It is recommended that you seal your stamped concrete every three to four years. It is not necessary to seal every year. Several factors can caused stamped concrete to lose the intensity of its color, so this does not necessarily mean it needs resealed. Products like Rejuvenator are designed to restore heavily coated sealers that have started to soften, fade, or peel. Our Sealer Survival Kits can walk you through the process of determining what sealer is on your concrete and if it is time for a reseal. If you determine that it is time to reseal your concrete two thin coats are always better than one thick coat. Sealing not only protects your concrete from the elements but brings colors and textures to life.
Yes, there are products you can add to increase traction. By adding a slip resistant additive to the sealer before applying it you can increase traction and reduce the likelihood that someone would slip. Deco Grip is a great option for this purpose. It is designed as an additive to a five gallon pail of any acrylic sealer, and comes in three grits:100, 60, and 40.
A common misconception about stamped concrete is that there is no need for control joints in the concrete. Stamped concrete is just as susceptible to cracking as regular concrete. To control where the concrete will crack an inch deep saw cut is made through the entirety of the surface. While many people do not like to see a saw cut going through their stamped concrete, there are ways to make cracking inconspicuous.
The time it takes to complete a stamp job is dependent on many factors. A typical job can take anywhere from 1 day to several weeks. Depending on the size of the job, the intricacy of the shape, and the weather conditions all play a role in time of completion.
Each contractor is likely to charge a different rate for their work. Typical cost range from $15 to $20 a square foot depending on color, pattern, and extras like borders and steps.
Concrete overlays vary in cost. A thin microtopping that is applied at no more than an 1/8 of an inch can cost anywhere from $5 to $7 per square foot installed. If you go with a decorative microtopping the cost depends how much detail is in the work. A stamped overlay is the most expensive type of overlay typically costing 10 - $15 per square foot and up.
Concrete overlays, if installed properly, are just as durable a standard concrete. The main step in installing an overlay is surface preparation. As long as the contractor takes proper measure to ensure that the overlay is capable of adhering to the existing surface there should not be a problem. Overlay material consists of polymer modified latex liquid which is in essence glue. When the liquid is mixed with the concrete powder a material is created that has the adhesion of glue but maintains the durability of concrete.
When it comes to stamping concrete there are numerous colors and patterns that are available. While choices can be a good thing, the task of selecting the right colors and patterns for a permanent fixture can be daunting. Each situation is unique, and our helpful staff can walk you through the process of selecting the right texture and color for you. All of our locations are equipped with multiple sample boards of stamped concrete with a variety of designs to give you an idea of what your color selections will look like installed.
If you don’t like the color of your patio there are several things that can be done. None of which are very cost effective. This is why it is important to be sure of the colors your pick out before you begin your project. Most contractors are willing to make a small sample to show you how the colors and patterns you pick will look before they pour the entire slab.
If your concrete has not been sealed and you do not like the color, you can tint the color of the surface with acid or water based stains. This would be the easiest approach but you must make sure that the concrete has not been sealed.
