Natural stone patterns, such as flagstone, fieldstone, and slate, are the most common types of stamped concrete. The next most popular types of stamped concrete are cobblestone, brick, and wood. There are also seamless stamps which give texture, but not with joint patterns. You can press patterns into concrete even for complex projects that have steps and fountains.
Concrete is not the most DIY-friendly material. Concrete driveways are difficult to pour, so it is best to hire a professional.
Concrete prices vary depending upon the type of concrete used. You can have your driveway stained or stamped, but most driveways are made of plain gray concrete. These decorative features add value and cost more, but they are very attractive. A stained driveway may cost from $6 to $12 per sq. foot, while a stamped driveway might cost $8 to $15.
Polished concrete is not recommended as an outdoor driveway material because it can slip when wet. Concrete driveways are usually left as-is or come with a texture, broom finish or exposed aggregate finish. Installation costs for a plain finish range between $6 and $8 per sq. ft. While basic finishes run $8 to $12,
You should consider a few other factors when budgeting concrete driveway costs. To ensure a driveway that is stable and sturdy, the terrain may require additional work or materials. Some specialty designs can also be required at an additional cost.
Concrete is extremely strong and can withstand extreme weather. Concrete is a popular choice in landscaping design, but homeowners may not prefer the look of poured concrete.
In the 1970s, stamped concrete was a more common component in construction projects. Jon Nasvik, a manufacturer of lightweight and durable concrete stamps, created them in the late 1970s. His plastic stamps could be used to imprint pattern and texture on wet concrete.
The cost of concrete driveways is almost half labor. If the average cost is $4 to $7 per foot, then labor will usually make up $2 to $3 per foot and concrete costs the rest. It takes laborers to prepare the site, create the concrete forms and add rebar, then lay the concrete. Once the concrete has cured the forms will be removed.
An old driveway must be removed in order to create a new concrete driveway. Driveways in disrepair must be dismantled and hauled off to the dump. A driveway contractor usually charges $1-4 per square foot and has the ability to access the equipment necessary to perform this huge job quickly.
When installed properly, stamped concrete is resistant to cracking. Even if there is minor cracking in stamped concrete, they are difficult to identify because they often blend with the pattern lines and joint lines. There are ways you can hide cracks from the eyes if they become a problem. Look at Why Concrete Cracks to see the most basic steps that you can take in order to minimize cracking, and still ensure high performance.
Do-it-yourself projects are not advised. If you run out time or can't take it apart to re-do it, you will not be able finish it later. You can't do it all. Sub-base preparation, concrete mix, gauging when the concrete is ready to be stamped, and finally finishing the job before it hardens are just a few of the many problems that can occur. If you plan to use your stamping tools and materials on multiple projects, they can cost hundreds of bucks. You should read these nine reasons why stamping concrete is not for you.
Plain concrete can look rather boring. However, concrete can be colored and stamped for a unique and beautiful surface.
Stamped surfaces can last for decades, just like regular concrete. They are easy to install and maintain, even in harsh winter conditions. Stamped concrete can sometimes be even more durable that standard concrete. This is especially true when a color-hardener was used during its construction. Sealers are applied by contractors to stamped concrete to prevent it from abrasion and wear.
Concrete prices will vary depending on what type of concrete is used. The majority of driveways are made from plain gray concrete. However, you can make it more appealing by having a stamped or stained driveway. These decorative features are more expensive, but make for a great feature. A stamped driveway can be purchased for $8 to $15, while a stained driveway will cost $6 to $12 per square feet.