Stamped concrete can also wear down under heavyweight and traffic. Patios and driveways should be resurfaced approximately every 5 to 7 year.
Heated driveways have been popularized in colder climates, where there is often a lot snow and ice. You can keep your driveway safe by installing a radiant heating unit under it to prevent ice from building up. A heated driveway typically costs $10 to $20 per sq. foot. Concrete is not able to withstand frigid temperatures. Heating the concrete can increase the lifespan of your driveway. It's an excellent investment and selling point.
Pavers however, need some care to remain in their best condition. Sealing the tiles is done by filling the space between pavers with sand. These can eventually wear away or become unusable, so tiles will need re-sealed.
Stamped concrete appears very real because stamping mats are usually made from the materials they are meant to imitate. Many stamped concrete contractors combine integral or dry-shake color with surface-applied coloring medias to create natural-looking colors. Stamped concrete actually looks better than the real thing. There is no weed growth or moss growth between joints and the concrete won't rot, split, or crack if it's mimicking wood planking.
Are you ready to put a concrete driveway down? You'll need a concrete driveway to replace your existing driveway. The average driveway cost in the United States is $3,000 and ranges from $1800 to $6,000. The concrete driveway is a good investment as it will protect your landscaping, prevent erosion, and improve your curb appeal. Concrete driveways that are made from traditional concrete are popular because they are easy to install and cost-effective. Concrete driveway costs will vary depending on how large and thick the driveway is. But labor costs, shapes, decorative elements and structural requirements all play a role in the final price. Professional driveway contractors can manage the terrain while laying long-lasting concrete driveways.
Concrete driveways are extremely strong. Concrete driveways are very strong and can withstand the most heavy vehicles.
Do you wish that your backyard and patio were more comfortable and easier to use for entertaining or relaxing?
When properly installed, stamped concrete is extremely resistant to cracking. Stamped concrete can withstand minor cracking. However, cracks that do develop will blend into the pattern and join lines. There are ways to hide cracks that can be an eyesore. For basic steps to reduce cracking and improve performance, see Why Concrete Cracks.
Concrete slabs need to be sealed and maintained annually. It is possible to stain concrete with oil or fluids that have leaked from vehicles.
If installed correctly, stamped concrete is very resistant to cracking. Even if stamp concrete does experience some cracking, it is often difficult to see because cracks often blend into the pattern or joint lines. There are many ways to conceal cracks that become an eyesore. Check out Why Concrete Cracks to learn the basics of how you can minimize cracking and maintain good performance.
The most durable and longest-lasting paving material, stamped concrete requires less maintenance than regular replacements. It is recommended that stamped concrete be cleaned and sealed every two to three years. However, this will vary depending on how much foot or car traffic the area has, the weather conditions, chemical usage, weather conditions, and other factors. A basic cleaning is enough to clean the concrete with a pressure washer or garden hose, mild detergent, and a push-broom. The surface is stronger and more resistant to abrasion. Sealers and color hardeners help prevent water, stains and chemicals from getting in. It's a good idea, however, to immediately remove any oil, grease, or other spillages. Call us for more information about how to seal and clean stamped concrete.
Stamped concrete often has a more slip-resistant surface than conventional concrete because it is textured. But, stamped concrete can be slippery if it has been wetted or if a film forming sealer is applied. You can increase the slip resistance of stamped concrete if it is going to be used in high-traffic areas like an entryway or pool deck. Talk to your contractor if there are any questions.
Concrete that has been stamped is concrete that has had its texture or imprinted to look like brick, slate or flagstone. Concrete stamping has been practiced since the time of the ancient Romans. Concrete was stamped with the names of contractors and years in the 19th and 20th centuries. However, the term "stamped concrete", which is now used primarily for decorative concrete that has been produced using modern techniques, such as patios, driveways and pool decks, became a synonym for concrete with modern uses.
Stamped concrete has a few drawbacks. It can be very difficult to repair or replace. If cracks develop or concrete becomes discolored, it can be repaired or cut out completely. It is sometimes difficult to match the repaired area with the original design.