Pros and Cons of Stamping Concrete

A stamped concrete patio gives you the look and texture of a stone patio for a lot less than the real thing -- up to 50% less than the cost of natural slate or limestone. 

That’s not all. Stamped concrete can mimic brick, cobblestones, cracked earth, and weathered wood. Add a bit of fun with leaf patterns, animal shapes, even dinosaur footprints.

Best of all, a stamped concrete patio is low-maintenance — the “stones” won’t settle over time, creating uneven surfaces, and there are no grout or joints that can open up to let grass and weeds sprout.

What’s a Stamped Concrete Patio?

A stamped concrete patio is simply a concrete slab with a textured, embossed surface. The contractor:

• Pours and smooths the slab.
• Presses a pattern into the surface while the concrete is still wet and soft.
• For realism, adds color to the concrete as it’s mixed, or sprays it on after the surface has been stamped.

What’s the Deal with the Stamps?

The patterns are made using large, flexible polyurethane stamps. The stamps are about 2-by-2-feet square and an inch or two thick, and they’re pressed into the wet concrete to create the textured finish.

A concrete contractor may step on the stamps to press them into the concrete or use a tamping tool. Before putting the stamp on the concrete, the contractor sprays the patterned side of the stamp with a release agent that prevents concrete from sticking to it.

Using a colored release agent accents cracks and grout lines, giving the finish an “antique” look that enhances realism.

One pattern usually is a set that includes several stamps, each one with varying textures and shapes, so the overall pattern isn’t repeated too frequently. Stamps also have interlocking tabs so any grout lines align perfectly.

Any Drawbacks to a Stamped Concrete Patio?

Very few:

Deep depressions. Although stamped concrete is a good choice for ADA accessibility, be wary of deeply embossed patterns; all that texture may be tempting, but it creates uneven surfaces that make patio furniture wobble and may be hazardous for those with limited mobility. Accessibility guidelines require bumps and ridges on walking surfaces be no more than ¼-inch high.

Fair-weather color. Although you’ll have more color options with surface colorants, the colorants may flake off over time. Have your concrete dyed while it’s being mixed for a more permanent solution.

It’s got a ‘tell’. As good as stamped concrete may look, aficionados of real brick and stone will know the difference.

Can I Add a Stamped Finish to an Existing Patio Slab?

Yes, you can, as long as your old slab is stable and in good condition. You’ll be raising the height of the old slab by an inch or so, so you’ll want to make sure the new level doesn’t interfere with existing steps or vents in your foundation walls. The new concrete shouldn’t touch your siding, either.

A pro will prepare the existing slab by cleaning it and covering it with a bonding agent that ensures good adhesion between the old concrete and the new.

Then, your contractor will cover the old slab with new concrete, and apply the stamps.

Source: houselogic

EJ & Jr Concrete is a family owned, all our work is guaranteed. No matter the size of your project, we are ready to do. Effective planning is crucial to the successful completion of any project. Before starting the project, our team of experts will first assess your goals. Then we provide you with an estimate and time-line for completion. From beginning to end you will be involved every step of the way call at +1 832-216-4950.

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