FAQ's (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is Stamped Concrete you ask?
It is when you imprint patterns in freshly placed concrete. Stamped concrete is commonly referred to as stampcrete, patterned or imprinted concrete. It is designed to resemble brick, slate, rock, flagstone, stone, tile and even wood.
How much does stamped concrete cost?
Prices vary between contractors. Color, pattern, borders, access to your yard, straight out of the truck or wheel barrow, all these things usually play a role in price.
Call me for a price today.
What is the difference between a seamless pattern and a normal stamped concrete pattern?
A seamless pattern has no grout lines, shapes or grooves. It consists of one continuous texture. Where as the other patterns have the grout lines and shapes.
Is stamped concrete slippery?
Yes it can be, if wet or lightly snow covered. Traction can range depending on the pattern. I don't recommend a very smooth seamless Stamp Pattern for a real high foot traffic outdoor area. If slips and falls are a concern, choose a pattern with grout lines, these have more traction than a seamless (non grout line) pattern.
If slips are still a concern to you, then I recommend applying anti-slip additive directly to the sealer. There is a extra fee for this product.
This anti-slip additive does not alter the finished look and is highly effective in helping to eliminate slipperiness. This product was designed for around pools where slips and falls are a common problem.
Can I use salt on Stamped Concrete in the winter to remove snow and ice build up?
Using salt, is not a good idea on any concrete surface. I recommend sand. Remove snow with a plastic edged shovel and don't use a ice scraper or pick to chip away ice and built up snow. Snowblowers with wheel chains are also a no-no.
What makes Stamped Concrete better than Interlocking Pavers?
First , Saskatchewan has a harsh climate, consisting of freeze and thaw cycles. Interlocking Pavers have the flaw of settling in only a few years time, resulting in an unsightly wavy, up and down appearance.
Second, which is the most common complaint by homeowners, is the fact that grass and weeds grow up between the paving stones, and the number of ant hills are horrendous! Resulting in hours of maintenance and headaches each year. Stamped Concrete does not come with these issues, you get a long lasting, nice looking product that will last for years.
Does Stamped Concrete Crack?
100 % guaranteed! Concrete, by nature, will crack. However, measures can be taken to prevent cracking.
First, a solid, well compacted base is the best foundation for a long lasting product.
Second, adding rebar in the concrete for reinforcement.
Third, control joints are placed into the concrete. These joints can be cut in with a concrete saw, or placed in by hand with a groover while the concrete is still wet. Control joints are placed in predetermined areas of the concrete, especially where concrete is prone to crack. By cutting joints, this creates weak points, to help control wear the concrete will crack.