The Appeal of Stamped Concrete

Stamped Concrete is growing in popularity for its ability to supercede previous "curb appeal" applications. If the goal is to define the exterior so that you can entice prospective buyers to remember and want to inspect the rest of the property, a stamped and stained concrete driveway or entry will certainly help your property to stand out.

The stamping refers to the finish application where a selected texture is imprinted into the concrete during the final phases of the concrete finishing process. With a host of texture options, stamped concrete can add the effects of natural stone, patterns and unique details to any concrete project.

Additional features include:


Integral Color: Color added to the concrete while it is still in the mixing phase (in the truck).

Borders: Combining multiple textures (i.e. Broom/smooth edges with a particular stamp in the field, giving the effect of framing the stamped detail)

Vertical Stamping: Whether applying the same texture to the risers on concrete steps or stamping vertical walls

Accent Coloring: Colors applied during stamping or after concrete has cured in order to highlight texture details

Staining: Whether bringing life to old concrete or adding color/detail to a fresh pour

Sealing: With a variety of sheens, the sealer you select will determine whether your final finish is high gloss (wet look) or muted

As with most construction processes, different contractors may approach the same process differently. Not all variations are wrong but you will want to find out how experienced your contractor is with the stamping process. Find out what textures your contractor has available and ask to see some recent projects. While most contractors will have pictures and samples of textures and colors, seeing an actual finished product will really help you determine if stamped concrete is right for you.

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