“Several other companies have stuck their toe in the water of decorative concrete engraving, but no one holds a candle to the technology we have developed. Part of the reason we stay ahead is we continue to push ahead in terms of the equipment we design and the training we provide.”
—Brandon Adamson

How did the company get started?
Darrel:
I invented a machine that engraves designs into concrete, eliminates the back-breaking work of other systems, costs less, and can create a nearly infinite range of permanent colors, patterns and graphic reproductions on interior floors or exterior surfaces. It evolved into the Engrave-A-Crete® System, an exciting and rewarding business opportunity that is accessible to many people and features first-rate training and ongoing technical support. We have a passion for the quality of the equipment we manufacture and the success of our customers. The company is growing quickly and has entered the international arena. We recently opened a second facility in Mansfield, MO; our original headquarters is in Bradenton, FL.

Who buys your equipment and how is it sold?
Brandon:
The ‘who’ can be almost anyone: retired airline pilots, business people, doctors and lawyers; anyone who has dreamed of being an entrepreneur. We provide all of the tools needed to succeed. Some owners operate alone, while others hire a helper or two and an increasing number are managing multiple crews in diff e rent locations. Some of our customers add the Engrave-A-Crete® System to an existing business, some work full time and others part time. This is not physically diff icult work and an increasing number of women are starting their own businesses. People can start with a single machine or purchase a turn-key operation in the form of a 14-foot trailer that is fully outfitted with our most popular concrete engravers and organized for easy access, use and storage. In all, we offer seven business start-up packages. We don’t get involved in the operation of the business — that is entirely up to the owner.

Where and how can the Engrave-A-Crete System be used?
Darrel:
Virtually anyplace where concrete has been poured. This includes driveways, garages, parking lots, entranceways, walks, basements, pool decks and patios, in residential and commercial locations.

Can you describe the Engrave-A-Crete® System?
Darrel:
It consists of several patented p rocesses combined to remodel concrete into almost any appearance. It does not require pouring new concrete. Instead, a deep penetrating stain is used to transform the color and then a permanent, precise pattern is cut into the hard concrete using our patented concrete engravers. The Engrave-A-Crete® Process is not a topping or overlay that could chip off. Our system can make concrete look like more expensive flooring materials, such as brick, tile, slate, polished marble or fieldstone. We can decorate concrete with geometric designs, corporate logos or virtually any pattern or themed design. This work doesn’t require a bit of artistic talent although we find it develops as people use our patented systems as a guide.

How do you train the people who buy your equipment?
Darrel:
Our four-day training seminars have been carefully designed to provide the specific knowledge we know our customers will need to create a successful business. We also offer a 1.5 hour training video that completely describes the process. Our customers enjoy ongoing technical help - at no cost.