural industry in that we employ shotcrete sculptors and ACI-certified shotcreters familiar with the sculpting process and requirements. This allows us to complete earth retaining structures and provide their final architectural finish completely in-house.
Architectural shotcrete is a relatively new concept. It began as a niche installation primarily for water features in private residences starting after WW2, then in the 1990s it became more common in commercial and public works applications. DTDS was part of the first group of contractors who advocated for the wider use of architectural shotcrete in this expanded range of applications.
Architectural shotcrete can be both hand sculpted and formed to provide an aesthetically pleasing finish. Its use has expanded to include retaining wall construction, landslide stabilization, bluff erosion repair, and a variety of other applications. Sculpted shotcrete is often completed faster and at a reduced cost compared to traditional cast-in-place concrete, as well as providing more options when it comes to the wall finish. DTDS’ finish type categories include Flatwork, Stonework, Faux Rock, and Specialty.
Additionally, DTDS can stain shotcrete to add to its aesthetic value and aid in the finish looking like the feature it is meant to resemble. Staining is performed with either water-based or acid-based products which provide a wide range of color options to the shotcrete. A variety of application techniques, including airbrush, hand-sprayed, paint brushed/rolled, and other methods can be utilized to allow for additional texturing to be added to the wall’s look.
