Different types of concrete can offer different features for your property and among them, stamped concrete provides a more convenient option design-wise. The installation of stamped concrete can be a process like any other but there are different options that can be provided with this concrete style. Aside from this, you’ll find that stamped concrete is one of the more versatile and cost-effective materials that you can choose from. Like anything you decide to install on your property though, there are some points to keep in mind.
What to Know With Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete in general is made by mixing concrete, pouring it, and stamping a pattern on it. Featuring a variety of style options to choose from, some of the more popular options you can select include antique, cobblestone, wood, red brick, sandstone, and ashlar slate. Whatever you decide on for your stamped concrete, there are different points that can help with its installation and maintenance
The Dos
When it comes to the installation of stamped concrete, you will want to be sure to have extended joints added in order to prevent or control cracking. A recommendation for the joints would be to cut to a depth of at least one-quarter the slab thickness for full effectiveness. If you plan to overlay the stamped material onto old concrete, checking the conditions of both the old slabs and landscape can help prevent future issues. Aside from this, it is advised to have the surface sealed to add an extra layer of protection against anything seeping in.
Maintenance wise, there isn’t much needed for stamped concrete but there are different methods to ensure that it lasts as long as possible and can help prevent certain damages or issues from growing. It is advised to have the concrete resealed every two years and to avoid having pets relieve themselves on the surface to prevent damage build-up. Cleaning wise, you will want to go for a gentle cleaning product and a simple water wash to keep grime away.
The Don’ts
There are different things that you will want to avoid when it comes to stamped concrete, especially during its installation process. If you end up overlooking proper subgrade preparation and reinforcement, it can lead to plenty of problems for the material including cracking and soil erosion that could have been prevented. It’s also important to ensure that quality materials are used for your project lest you end up with a less than ideal finish.
Though there are different ways that one can maintain a material, with stamped concrete, there are different methods and other points to avoid. These include the use of a pressure washer and de-icing salts to melt snow. Also, you will not want to water plants with fertilizers especially if they are near a stamped concrete patio or driveway as this could break down the seal. Other than this, avoiding the use of a shovel to remove snow and dragging equipment can help prevent seal damage.
What Does it Involve
Like any other concrete pouring process, installing stamped concrete involves site preparation, pouring of the concrete, and applying agents and a hardener. The main difference with a stamped concrete process is that it involves stamping a pattern onto the concrete and adding colour along with other features before it is cured and sealed. By having an idea on the general process behind stamped concrete, you can also have a lookout for any quality services to meet any tiling needs.
Why Choose Mackay Concreters
A number of different professional service groups can be chosen to help with any concreting needs, but by choosing Mackay Concreters, you can be assured of a low-stress construction and open consultation for any inquiries or project needs. With versatile and cost-effective materials, you’ll find a convenient assistance with Mackay Concreters for anything involving your stamped concrete.
Conclusion
Stamped concrete is one of the more creative types of concrete that you can choose for your property. Whether it be for a flooring or a structure, there are different things you will want to keep in mind when dealing with this material. This includes making sure that the proper features are added upon installation and avoid any possible detrimental cleaning processes. Simply put, knowing any do’s and don’ts of a material can help prevent any long term issues.
