Stamped Concrete Riverside

If you're looking for a driveway or patio material, you've got a lot of options. There's asphalt, pavers, concrete, etc. What makes stamped concrete stand above the rest?

• Strength - Bricks and pavers are great, but they form a surface that is completely made up of interlocking pieces. Therefore, they are vulnerable to any changes in the surface of the ground because they'll conform to it. Stamped concrete should be paved on a level and flat surface, and it is stronger. You also have the option of using rods to reinforce that strength, which is not possible with some other materials.
• Continuous surface - With bricks, pavers, cobbles,  and even asphalt sometimes, weeds can grow through cracks and they are such an eyesore! Since stamped concrete is a continuous surface, those little buggers can't get through. 

Stamped concrete surfaces will last for decades if properly installed and maintained. It's very similar to conventional concrete in this way. In fact, stamped concrete that has been reinforced by a color hardener can possibly last even longer than standard concrete. But it's best to have a sealer applied afterwards to protect it from the harsh California sun.

If you decide to use a color with your concrete, it is possible for it to fade over time due to weather and traffic (including foot traffic.) But if its properly cleaned and resealed, you'll prolong the lifespan of the color. If you have colored, stamped concrete that has faded and you're curious about whether or not it can be restored, give us a call!

If oten is! The textured surface helps to make it more slip-resistant than conventional concrete. However, if it gets wet, it can become slippery. If you are installing your stamped concrete in an entryway or pool deck area, there are things that can be done to increase the slip-resistance and give you peace of mind. Bring this up with us if you're concerned.

Probably the biggest negative about stamped concrete is the fact that we can never recommend that anyone attempt a DIY stamped concrete project. When you're attempting to install it, you need a plan, and you need whatever possible help you can get to make sure that you stick to it, because you only get one shot at getting it right. Between the sub-base prep, the concreet mix itself, determining the proper time to begin stamping and actually performing the stamping correctly and consistently....there is a lot that can go wrong. We can say without a shadow of a doubt that concrete stamping is a project that's best left to the professionals. But don't worry, we've got you!