| Stamped Concrete When considering stamped concrete there are 2 options. Stamped Concrete and a Stamped Concrete Overlay. Stamped Concrete is a process whereby an area is framed, re-bar is placed in the frame, concrete is poured and while the concrete is in its plastic state, it is colored and stamped. A Stamped Concrete Overlay is placed on top of existing concrete. In this process the existing deck is prepared to accept the overlay, then the overlay is applied, and when the overlay concrete is in its plastic state it is stamped. Color is added later. Stamped Concrete is usually pour 4 inches deep. A color hardener is added to achieve a base color. The color hardener also hardens the surface of the concrete to give the surface better abrasion and wear resistance. After the hardener is applied a powdered release is applied. The powdered release will provide the antiquing color in your stamped patio/deck. Additional colors can be added. When considering a new patio, or expanding an existing patio this is most likely the best option. A Stamped Concrete Overlay, is applied at ¼ to 3/8 of an inch deep. It is just enough concrete to receive the imprint from the stamp. For the overlay to be applied, all existing coatings must be removed first. After the coatings are removed the deck is thoroughly washed, then Acid Etched and neutralized. After this preparation we apply the top coat of concrete, stamp it, color it and apply 2 coats of sealer. For areas that already have a deck, and the owner is interested in changing the look, this is the ideal solution. The existing deck does not need to be removed. There is some debate in the industry regarding whether Stamped Concrete Overlays will hold up as well as Stamped concrete. The main concern is around delamination (peeling of the new concrete). From our experience (we do both), overlays perform extremely well, if control joints are honored and adequate preparation is performed. We offer a 5 year warranty that specifically covers delamination. On all of our outdoor projects we apply a skid guard in our sealer to help reduce the hazard of slipping. |
