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.
S
oncrete
Specialists in Decorative Concrete
ublime
olutions LLC
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