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STAMPED CONCRETE
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Q. Why is stamped concrete better than decks and pavers?
A. Cost maintenance and number of design choices are the three main reasons.
Decks need a lot of care and commonly at a higher cost. In most cases stamped concrete needs little maintenance and are rather unique especially when given the unlimited potential of design choices and colors available. It is interesting to note that most of the stamped concrete we install utilizes slate, random stone and other higher end materials. Since all of our patterns are the same price, you can simulate much higher priced materials for the same price as a brick, so why would you settle for "just aa brick"? If the answer is "you wouldn't", then why would pavers be something you would even consider?
Pavers also require much maintenance and offer a higher cost. In our climate pavers have a habit of rising and falling in the frost cycle. This rising and falling leaves a patio or walkway with humps and bumps that need to be reset. Another paver problem is that they often start to grow grass and weeds between the blocks. Lastly you may see fading to the blocks of your paver patio. You won't find any of these three problems with your stamped concrete project.
Cost comparison:
Pavers Costs = $10.00 --$17.00 a sq ft.
Compared to Stamped Concrete = $8.oo----$13.00 a sq ft.
Q. How much maintenance does my stamped patio need?
A. Your stamped concrete can be cleaned with mild dish soap and a hose or just sweep off. It is recommended in the Canadian climate that you seal your stamped concrete every year or two to help control damage from salt and corrosion.
Q. Will it crack?
A. Concrete does crack. Following strict guidelines does reduce or eliminate the chance of this happening. That is why a proper base is placed under your concrete, followed by wire or fibremesh reinforcement, control joints and proper placement techniques.
Q. Will it be slippery?
A. Caution should always be used on a wet or icy outside surface. Care and the use of an anti-slip sealer in most applications will greatly reduce how slippery the concrete is when it is wet.
Q. How will winter affect my stamped concrete?
A. Winter should be no problem for your properly placed stamped concrete. You do not want to use salt, which will damage any concrete surface, kitty litter or sand are good alternatives.
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