Stamped & Decorative Concrete

You love the look of natural stone or brick pavers, but the cost makes you hesitate. Decorative concrete gives you that same upscale appearance for significantly less money. We can create patterns that look remarkably like slate, flagstone, cobblestone, wood planks, or custom designs. Most people cannot tell the difference between well-done stamped concrete and the real materials it imitates.

Beyond the cost savings, decorative concrete offers practical advantages. Unlike individual pavers that can shift or sink over time, stamped concrete stays level and stable. You will not have weeds growing between stones or pavers settling unevenly. The surface stays smooth and easy to maintain while still looking beautiful year after year.

Here is what makes decorative concrete such a smart choice:

• Costs 30 to 50 percent less than natural stone or pavers
• Stays level and stable without shifting or settling
• Resists weeds, unlike paver installations
• Offers unlimited pattern and color options
• Requires less maintenance than natural materials
• Adds significant curb appeal and property value

Stamped Patterns

Stamped concrete uses specialized mats that press patterns into freshly poured concrete. We offer dozens of stamp patterns ranging from natural stone looks to geometric designs. Popular choices include ashlar slate, which mimics cut stone with irregular edges, random stone patterns that look like natural fieldstone, and cobblestone designs that create an old-world European appearance. We also have wood plank stamps for a rustic look and custom patterns for unique designs.

The stamping process requires skill and timing. We pour the concrete, allow it to set to the right consistency, apply color hardener if desired, and then press the stamp mats into the surface. The stamps create texture and definition that looks three-dimensional. When done correctly, the finished product looks authentic from any distance. You can use stamped concrete for driveways, patios, walkways, pool decks, and any other concrete surface.

Color Options

We can color your concrete in virtually any shade you want. Integral color mixes into the concrete throughout, creating consistent color that will not wear off. Color hardener applies to the surface and provides richer, more varied tones. We often combine multiple colors to create realistic stone appearances with natural variation. Earth tones like tans, browns, and grays remain the most popular, but we can create any color palette that suits your design vision.

Exposed Aggregate

Exposed aggregate reveals the natural stone within the concrete mix, creating a textured surface with visual interest. We wash away the top layer of concrete before it fully hardens, exposing the aggregate stones underneath. This technique creates a slip-resistant surface that looks sophisticated and hides minor imperfections well. You can choose from different aggregate types and sizes to customize the appearance.

Stained and Polished Concrete

For interior applications or modern exterior designs, we offer acid staining and polishing. Acid stains react with the concrete to create unique, variegated colors that cannot be replicated. Polished concrete provides a smooth, glossy surface that works beautifully in contemporary settings. These finishes work especially well for garage floors, interior floors, and commercial spaces where you want a clean, modern aesthetic.

Decorative concrete requires more skill and time than basic concrete work. We start with the same careful site preparation and base installation that all quality concrete needs. Then we pour the concrete and begin the decorative process while the material is still workable. Timing is critical because we have a limited window to apply colors and press stamps before the concrete hardens too much.

For stamped concrete, we apply color hardener to the surface, then carefully position and press the stamp mats. We work systematically across the entire surface, making sure patterns align correctly and textures match. This process cannot be rushed. Each stamp mat must stay in place long enough to create clear impressions, and we need to blend the edges where mats meet so you cannot see the seams.

After stamping, we apply release agents that prevent the stamps from sticking and add subtle color variations. Once the concrete cures, we clean the surface thoroughly and apply a sealer that protects the decorative finish and enhances the colors. The sealer also makes the surface easier to clean and more resistant to stains. You will need to reapply sealer every few years to maintain the appearance and protection.

From start to finish, decorative concrete takes longer than standard concrete work. The extra time and materials increase the cost, but the results justify the investment. You get a custom look that sets your property apart and adds real value. Whether you are upgrading your home's curb appeal or creating an impressive outdoor entertaining space, decorative concrete delivers both beauty and durability.