What are concrete stamps used for?

Concrete stamps are tools used for imprinting a texture and a pattern into the concrete. The stamping of the concrete takes place just after the concrete is poured and before it sets up. Stamped concrete patterns will make the concrete look like wood, stone, brick, and other materials. Concrete stamping can be used for patios, driveways, sidewalks, or anywhere you pour concrete. Concrete stamps can be made from several different materials. The experts at Concrete Products PRO can help when deciding which kind of concrete stamp is needed for your project.

Is stamped concrete less expensive than using pavers or brick?

In many situations, stamped concrete can cost as much as half less than using bricks or pavers. There are a lot of variables to consider when choosing stamped concrete over brick or pavers. The entire project needs to be assessed based on where the project is located. For instance, one needs to consider the slope of the project. Other factors to consider would be shape and access to the property. Sometimes a project is not conducive to stamped concrete. In most cases where the project is not complex, stamped concrete will be less expensive than using brick or pavers.

Overall, stamped concrete will last longer and will take less time to maintain than other materials one would use. One can maximize their investment in their home or business by utilizing stamped concrete over other materials. Your home or business curb appeal will be greater with stamped concrete. Stamped concrete is very popular for driveways, sidewalks, and decks. Another advantage to stamping concrete over pavers is that stamped concrete can be tinted to a color of choice.

What is the process for stamping concrete?

In the beginning, the process of having stamped concrete is the same as if you were pouring concrete and not stamping it. One will set up all of the forms needed for a project. Before pouring the concrete, one needs to decide on the color of the final stamped concrete project. The coloring is added to the concrete before pouring takes place. After pouring the concrete, one will bull float the concrete surface. A bull float is used to level the concrete after it is poured. This process makes the concrete smooth and makes the concrete durable.

After the bull floating takes place, one will apply a release agent directly to the concrete. The release agent is formulated to make a moisture barrier between the wet concrete and the stamping tools. By doing this, the concrete will not stick to the stamps and will not come apart during the stamping process. At this time, stamp the concrete. Upon completion of the stamping process, it is important to clean the release agent off of the concrete.

After completing these steps, it is essential to seal the concrete. Concrete sealer protects the concrete from UV rays, chemicals, and things that affect untreated concrete. It will make it look nice over the years. It is suggested to reseal your stamped concrete every 2 to 3 years to keep it looking good and to help protect it.

What are the advantages of stamped concrete?

There are a lot of benefits to stamped concrete. You can customize the color and pattern of the concrete to fit you. Stamped concrete performs well and lasts for a long time when maintained. The installation is quicker than using other products. Plus, stamped concrete is low maintenance, and long term maintenance costs are less than using other products. Most of all, stamped concrete is affordable.

Concrete Products PRO can assist with all your stamped concrete needs.

With all of the various types of stamped concrete available to you today, choosing the correct equipment and materials for your stamped concrete project is important. Call or visit Concrete Products PRO, and we will help you with everything you need for your stamped concrete project.