STAMPED CONCRETE
Stamping concrete is an exciting way to add some personal flair to your otherwise standard concrete. Most clients install concrete on varying outdoor surfaces, and sometimes indoors for their flooring. Stamped concrete is very versatile and looks great across virtually any surface. You can stamp your driveway, patio, interior flooring, deck, walkways, and porches as well. The possibilities with stamped concrete are endless, especially when you have our team on your side to give you some inspiration!
What is Stamped Concrete?
Stamped concrete is a customization technique used to add structure and texture to your traditional concrete. Standard concrete is often a smooth, yet rigid, uniform surface. When you decide to stamp your concrete, however, you’re giving your concrete an enhanced design or pattern using a stencil that allows for the concrete to dry in that design. The patterns can often mimic other favored building materials, such as brick or stone. Stamped concrete is a great way to give your concrete a makeover to add to its beauty and appeal.
How is Stamped Concrete Installed?
Stamped concrete isn’t installed as is. Instead, it requires installing standard concrete, or pouring it into the desired surface area, and adding a stencil on top of the wet concrete that later allows it to dry in the desired pattern. This means that you’re able to customize any concrete surface that is freshly poured. You can also mix and match your stamped concrete shapes and sizes to accommodate the area you’re having stamped. Once the concrete has completely cured, it will then hold its shape and is ready for a sealant and topcoat of your choosing. You can also consider staining your concrete, which includes adding coloring to the surface layer as well.
Is Stamped Concrete Expensive?
Stamped concrete may look expensive, but it's actually a lot more affordable than you may think. Stamped concrete is a customization service that's added to your existing concrete project. It's an affordable way to give your outdoor surfaces a custom design without having to invest in the more expensive alternatives, including natural stone and brick. Stamped concrete can also be tailored to your preferences and space you have available, so you won't be overbuying supplies either. Lastly, concrete is often more durable than some other materials and is low maintenance, so you'll spend less in the long run being able to upkeep it without extensive costs.
Does Stamped Concrete Require Extensive Maintenance?
As mentioned above, stamped concrete does not require extensive maintenance and most cracks can be filled with a crack filler. Just like traditional concrete, it can be prone to cracking if it freezes and then thaws, or if the original mixture wasn’t consistent enough to allow for adequate drying. Having too much moisture in the mixture can lead to cracks, just like not having enough moisture can as well. Therefore, it’s vital that your contractor installing the concrete and pouring it into the frames has properly mixed it with the right water to cement ratios.
