Unlike paving stones that can shift or crack over time, stamped concrete stays put. As long as the right mix is used, proper drainage is addressed and it isn’t subject to substantial on-surface weight, stamped concrete will last.
While natural materials like flagstones and bricks can add a beautiful aesthetic, they are costly. For a more affordable option, consider Stamped Concrete Charles Town WV.
Concrete is versatile material that can be shaped and colored to create many different types of surfaces. Advances in concrete tools, color staining and dyes, textures, and stamps have opened the doors to endless possibilities. The resulting designs are not only beautiful, but they’re also long-lasting and durable.
Stamped concrete can be used to make a wide variety of surfaces, from driveways and patios to pool decks and commercial spaces. It can even be used indoors as a floor covering or wall cladding.
Before beginning a stamped concrete project, it’s important to decide on the final design. There are five basic pattern types to choose from: brick, stone, slate, wood, and textural. Once the type is decided upon, it’s time to pick a color. The base color is created either through integral coloring or by using a color hardener in the concrete mix. This step is what gives the concrete its final look and feel.
The accent color, on the other hand, is applied to the stamps after the concrete has been poured. This helps produce the texture of the finished product and shows any additional building materials (e.g. grout) in the concrete. It is usually sprayed on, but it can also be sprinkled.
Once the color and pattern have been chosen, it’s time to begin the actual installation process. A skilled and experienced contractor should be able to complete the job in a day or less.
The most common uses for stamped concrete are patios, walkways, and driveways. However, it can also be a great flooring option in the kitchen, bathroom, and dining room. It’s also an excellent choice for floors in commercial buildings, because it’s easy to clean and doesn’t harbor bacteria. A downside of stamped concrete is that it’s prone to cracking, especially in cold climates. It’s best to seal the concrete every two-three years to protect it from moisture and stains.
Driveways
The chic style of a stamped concrete driveway offers an alternative to pavers at a fraction of the cost. They are also quite long-lasting and easy to maintain. The longevity and durability of a stamped concrete slab depend on how well it’s sealed, and it is important to have your driveway re-sealed every three or four years to prevent damage from moisture, sun exposure and de-icing.
A contractor uses large polyurethane stamps to press patterns into wet concrete, and the resulting textured finish can mimic the look of fractured earth, real stone or wood. These stamped concrete designs are ideal for walkway paths around gardens, to highlight features in the yard or to outline hot tub areas and outdoor entertainment spaces.
Concrete contractors use a powdered or liquid color release to coat the concrete stamps prior to applying them to the wet concrete, and they apply either cast-on or spray-on color. The color releases prevent the concrete from sticking to the stamps, and it also helps accent cracks and divots in the final product for added realism. The contractor may choose to use the same pattern on all areas of the slab, or he or she may repeat the same stamp with different colors in various spots to create a unique design.
A basic stamped concrete project will cost $8-$28 per square foot, but the price varies depending on customization and coatings. Stencilling is a specialty element that costs extra, and curved walkways, pool decks or complex arcs can raise the total bill significantly. It’s wise to hire a professional team that has experience with concrete construction for these types of projects, and they can work within your budget to get you the look you desire.
Patios
Patios are a great place for homeowners to unwind and relax. They’re also the perfect area to host friends and family. Traditionally, homeowners choose to build their patios with materials such as flagstones, bricks, or pavers. Those materials can be expensive, but there’s an alternative that offers the same look at a fraction of the price. A backyard stamped concrete patio can add value and curb appeal to your property, and it’s also easy to maintain.
Unlike pavers that can get displaced by shifting soil, stamped concrete stays in place and is less likely to crack. While concrete is still susceptible to hairline cracking, it’s much easier to repair than a cracked paver patio or a wood deck. Plus, you won’t have to worry about weeds growing between the stones, or water and termites damaging the surface.
A backyard stamped concrete patio can be customized with a variety of textures, patterns, and color options. For example, the contractor who worked on this patio used a two-toned technique to match the bricks of the home. This created a cohesive look that tied into the surrounding landscape. The decorative concrete was also stained to provide an authentic stone effect.
If you’re interested in installing a backyard stamped concrete patio, contact a professional for an estimate. Be sure to compare quotes and customer reviews before making a decision. Additionally, make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. This will protect you in case something goes wrong during the installation process. Also, check the company’s website to see if they have examples of their work. This will give you a better idea of the type of work they do and their level of expertise.
Pool Decks
The pool deck around your backyard swimming oasis can be made of a variety of materials, but concrete is an ideal choice. It’s durable, affordable and versatile. It can be textured and stained to achieve the appearance of other materials such as pavers, slate, wood or brick in a design-friendly way. It also holds up well to harsh pool chemicals, constant water exposure and fading when adequately sealed.
Unlike pavers, which require mortar between each unit, concrete is installed as a single slab that can be seamlessly integrated into the surrounding landscape. It also doesn’t get hot to the touch, which is comfortable for bare feet on warm summer days. Additionally, concrete is easy to clean: sweep it regularly and wash it with a mild detergent or high-pressure water spray to remove dirt, debris and algae. A sealant applied every few years will protect the color and prevent staining from chlorine, sunscreen and other contaminants.
Textured concrete offers added traction, which helps prevent slips and falls on the wet surface. It’s available in a wide range of patterns, impressions and textures including sawcut lines that mimic natural stone.
Stenciling is another option for decorative concrete. By using paper stencils and powdered pigments to outline brick or stone patterns in fresh concrete, a professional can create the look of tile, slate, brick or stone at a budget-conscious price.
A common concern about stamped concrete is its slippery nature when wet, but it can be made less so by adding a non-slip grit additive to the sealer. This, however, doesn’t guarantee a completely slip-free surface and it will need to be maintained to keep the texture safe.
Outdoor Kitchens
Whether you’re grilling the day away or hosting an evening wine tasting, having a fully functioning outdoor kitchen can simplify your backyard entertaining. An outside kitchen can eliminate trips back and forth to the inside house for supplies, and can also provide a great place for family members to join in on cooking or preparing drinks.
Choose a hardy material for your kitchen’s countertop and cabinetry, such as poured concrete or natural stone. Pair cool and warm finishes for a balanced look, like this stone patio kitchen from Crisp Architects that incorporates stacked stone for added texture and wood base cabinets for warmth. A wood clad ceiling defines the area as a separate room and offers protection from sun and rain.
An outdoor kitchen can add a splash of style and flair to any backyard pool, patio, or deck. Mix in a pop of color with a brightly painted door or an eye-catching backsplash, or keep it minimal with sleek, contemporary outdoor cabinets, like those from Werever. If you want to create a focal point with your grill island, choose a striking accent like this waterfall edge island from Michelle Boudreau Design.
When evaluating the cost of an outdoor kitchen, don’t forget to factor in plumbing and electrical costs. You may need a new gas line for an outdoor range or an electrical outlet to power appliances. A professional can help you estimate these additional expenses. Ensure that all your cabinets are water-resistant by choosing waterproof materials for their construction and finish. Cabinet doors that are held together with screws tend to warp over time, so look for a hinge system designed for exterior use.