Stamped concrete is commonly known as textured, imprinted concrete, or replicated stones. Commonly used types of stone-patterns for this are slate, brick, tile, and wood. This wide range of options makes it a great choice to enhance pool decks, driveways, and patios.
It is also known to be economical because of its affordable installation and low-maintenance. Stamped concrete adds value to every home or commercial building due to various reasons.
Who can Install Stamped Concrete?
Companies like Stamped Concrete Woodlands provide estimates for you if you call them now. A contractor who specializes in either residential or commercial projects is available for you.
It is essential to find a contractor who can show you a portfolio of their work with stamped concrete. Local-based contractors are known for their success, and the community makes a referral for their successful projects in town.
The experts will also conduct actual tests of the designs and colors they offer. Some stamped concrete contractors have showrooms with all their samples on display. Some provide free site-visitations for accurate evaluation and planning.
Another alternative is to visit the contractor’s site, where they display photos of their projects and describe the types of decorative concrete they specialize in.
How Does It Compare to Other Materials?
Stamped concrete is far better than other conventional floorings decors.
Cost
Installing stamped concrete will cost significantly less than installing natural stone surfaces. Even though a few lower-end paver alternatives may at first have a lower cost, they may end up costing more.
In the long run, you will need to pay more for maintenance, repair, or replacement. You don’t have to experience these with stamped concrete.
Installation
Stamped concrete is laid carefully and quickly over the slab before the concrete sets to attain consistent results. The design, equipment, and tools must be planned and prepared, thoroughly as well.
After the concrete is poured, the next is color hardeners, and discharge operators are applied using the right consistency. The concrete is tested again before stamping designs.
Lastly, specifying and cutting compression joints finishes the installation. Compared to common stone or precast paver, stamped concrete sets and cures quicker.
Customization and Appearance
No other decorative flooring system offers various design and color choices and customization. Concrete stamping is exceptionally practical. The patterns engraved on the stamp-mats replicate other natural flooring materials. Attain natural-looking colors from genuine stone.
Professional concrete contractors usually use the dry-shake color technique. Then they combine it together with surface-applied coloring mediums.
Usually, the result looks way better than the natural stone. Stamping the concrete creates a seamless monolithic surface, reducing gaps between the slabs. Unlike pavers, weed in between the joints will not grow, and it will not decay.
Maintenance
With minimal maintenance, stamped concrete can last for decades. Comparing it with other surfaces such as precast pavers or natural stone require continuous care to keep weeds from growing between them.
If installed correctly, it will stand against extreme warm and cold weather. It could be stronger in some cases than standard concrete if a color hardener were used during installation. Most contractors also apply a sealer to protect it from abrasions and makes it easier to clean.
In general, a concrete stamping system can be used in residences or commercial buildings. It does not require removing the existing concrete slab. When investing in permanent properties, it could be best to select the best enhancements that last decades.