FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why do people choose stamped concrete?

Decorative stamped concrete is appealing for many reasons. First, it’s an economical alternative to pavers and natural stone, especially for applications such as patios, driveways, walkways, and pool decks. It also requires less maintenance than those materials because it has no joints where weed growth can occur. Adding to the value of stamped concrete is the material’s longevity. When properly installed and maintained, stamped concrete will last for decades.

How long will stamped concrete last?

Like conventional concrete, stamped concrete will last for decades when properly installed and maintained, even when exposed to harsh winter weather conditions. In some cases, stamped concrete can be even more durable than standard concrete, especially if a colour hardener has been applied to the surface. Most contractors also apply a sealer to stamped concrete to protect it from wear and abrasion and make it easier to maintain.

Is stamped concrete expensive?

Stamped concrete can be expensive, depending on the costs for materials and labor in your local market and the complexity of the job. But the old adage, “you get what you pay for,” really holds true for stamped concrete. For your initial outlay, you’ll get a pavement that lasts longer and requires less maintenance than most other paving materials, which can add up to big savings over the pavement's lifetime. You’ll also add curb appeal and aesthetic value to your home, allowing you to maximize the return on your investment.

What factors should I consider when selecting a colour and pattern?

Many people get inspiration from their surrounding landscape and home's architectural style when choosing a colour and pattern. For example, if your house has a brick exterior, consider echoing that theme in the stamped concrete, whether in a simple brick-patterned border or the entire driveway.
Another option is to choose a pattern and colour scheme that blends in well with your surrounding landscape.
View available colour options.

Can I use salt on it in the winter?

You should avoid using deicing salts on stamped concrete, especially during the first winter after the pavement is installed. Using deicers can cause surface damage—primarily scaling and spalling-by forcing the thawing and refreezing of moisture. Products containing ammonium nitrates and ammonium sulphates are especially harmful because they will actually attack the concrete chemically. Rock salt (sodium chloride) or calcium chloride will do less damage, but they can harm vegetation and corrode metal. As an alternative, use sand for traction.

Is it slippery?

Because stamped concrete is a textured surface, it is often more slip resistant than conventional concrete. However, just like natural stone, it can become slippery when wet or if a film-forming sealer has been applied. If stamped concrete will be installed in a high-traffic area, such as an entryway or pool deck, there are a number of things you can do to increase its slip resistance.

Can stamped concrete go over my existing concrete?

Existing concrete that’s in good condition can be covered with a stamped overlay, which will give you the same look as conventional stamped concrete. Stamped overlays can be used to upgrade the appearance of plain concrete driveways, patios, walkways, pool decks and even interior floors.

Will the colour fade?

Efflorescence, weathering, dirt and traffic can take their toll on the colour of stamped concrete. You can minimize any colour change by periodically cleaning and resealing the concrete. Even if the colour has faded due to years of neglect or lack of maintenance, it can often be restored to its original state by cleaning and resealing.

Does it look fake?

Stamped concrete looks very realistic because most stamping mats are molded from the actual materials they are designed to replicate. To achieve natural-looking colour variations, such as you would see in real stone, stamped concrete contractors often use integral or dry-shake colour in conjunction with surface-applied colouring mediums. If anything, stamped concrete looks better than the real thing, because you won’t get weed or moss growth in between the joints, and it won’t rot or splinter (if you are mimicking wood planking).