Stamped concrete is a type of decorative concrete that adds texture, color, and depth to a surface. It’s a great way to add character to your home or business without having to worry about repainting or replacing it.
Stamped concrete is made with a concrete base, which is then overlaid with any combination of aggregates (fine gravel), sand, and/or cement. This combination is then stamped into the concrete using various tools to create different patterns and textures.
Once the pattern has been created, the surface can be sealed with paint or stain. Stamped concrete is also available in pre-cast edging tiles that can be used as stepping stones to create patterns around your lawn or garden.
How To Create A Stamped Concrete Wall
- You’ll want to make sure you pour the cement no less than 4 inches thick. If you have to pour it on top of something, like a sidewalk or driveway, it’s important to keep in mind that the weight of the cement can cause damage to your property if not properly supported.
- Integral coloring is done before the stamped concrete wall is placed, while broadcast coloring is done after it’s been placed. Integral coloring involves adding color to the water in which you mix your cement. You have to use a special mixer for this, and it’s more expensive than broadcast coloring (which can be done with a paintbrush). If you want to use integral coloring, make sure that you know what kind of mixer you need—you’ll want one that has a very strong motor so it can grind up your pigment powder into very fine particles.
- Broadcast coloring involves evenly spreading color across the surface of the wet cement. This will ensure maximum coverage without leaving any streaks behind. When you’re ready to apply the color release agent, you’ll want to make sure that the stamping concrete is dry. If it’s not dry, you’ll end up with a lot of drag on your mats, which means more work for you and less fun for your mat! To apply the color release, just spray it on in even strokes across the surface of your stamping concrete. Let it sit for about 30 seconds, and then wipe it off with a clean cloth or paper towel.
- Lay the texturizing mats. Because there are often not enough mats to cover the entire area, they must be applied and then moved to span the whole surface while the cement is still wet. If the pattern has continuous lines, it is important to carefully line up the mats as you reposition them. If you want to make sure that your pattern looks good from all angles, it’s best to start with a single mat that covers most of the area. Then work outward from there, adding more mats and making sure they are placed correctly as you go along.
- Let the cement dry for 24 hours
- Pressure wash the release agent off.
- Add clear sealing and let it dry. The concrete should be dry enough to walk on in 48 hours, and it’ll take about a month for the concrete to fully cure.
Call A Professional For All Your Stamped Concrete Wall Needs
Stamped concrete is a cost-effective way to add value to your home or business. The process involves a skilled contractor laying out a design that is then stamped into the concrete, leaving an imprint of your choice. Stamped concrete can be used on driveways, patios, pool decks, and walkways – just to name a few.
