Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect with regard to pricing?
Several factors must be considered when estimating the cost of a new patio or driveway including:
- Is there an existing asphalt or concrete surface?
- What is the accessibility from the street to the area of the new pour?
- Will the concrete have to be pumped?
- Also steps, porches, and sidewalks require more form work than a driveway.
Regular broom finished concrete is the least expensive and can range between $4-$6/square foot. Surface retarders from a micro etch to a fully exposed aggregate can add an additional $0.50- $1.00/square foot.
Stamped concrete averages $9-$14 per square foot. The type of stamp - a texture skin versus a detailed pattern - and the integral color are important factors that affect pricing as well as any decorative saw cuts or borders that are incorporated in the design.
In addition, the size of the project to be undertaken influences the price. In most cases the larger the project, the lower the price per square foot.
Is there a minimum square footage?
Any decorative application should be a minimum of 300 square feet.
Is there any guarantee with respect to cracking?
There are a few things that can be done to prevent cracks in concrete. All contractors should place control joints proportionately to minimize the random cracking that occurs as the wet plastic material hardens to a dry state. Additionally, fiber can be added to the concrete at the ready mix plant for a minimal charge. Also, rebar placed in certain areas will help reinforce the concrete.
What type of maintenance is required of decorative concrete?
All decorative concrete should be sealed on average every 2-3 years depending on the amount of traffic and type of usage. (High traffic areas may require more frequent sealing while low traffic areas may last longer). Sealers that provide maximum penetration into the concrete are available at a higher cost.
In the case of interior floors, an acid stained application can be sealed with an acrylic sealer that will have to be waxed occasionally depending on traffic or a coat of epoxy and urethane can be applied that will entail only damp mopping.
Will the surface be slick when it is wet?
Some stamp patterns that have minimal indentations will be more prone to slickness than others. In that case, non-skid grit can be added to the sealer to provide an anti-slip agent. It is important to add a non-skid grit that is UV stable that will not yellow or discolor the existing surface.
Where can I see examples of stamped concrete?
At our plant at 161 North Shelby Street, we have several samples of the most common stamp patterns available in large 10ft x 10ft squares that provide a nice way of seeing what is available in one location.
How long will my project take?
Depending on the size, a project can take anywhere from 2-3 days to a week or more. It is important to factor in weather conditions when starting a project.
Can I resurface an existing patio or porch?
Yes, an overlay can be applied that will add an 1/8 to 3/8 inch of a cementitious material to the current surface. The condition of the existing patio or floor will determine the amount of prep work that it will take to ensure proper adhesion.
It is important to be aware that not all existing concrete can be resurfaced. The underlying base for an overlay must be sound. If your concrete has severe cracks, is heaving, is spalling due to damage from freeze thaw cycles or deicing salts, or resting on an unstable soil base, an overlay will not solve the problem. In that case, tearing it out and pouring a fresh slab is a better option.
Can I choose a colored concrete that matches my brick or shutters? Will the color last?
With concrete, the walkway, patio, or driveway can be customized to blend with other architectural elements to fit a given space. There are hundreds of colors to choose from but it is important to keep in mind that the eventual color will be affected by the cement content. Therefore, concrete will be a close approximation to a color chip and not an exact match.
When properly protected and cared for colored concrete will retain its beauty for decades. For most projects, manufacturers will recommend applying a clear sealer to newly colored concrete for additional protection from abrasion, chemicals and UV exposure. A sealer can also provide aesthetic benefits by adding some sheen and intensifying the color effects. For exterior surfaces or concrete subject to heavy traffic, it may be necessary to reapply a new coat of sealer every year or two to preserve the color.
