As can be seen in the Pantheon, the ancient Romans used simple concrete stamping techniques. Concrete companies that received bids from the government for public works projects in the late nineteenth century and early twentieth centuries used concrete stamps with the company name and the year of concrete pouring. This created a visible historical record about when sidewalks were constructed.
Stamped Concrete is a technique that gives concrete the look of brick, wood, or stone. Concrete is poured using molds with various designs so you can create any pattern that you like.
Stamped concrete can be difficult to replace or repair. Cracks or discoloration can lead to concrete having to be patched or removed completely. It may be difficult to match the repair with the original design.
While permits aren't required in every case, they may be required to build a driveway. The city will usually waive permits if a concrete pron has been placed in a subdivision. Average permit prices range from $50 to $200, if not.
Concrete pouring can be more difficult for driveways under construction. Trees and rocks will need to be removed and uneven ground leveled. To ensure drainage, contractors will grade driveways that are naturally sloped from the house to the street. Additional charges may apply for heavy equipment that is required during site preparation.
Concrete driveway costs can be influenced by their size and thickness. The driveway will require more material if it is larger. A traditional rectangular driveway costs less than a more stylized one like a curved driveway with brick pavers running along its edges. HomeAdvisor says that the average cost of a standard installation is between $4-7 per square foot, which includes materials and labor. Installing a more elaborate driveway will cost you $8 to $18 per sq. foot.
Geographic location determines the cost of labor and materials. The labor costs for materials and labor are more expensive in urban areas than elsewhere. There are some regions that don't allow concrete driveway installation year round. This means that demand and expenses can rise during regular seasons.
If you are looking for unique design elements that coordinate, staining your driveway may be an option. Staining can add texture and depth to your concrete and attracts the attention of anyone who sees it. The cost to stain a driveway is approximately $6-$12 per square foot. It can be done while the concrete is still moist.
Stamped Concrete can be costly depending on the cost of materials and labor, as well as the complexity of the job. But the old adage "You get what your pay for" is true. Stamped concrete is more durable and less expensive than other materials. This can help you save a lot over the lifetime of your project. Stamped concrete can also increase curb appeal, aesthetic value, and return on investment. Basic stamped designs with a single color and pattern are $8 to $12 per sq. foot. Mid-range jobs that include borders or contrasting patterns run $12 to $18/sq. foot. Custom projects can run up to $18/sq. foot. For more pricing information, see our stamped concrete cost chart.)
Stamped concrete can be affected by weathering, erosion, dirt, and traffic. Regular cleaning and resealing concrete can help minimize color changes. You can often restore concrete to its original color by cleaning it and resealing, even if it has been affected by years of neglect.
Stamped concrete is a great option for aesthetics. There are so many color and pattern options. Many people find inspiration in their home's architecture and look for patterns and colors to match the existing stone or tile. For example, if you have brick walls, you could try emulating them with a plain brick-patterned border or choosing a pattern and color scheme to tie in with the rest of your landscape.
Concrete's color can be affected from weathering, pollution, dirt, and other factors. By regularly sealing and cleaning the concrete, you can reduce color change. Even if your concrete color has declined over the years due to neglect or lack of maintenance it can be easily restored to its original form by cleaning and resealing.
If properly installed, stamped concrete will not crack. Even though stamped concrete may experience minor cracking, cracks can often be hard to spot because they blend in with the joint lines and pattern. You can disguise cracks if they become an eyesore. You can find out why concrete cracks here for the basic steps you should take to reduce cracking while still ensuring good performance.
Find stamped concrete contractors near you and learn more about hiring contractors to do exterior concrete work.