Stamped Concrete
Instead of going with plain surface finishes, stamped concrete is a much better choice for your home and business premises. Stamping is a decorative process that imprints different kinds of patterns on cement while it is still wet. It is a common choice for concrete driveways, sidewalks, patios, pool decks, as well as pathways that surround fountains. Due to the different achievable effects, some people also choose to settle for stamped concrete walls.
How it’s Done
To imprint the desired pattern, you will need to use cement stamps. Anything sturdy enough to create an impression would be suitable. Some good examples include carved wood, as well as something shaped from metal or rubber.
After pressing the stamp on wet concrete, stepping on it or measured strikes with a hammer can ensure that the imprint achieves the correct depth. A bit of oil coating on the interior also helps to keep the stamp from pulling out the wet concrete during removal.
Concrete stamping is a very straightforward procedure. Although it may be tempting to do it on your own, it is prudent to leave such work to an experienced stamped concrete contractor who knows the right techniques to use and how to achieve a professional finish.
The Benefits of Concrete Stamping
So, what exactly makes stamped concrete worth considering? Well, it has many benefits that touch on aesthetics, performance, and even cost-cutting.
● Less Labour Intensive or Time Consuming: Pouring wet concrete and then imprinting patterns on it is much faster and requires less labour compared to laying down individual paving blocks.
● Aesthetic finishes that Increase Property Value: Concrete stamps come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Often, many people use this option to create surfaces that resemble bricks, slate, flagstone, or cobblestone since it is much cheaper and looks just like the real deal.
● Durable Finish with Low Long-Term Maintenance: Lastly, stamped concrete offers a durable option that will hold up well to all kinds of weather. Unlike pavers, it won’t come apart or settle. As a result, this eliminates the risk of slips and falls. Most importantly, stamped concrete requires very little maintenance, the most significant being resealing after every few years.
Stamping your concrete surfaces can benefit you in many ways. Whether you want to do it on your patio, driveway, or pool area, make sure to seek help from experienced cement contractors.
Stamped Concrete Frequently Asked Questions:
Can You Add Color to Stamped Concrete?
It is possible to make your stamped concrete surfaces livelier by adding color with different types of dyes, stains, and tints. To color concrete, you can add a pigmented powder to the mix when it is still wet or apply a colorant hardener after it has cured. The ideal method to use depends on the degree of color change required and the desired look.
How Long Will Stamped Concrete Finish Last?
Despite having a textured finish with grooves, decorative stamped concrete can last as long as a traditional smooth slab. When properly installed and maintained, this type of flooring can last up to 25 years or more.
Keep in mind, though, that some designs are susceptible to damage, especially if used in heavy traffic areas. For instance, stamp patterns with thin edges used on a driveway run a higher risk of cracking. By consulting one of our stamped concrete experts, we can help you choose a design that will work well for your particular surface area, outdoor elements, and estimated traffic.
Why is Sealing Necessary for Stamped Concrete?
Sealing stamped concrete improves its decorative appearance, especially if you choose to add some color to the slab. A sealer will prevent fading caused by harmful UV rays and protect the surface from stains.
Does Stamped Concrete Crack Easily?
It might be tempting to think that all those cut lines added on to concrete when stamping it makes the surface weak. However, with correct installation, stamped concrete does not crack easily. Even though there will be minor cracking over time due to normal wear and tear, this is often hard to detect because it blends in with the joint lines and stamp patterns.
If you are wondering, “Where can I find stamped concrete contractors near me in Oshawa?” make sure to contact us today. We would be glad to discuss your project and offer a free quote. Our concrete experts ensure to hold extensive consultations with you, and they have years of experience that will guarantee results that you will love.
