Do you wish your garden or patio were more enjoyable and better designed to entertain or relax?
Stamped concrete looks extremely realistic, as stamping mats can be molded from the same materials that they are intended to duplicate. Concrete contractors commonly use integral or dry shake color along with surface-applied colors to create natural-looking variations. Stamped concrete can look better than real concrete, as it doesn't harbor moss, weeds, or any other growth, and won't rot if you mimic wood planking.
Stamped concrete is not cheap depending on how complicated the job is and what materials and labor are needed. However, the old saying, "You get what you pay" still holds true. Stamped concrete will last longer than other materials and require less maintenance. This can lead to significant savings over the life of your home. Stamped concrete will increase curb appeal and aesthetic value, which will allow you to maximize your return on investment. Basic stamped designs in one color or one pattern cost $8-12 per square feet. Mid-range jobs with borders and contrasting patterns can cost $12-$18 per square pied, while high-end custom projects may cost $18 per sq foot. For more pricing information, see our stamped concrete cost chart.)
The biggest problem with stamped concrete is the difficulty of replacing or repairing it. It can be difficult to repair or replace stamped concrete if it cracks or becomes discolored. It is not always possible to match the new design with the old.
Concrete is an economical option when you consider its longevity. It's possible to only have a driveway completed once per homeowner.
Concrete is designed on-site so that you can decide the color and design. Concrete layers can be modified to add cement coloring, to give it a natural stone-like or marbled look.
The Pantheon is a well-known example of a Roman structure that used concrete stamping. Concrete companies that won government bids on public works projects used concrete stamps that included the company name and sometimes the years of concrete pouring. This allowed for visible historical records about the construction of sidewalks.
Depending on the area you live in, driveways can either be made of concrete or asphalt. Concrete driveways offer a low cost option and a long-lasting design. These are three types concrete to consider when you budget for concrete driveway costs.
Stamped concrete doesn't require much maintenance unless it is being misused. Concrete that has been poured can crack or wear down due to its strength. This is not the best choice for patios that have large furniture pieces or driveways.
Concrete driveways are usually functional for between 25 to 50 year depending on how durable they were built and how well maintained. A basic concrete driveway, laid over a gravel base by professionals will cost between $4 and $10 per square feet. A 16 x38 driveway would cost $3900. The national average is $6 per square foot. However, the cost of a stamped or colored finish can easily double. If you have to remove a slab from your home, expect to pay slightly more.
Concrete is not easy to work with for large projects. Concrete driveways require hard labor. For most people, professional installation will be the best choice.
Later, platform stamped would be made from aluminum or sheet metal. Bill Stegmeier, a member of the Stegmeier Company discovered in 1956 that a color powder which was used to add an antiquing to concrete had the property to prevent stamps from sticking to concrete. This opened new avenues.
A border around the edges of a concrete driveway can add style and flair to it. To enhance the concrete driveway's appearance, bricks and paving stones are great options for borders. A brick or stone border can be added for $6-$15 per linear foot. These borders can be installed by most driveway contractors, or sub-contracted to bricklayers.
The beauty of stamped concrete is its unlimited color and pattern choices. People often draw inspiration from their surroundings or homes' architectural style to choose patterns and colors that complement existing stone, tile, or textured concrete elements. Consider reusing a brick-patterned border on your house to echo the brick theme. You can also choose a color scheme that is consistent with the surrounding landscape.