Stamped Concrete Floors

Are you looking for a floor that will last the test of time, that looks great, and that is cost effective? Concrete is the ideal choice but plain concrete can look a little drab.  Jazz up concrete and produce some spectacular effects by using stamped concrete. Here’s what you need to know.

What are Stamped Concrete Floors?

Stamped concrete floors are simply concrete floors that have had a pattern of some sort stamped into them. The process starts by pouring the concrete and adding colour (either within the concrete mix itself or by dusting the colour over the surface).  A release agent is then applied so that the “stampers” can come off without damaging the new stamped surface.  The mats, moulds or “stamps” are then laid and left for 24 hours while the concrete dries. The stamps are then removed and the release agent is pressure washed off. To protect the new stamped concrete floor, a sealant is applied to the dry concrete.  Anti slip sealers can be used for additional safety.

Advantages to Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is great, especially for outdoor areas, as it has a number of advantages.  Firstly, stamped concrete is a solid surface with no cracks or joints unlike bricks, pavers, or cobblestones.  The floor only looks like it has joins and this means that weeds cannot grow up through the joins.
Another advantage of stamped concrete is that it is a very strong material (especially with the steel reinforcing inside) so it is suitable for all areas – patios, pathways, and also driveways.  It is also a very versatile flooring as you can achieve a huge range of different looks in different colours. For example, you can replicate natural stone paving, cobblestones, wooden planks, bricks, and so on in the colour of your choice.
Stamped concrete flooring does need to be done by a professional as specialised tools are needed to get the best effect but the good news is that it is cheaper than many other equivalent floors (e.g real sandstone pavers).