Cemcrete, a leader in cement-based decorative finishes, has unveiled two innovative products – BrickWash and Pool Quartz. These textured cement finishes are designed to meet the needs of architects and designers seeking durable, tactile surfaces that celebrate materiality and tonal variation. Inspired by natural landscapes, both products offer a handcrafted aesthetic that prioritises authenticity over uniformity.

BrickWash: A versatile cement wall finish

Cemcrete introduces BrickWash, a versatile, brush-on cement wall finish designed for both interior and exterior applications. This innovative product creates a rugged, layered texture when applied directly to brick or plaster. By mimicking the look of traditional cement finishes, BrickWash not only enhances aesthetics but also reduces labour and installation time, making it a practical choice for a variety of projects.

Application benefits

BrickWash simplifies the application process by requiring only a single coat, applied with a large block brush. This method often eliminates the need for plaster, significantly speeding up onsite work. Additionally, the system self-cures to a rock-hard mineral finish, ensuring high durability and excellent weather resistance.

Aesthetic appeal

BrickWash offers a curated selection of colourways, including Sahara, Namib and Mojave, which deliver subtle tonal variations that enhance its natural, lived-in aesthetic. To further customise the finish, professionals can use sealers to adjust the final tone. For precise colour selection, Cemcrete recommends creating on-site samples to account for the impact of sealers on the finish.

Technical details

The BrickWash system includes a CemBond primer, BrickWash mixed with CreteBond, and a choice of sealers. Supplied as a powder, it is easy to transport and store, adding to its practicality for both small and large-scale projects.

Pool Quartz: A seamless quartz pool finish

Cemcrete’s Pool Quartz delivers a high-performance quartz finish, making it an ideal solution for pools and transitional water-to-land zones. Its seamless application transforms pool shells, steps, surrounds, and seating into a cohesive and elegant design, elevating the overall aesthetic of any space.

Design flexibility

Pool Quartz offers exceptional design versatility. Professionals can choose between a smooth finish for a sleek, polished look or an acid-washed treatment to reveal quartz aggregate. This acid-washed option adds a subtle shimmer, enhancing underwater aesthetics and creating a unique visual effect.

Durability and performance

Engineered for durability, Pool Quartz withstands the rigorous demands of both residential and commercial pools. Its robust performance ensures long-lasting quality, making it a reliable choice for a wide range of projects.

Project highlight

The versatility of Pool Quartz shines in its application at the Alphonse Island Lodge in the Seychelles. For this project, the finish was customised in a unique ‘Seychelles’ blush tone, demonstrating its ability to adapt to bespoke design requirements and deliver a truly tailored finish.

A commitment to materiality and sustainability

Cemcrete actively demonstrates its commitment to materiality and sustainability through both BrickWash and Pool Quartz. These products significantly reduce onsite labour and curing time, enhancing efficiency while minimising environmental impact. Inspired by desert and shoreline landscapes, their handcrafted aesthetic aligns with contemporary design trends that celebrate imperfection and tactility.

Why specify Cemcrete?

Since its establishment in 1973, Cemcrete has built a strong reputation for manufacturing high-quality cement-based finishes in South Africa. Moreover, with a comprehensive network of showrooms and distributors, the company effectively supports projects across Africa and beyond. Architects and designers can confidently rely on Cemcrete for innovative solutions that seamlessly combine durability, aesthetics, and ease of application, making it a trusted partner in the design and construction industry.