When you think of concrete, you may think of strong and durable, but also grey and boring. If you’re looking for the strength and economical value of concrete and the beauty of tile or brick, stamped concrete is the perfect choice for you! With endless options for colour, pattern, and style, stamped concrete is a great option for anyone looking to beautify their outdoor space.
There may have been times you admired a neighbour’s front steps, a public park’s winding path, or your friend’s backyard patio. If they were colourful or looked like it was tiled, they were probably created with stamped concrete. If you were hoping for brick pavers in your backyard or slate stone for a pathway but found it too expensive, you’re in luck! Long lasting and beautiful, with an endless combination of patterns and colours available, there’s so much to love about stamped concrete.
What is stamped concrete?
Stamped concrete is concrete, but dyed and shaped into patterns or textures that imitate other types of materials that may be more costly or unavailable. It’s sometimes called patterned concrete, textured concrete, or imprinted concrete and it can replicate stones like slate, tile, brick, and even wood!
Generally, stamped concrete is slightly thinner than regular concrete and made with finer stones to allow for accurate stamping. Stamped concrete can last as long as 25 years, as long as regular concrete. Along with its versatility for custom options and inexpensiveness, this makes stamped concrete ideal for any type of outdoor space such as patios, stairs, paths, and entryways.
Why stamped concrete?
Design - With stamped concrete, you can get virtually any colour and pattern you want! Even if it’s not the true material it is imitating, you can get a lovely high-end look. You can match or complement your house’s style and colour, and get that exact look you saw in a home magazine. You can make your area unique to you and create your own pattern, or pick a template or inspiration from another source.
Long-lasting - Because this type of paving is real concrete, it also has the durability of concrete. It can last more than 25 years with proper maintenance and once sealed, is weather resistant, unlike the materials it mimics.
Cost effective - Actual stone, brick, or stone pavers can be very costly in terms of both materials and labour. Concrete is much more inexpensive, and you can get a very similar effect!
Easy maintenance - Once the stamped concrete is sealed, it’s relatively easy to maintain. We can help with the cleaning and sealing process which we recommend once every 2-3 years.
High value - Installing a stamped concrete driveway is a great way to increase the value of your home. Other elements such as patios, walkways, and entryways can also add curb appeal, making your house attractive to guests and buyers alike.
Installing stamped concrete
Prepping the terrain - In the lower mainland, there are areas that aren’t completely flat, so we’ll make sure to account for any dips and slopes that occur in the area you want paved. In addition, we’ll lay down a solid foundation if your space requires, so you’ll get a perfectly sturdy paved ground.
Application - First, we’ll pour the dyed concrete and then smooth it over to ensure an even surface. Next, we’ll stamp the concrete with the desired pattern, and apply even pressure before removing the stamp. Our process is tried, tested, and true, so you know you’ll get the high quality stamped concrete you’re looking for.
Finishing - The sealant is important as it helps to stand up to the weather and regular wear and tear. This makes it easy to clean and hard for moisture and other potentially problematic elements to get inside. A great high gloss sealer can also improve the look, making it shiny and fresh.
Maintaining stamped concrete
If your stamped concrete area is professionally installed and sealed, it requires very little maintenance! A high pressure rinse and scrub with a broom is all it really needs regularly. Pressure washing is an option, although we advise not to have it on a high setting as this could damage the textured surface. Here are some things we recommend avoiding to ensure the longevity of your surface:
Leaf and debris build-up that can retain moisture and cause stains
Salt and other de-icing materials that could contain corrosive chemicals
Skidding tires and turning the wheel while in place
Metal shovels or other tools that could scratch the surface - we recommend a leaf-blower or plastic tools
We recommend your stamped concrete surface be professionally cleaned and sealed every 2-3 years for best results.Repairs and installation can be quite difficult and finicky, so it’s definitely best to let the pros handle it. If done incorrectly, they can be more susceptible to cracks, deterioration, and fading. All the more reason to let the experts at Burnaby Concrete Contractors handle it!