Process and Uses for Stamped Concrete

The last step in the decorative technique of stamped concrete is the application of a varnish. This is an essential product that will not only protect the new coating from impacts and weather conditions, but will also prolong its good appearance.

Stamped concrete: what it is, advantages, moulds, colours and prices

The popularity of stamped concrete is no coincidence. Its countless advantages make this decorative coating one of the most widely used for all types of construction work. A construction material that is the result of the combination of different elements: binder, aggregates, water and some additives.

The result of its mixture gives as a result stamped concrete paving and vertical walls that stand out for their great hardness and resistance, but also for their attractiveness. A very attractive aesthetic that is given thanks to the wide range of designs offered by the stamped concrete moulds that are stamped on the surface to be renovated.

What is stamped concrete?

Stamped concrete is a decorative technique that consists of stamping moulds on the surface of fresh concrete that perfectly imitate all types of materials. The patterns, textures and colours that can be obtained are infinite.

Stamped concrete, as printed concrete is also known, is a continuous, low-relief paving with a pigmented surface capable of simulating the most varied pieces and textures: cobblestones, brick, stone, slate, tiles and even wood, among others.

A construction material that is used especially in the field of paving pavements, terraces, parks, gardens, garages, shopping centres, entrances to residential dwellings or around swimming pools. This is why it is known as stamped paving, as this decorative technique is mainly used on horizontal surfaces.

The versatility of this decorative continuous paving and its durability are some of the keys to its success. Stamped concrete can be applied on both indoor and outdoor surfaces. However, it should be noted that moulds can also be stamped on vertical surfaces. This other technique is called vertical stamped concrete.

Advantages of stamped concrete

Stamped concrete has no limits as far as shapes and colours are concerned. A personalisation in design that not all materials can boast. Thanks to its ability to imitate parquet, stone, brick or wood, among others, unique projects can be created.

In addition to these advantages of the stamped concrete floor, there is also its malleability, strength and durability. This is why it has such a wide range of applications. Garages, terraces, shopping centres, homes and many other surfaces. Stamped concrete facades, walls and floors do not require special cleaning and maintenance.

Durability and resistance:

Stamped concrete is one of the most durable floor coverings available thanks to its high resistance to traffic. This is why this material is so popular for covering roads, parks, garages or entrances to residential areas. It is also a decorative covering that withstands continuous changes in temperature and UV rays. It adapts to different weather conditions, even frost. With proper application and use, a stamped concrete floor can last for more than 20 years.

Wide variety of finishes

Stamped concrete is highly customisable. It offers a multitude of finishes, shapes and textures depending on the printed concrete moulds used. But also depending on the pigments chosen to colour the mould in question. It is possible to combine several pigments to obtain even more spectacular final results. A versatility thanks to which it is used as flooring but also as wall and façade cladding.

Quick execution

The installation of stamped concrete is quick and easy. As it is a continuous mortar, the execution times are reduced compared to other alternatives on the market. More complex geometric shapes will require more time.

Low maintenance

Preserving the optimum state of stamped concrete is not as demanding as other materials. It is sufficient to wash the surface from time to time to prevent the accumulation of dirt. And renew the varnish layer every 2 or 3 years, especially on pavements that suffer a lot of wear and tear due to vehicle traffic.

Benefits stamped concrete

Customised finishes

Stamped concrete moulds offer infinite combinations and textures.

Resistance to cold-heat cycles

Extreme temperature changes do not affect the stamped paving.

Waterproof and slip-resistant

With the use of specific moulds and varnishes, stamped concrete guarantees a waterproof and non-slip finish.

Long service life

Stamped concrete floors have a greater resistance and durability than many other materials.

Uniformity

The stamped concrete is perfectly suited to all types of terrain, even those with irregularities or varying shapes.

Prevents weed growth

Stamped concrete, by forming a slab-style paving and having no joints and gaps, prevents weed growth.

Indoor and outdoor versatility

It can be used in many ways indoors and outdoors. Both as a paving system and as wall and façade cladding.

Non-fading

Stamped concrete colours are made of inorganic pigments that are resistant to sunlight. Therefore, they will not degrade or discolour over time.

Stamped concrete specialists

Transforming spaces with Topciment’s stamped concrete is an art in itself.

With our more than 150 stamped concrete moulds you will achieve unique creations.

We offer decorative solutions with high added value.

Stamped floors and walls can imitate wood, slate, natural stone or brick. Surfaces take on another dimension.

As specialists in stamped concrete, we respond to the needs of the sector. We manufacture quality products both for building from scratch and for renovating and/or repairing existing ones.

A wide range of products for stamped concrete that includes mortars, varnishes, pigments, deactivators and cleaners, among others. We help you to make your projects a reality. Ask for advice without obligation.

Moulds for stamped concrete

Moulds are a basic element to carry out this decorative technique. Their stamping on paving and vertical cladding is what makes it possible to obtain the most varied textures and patterns.

The decorative solutions offered by our more than 150 stamped concrete moulds are unlimited. A very complete range in which some of the most outstanding shapes are: fan moulds, cobblestone moulds, tile moulds, road moulds, brick moulds, slab moulds or stone moulds.

Stamped concrete moulds are constantly being created to offer increasingly creative patterns and designs. Achieving finishes such as irregular stone, classic paving stones and even wood couldn’t be easier than with IMACEM.

Get to know them all and let your imagination run wild.

Stamped concrete colours

Stamped concrete is a continuous cladding in which all possible colours can be combined. From neutral colours such as white, black, grey or beige, to more intense and daring shades such as red, green or blue.

Inorganic pigments are used to colour stamped concrete because they are resistant to alkalis, solar radiation and weathering. These are climatic factors to which this building material is exposed. That is why it is so important to have quality colours that avoid unpleasant surprises such as discolouration over time of the paving or façade.

At Topciment we have created four different lines of stamped concrete colours. Pigments that give colour to the mortar, transforming its appearance and that can be used outdoors without any worries. Arcocem, which is the name of our family of pigment pastes, is highly resistant to the effects of sunlight and cleaning products.

With our dyes you can colour stamped concrete with full guarantees. White, grey, silver, black, brown, blue, green or red are just some of the many stamped concrete colours we can offer you. In addition, many of our products have their own colour chart.

Renovate multiple spaces with stamped concrete

Stamped concrete is an alternative to more traditional architectural materials. We are referring to wood, terrazzo and ceramics. A decorative technique that is a more economical choice to make and also to maintain over time.

A covering that makes it possible to play with reliefs and patterns and that is more suitable for outdoor areas, especially floors in public areas. There are four types of stamped concrete, depending on the method of application and the use to which it is to be put.

Outdoor stamped concrete floors: driveways, pavements, parks, terraces, gardens, patios, shopping centres, car parks, entrances to residential areas, etc.

Indoor stamped concrete floors: although they are less common, in recent years their use has increased in homes, sports centres, restaurants, hotels and commercial premises.

Stamped concrete in swimming pools: the resistance to humidity of stamped concrete, its non-slip character and a unique decorative touch make it one of the most recommended materials for covering the swimming pool environment. This is why stamped concrete in swimming pools is so popular.

Vertical stamped concrete: we can find it on facades, walls and walls of residential houses and heritage buildings such as museums, etc. The aesthetic contrast of vertical stamped concrete is spectacular. Its execution process differs slightly from the paving system.

STAMPED FLOORING

Create dream spaces with stamped paving. Opt for this decorative technique and innovate in communal areas and residential homes. Renew parks, gardens, squares, terraces, shopping centres, car parks and much more.
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VERTICAL STAMPED

Who said that stamped concrete is only for floors? Renovate vertical surfaces of private homes and businesses, facades and even historic buildings such as museums. Achieve the most unique final finishes with vertical printed concrete.
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STAMPED
CONCRETE POOLS

Few decorative solutions are as outstanding for renovating the pool deck as stamped concrete. Not only because of the wide variety of designs and textures available, but also because of the possibility of waterproof and non-slip finishes that stamped concrete for swimming pools offers.
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How to apply stamped concrete

1. Prepare the surface

2. Pour the concrete

3. Smoothing, levelling and trowelling

4. Sprinkle colour hardener

5. Trowel

6. Apply the release agent

7. Prime the printed mould

8. Remove the release agent

9. Clean the surface

10.Apply the varnish

Frequently asked questions about stamped concrete

1. Where can stamped concrete be used?

In addition to being an aesthetically pleasing building material, stamped concrete is characterised by its versatility.

Stamped concrete is mainly used on floors. Some of the most common stamped concrete floors can be found on roads, pavements, shopping centres, parks, squares, gardens, outdoor car parks, patios or entrances to residential areas.

But there are also printed concrete floors in the interiors of large halls and areas such as sports centres, commercial premises or restaurants. Not to mention stamped concrete for swimming pools, one of the most common types of stamped concrete applications.

Although not as well known, this decorative solution can also be applied on facades, walls and interior and exterior walls. This is commonly referred to as vertical printed concrete.

2. How is stamped concrete applied?

The application of stamped concrete varies depending on the surface to be coated. The application of both interior and exterior stamped paving is carried out in a certain way, while the application of vertical stamped concrete is carried out in a different way. On This page we explain the step by step of each one of them.

3. How long does stamped concrete last?

The high durability of stamped concrete makes it one of the preferred materials for covering all types of paving. If the installation has been carried out with full guarantees and the use and maintenance are correct, the durability of a stamped concrete pavement can reach more than two decades.

4. Is stamped concrete slip-resistant?

It is no coincidence that more and more people are opting for stamped concrete in swimming pools because of its anti-slip properties. It is one of the most advisable options for covering both the edge of the pool and the surrounding area to prevent falls. Provided, of course, that a varnish is used to give it this finish.

In addition, it is aesthetically more attractive as stamped paving is capable of imitating stone or wood, among other noble materials.

5. Is stamped concrete waterproof?

Waterproofing is one of the particularities of stamped concrete paving, so it can be applied in areas exposed to rain, as it does not allow water to pass through, thus avoiding filtrations and derived problems. This is one of the reasons why stamped concrete swimming pools are on the rise. However, it is very important to apply a varnish to give it this property.

6. How much does stamped concrete cost?

The price of stamped concrete depends on many factors. From the quality of the materials used or the moulds, to the colours chosen, the labour and the complexity of the work to be carried out. But also on the final textures and finishes. Thus, the price per square metre of stamped concrete varies greatly depending on these elements.

7. What is the difference between stamped concrete and polished concrete?

Resistance and durability are two characteristics shared by stamped concrete and polished concrete. Both are ideal for high-traffic surfaces due to their high strength and resistance to extreme temperature changes. Depending on the use, the surface to be covered and the particular needs of each person, it is more advisable to use one type of concrete or another. These are the main differences between stamped paving and polished paving:

1. In stamped paving, moulds are used to stamp different patterns and textures on the surface, so the surface layer of the stamped concrete contains the shapes that have been applied with these moulds. In contrast, the surface layer of polished concrete is completely smooth and continuous as no moulds are used.
2. The thickness of the polished concrete layer is slightly thicker than that of stamped concrete.
3. Polished concrete is a material in great demand for interior surfaces, especially in private homes. On the other hand, we find stamped concrete pavements both in exteriors and interiors and even vertical stamped concrete on walls, facades or walls.
4. The finishing techniques are totally different. While stamped paving has an embossed and textured finish, polished concrete offers a much smoother and untextured finish as it does not require moulds.

8. Can stamped concrete be used indoors?

Although it is not the norm, because the use of stamped concrete is more widespread on exterior surfaces, it can also be used without problems in interiors in two ways. The first one, as paving; and the second one on facades, walls or walls.

9. Can I remove stamped concrete?

If you get tired of stamped concrete over time, you can remove it without any problems. The most practical way is to use the existing surface as concrete paving and put whatever you want on top of it. For example, you can lay paving stones, stoneware, earthenware, tiles or microcement, among others.

Another way to remove the stamped concrete, although a little rougher and mainly used on large construction sites, is to destroy the surface with a hammer, compressor or perforator.

10. How long does it take to apply stamped concrete?

The duration of a stamped concrete installation depends on many factors: the square metres to be covered, the finishes to be achieved, the surface on which the stamped concrete is to be poured or the degree of inclination of the surface, as it needs to be levelled. Taking all these elements into account, the installation of a stamped concrete floor can take approximately one week.

11. How to clean stamped concrete?

12. What is the maintenance of stamped concrete?

The maintenance of stamped concrete does not require much complexity, as it is a very resistant type of coating whose durability can even exceed 20 years. In the event that over time the stamped paving has lost some colour or the cement begins to show, it is advisable to apply a resin mixed with the pigment of the floor.

Although this is the most commonly used option, as specialists we recommend applying Covercem® Stone. An aesthetic and very natural-looking renovation mortar that is ideal for renovating concrete that has lost its former colour or some of its hardness. It also offers greater strength than applying a resin alone.

13. How to repair stamped concrete?

Cracks or fissures in stamped concrete can occur for a variety of reasons. From an excessive load on the floor, an incorrectly placed steel mesh or the absence of it, to a deficient compaction of the ground before concreting, among others.

Here is a step-by-step guide to repairing a crack or fissure in stamped concrete:

1. Thoroughly clean the area of the pavement or vertical facing that needs to be repaired, with special emphasis on the inside of the crack or fissure. If necessary, vacuum up any dust that may have been stored inside the crack or fissure.
2. Generously fill the crack or fissure with a concrete repair putty. This can be flexible (acrylic or polyurethane putty) or cementitious. If necessary, open the crack wide to allow the repair product to enter.
3. The time has come to renew the surface finish of the stamped concrete. To do this, apply Covercem® Stone or Covercem® Monocrom in the colour of your choice.
4. In the case of using Covercem® Monochrom, the surface must first be stripped with our Ecoclean Stripper. Afterwards, the floor must be cleaned with pressurised water.
5. When the Covercem® is completely dry, apply Sealcem® WT or Sealcem® DSV sealers depending on the desired gloss or finish.

14. How can the colour or shine of stamped concrete be restored?

Although stamped concrete is a highly resistant decorative continuous paving, with the passage of time a loss of colour or shine can occur in its finishes due to erosion, rain, sun or misuse.

A problem that has an easy solution. Here we explain how to recover the colour or shine of stamped concrete:

1. Clean the area of the stamped concrete to be renovated thoroughly. To do this, we recommend the use of Ecoclean Pro detergent cleaner, following the instructions given above.
2. Once the floor or wall is completely dry, apply Sealcem WT T or Sealcem DSV sealers depending on the desired gloss or finish. At least two coats of the chosen sealer should be applied. In the specific case of Sealcem® WT varnish, it can be pigmented with our range of Arcocem® colourants.

15. How to varnish stamped concrete?

The last step in the decorative technique of stamped concrete is the application of a varnish. This is an essential product that will not only protect the new coating from impacts and weather conditions, but will also prolong its good appearance.

A varnish that, on some occasions, enhances the colour of the paving or vertical facing while increasing its resistance. As a general rule, this resin is applied every two or three years. The purpose is none other than to recover the shine lost over the years and to reinforce the resistance.

At Topciment we have developed a line of specific varnishes called Sealcem®. On this page we explain how to varnish stamped concrete, step by step.

16. How to remove sealer or varnish from stamped concrete?

As stamped concrete is a textured/textured surface, to remove the sealer or varnish from the surface, it is necessary to strip it. To do this, use our product Ecoclean Stripper. The steps to follow are:

1. First of all, the stamped concrete coating must be stripped in order to leave it in the best possible condition. With a roller or brush, apply our Ecoclean Stripper gel stripper until the surface is well covered.
2. When the surface is perfectly stripped, it should be completely covered with plastic for 1 hour. This period must be guaranteed to prevent the stripper from drying out and to allow it to act in depth.
3. Once the plastic has been removed, the surface shall be cleaned with pressurised water.
4. After checking that the stamped concrete is dry, it is time to seal the surface again with our Sealcem® WT or Sealcem® DSV varnishes or our Covercem® range of products.

17. How to repair stamped concrete?

Misuse of stamped concrete can lead to significant deterioration over time. In the event that it requires considerable repair, here is the protocol for action:

Clean the area to be repaired thoroughly. It is recommended to use the detergent cleaner Ecoclean Pro or Ecoclean Construction. Depending on the degree and type of dirt, use one or the other. Leave the specialised cleaner to act for 5 to 15 minutes. Then brush with a bristle brush and rinse with pressurised water.

When the surface is completely dry, it is time to repair the stamped concrete. We recommend Covercem® Stone mortar in the chosen colour. Apply two coats, allowing 4 to 8 hours drying time between coats, covering the surface well. Allow to dry between 24 and 48 hours after applying the second coat.

If a finer finish is required, Covercem® Monocrom or Covercem® Restaura mineral consolidants should be applied to repair the damaged printed concrete. Beforehand, the floor should be stripped with our Ecoclean Stripper. After cleaning the surface with water, proceed to coat the surface with two coats of Covercem®. Let dry 2 hours between coats, 24 hours after the second coat and just before applying the sealer.

Once the Covercem® Stone, Covercem® Monochrom or Covercem® Restaura is dry, apply Sealcem® WT or Sealcem® DSV sealers depending on the desired gloss or finish.

If, in addition to repairing the stamped concrete, the aim is to make the coating water-repellent, apply two coats of Covercem® Xtrem. Allow to dry for 4 to 8 hours between coats. Then polish. This mineral consolidant, ideal for polishing, will improve the protection of the surface against water and atmospheric agents.

18. How to paint stamped concrete?

In the case of a deteriorated and discoloured printed concrete covering, painting it may be the best solution to make it look as good as the first day. It is very important to assess the damage in order to find the right treatment.

If for example the stamped paving or wall has only discoloured or you want to change the colour for whatever reason, we recommend two methods for painting stamped concrete. Either use our Sealcem® DSV Colour paint or our Arcocem® pigments and pigment pastes.

If, however, in addition to the loss of colour, the surface suffers from major damage and therefore requires repair, the method would be very different. In this particular case, the Covercem® family should be used. These are mineral consolidating coatings that not only repair the damage to the stamped concrete floor or façade, but also give it colour to restore the vigour of the original stamped concrete.

Process and Uses for Stamped Concrete

Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 13 years.

Kelly Bacon is a licensed general contractor with over 40 years of experience in construction, home building and remodeling, and commercial building. He is a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.

If you are looking to add a patio, walkway, driveway, or other paved surface, you might want to consider stamped concrete. The modern varieties are almost perfect duplicates of the materials they aim to replicate. And while stamped concrete can mimic these other materials quite well, it still retains the high durability of concrete.

What Is Stamped Concrete?

Stamped concrete is concrete that has had color, pattern, and/or texture added to it to make it resemble another material, such as brick, stone, or tile. In some cases, stamped concrete is more affordable than the materials it’s designed to mimic, so people would rather use stamped concrete.

Styles of Stamped Concrete

The stamping process uses rubber stamps or texturizing mats to imprint a pattern into wet cement. There are also ways to apply it over existing concrete if your slab is in good shape. These stamps are often designed from molds of the real material to get the appropriate texture. They can make your concrete resemble brick, cobblestone, slate, wood planks, and more. You’re even able to add large medallions and other custom accents to a concrete slab.

Moreover, the stamps can be applied vertically as well as horizontally, which makes them good for much more than flooring. For instance, you can give an outdoor concrete fireplace surround a natural stone treatment. Or you can make a concrete retaining wall look like brick.

Plus, there’s no reason you can’t use stamped concrete inside your home. In fact, it can be both a practical and attractive finish. A popular option is to stamp a concrete basement floor to make it look like wood. Stamped concrete that resembles tile is also a durable option for the kitchen. But it can be cold and hard on your feet, so area rugs are recommended.

How to Create Stamped Concrete

The process of creating stamped concrete is fairly straightforward. It generally involves the following:

1. Pour the cement no less than 4 inches thick.
2. Add the primary color. The color is added either in the mixer or after the cement placement. The former method is called “integral coloring,” and the latter method is called “broadcast or surface coloring.” Broadcast coloring involves evenly spreading color across the surface of the wet cement.
3. Apply the color release agent. The color release is an accent color that gives the stamped concrete dimension, and it has a nonstick effect that allows the texturizing mats to come off without pulling up the cement.
4. Lay the texturizing mats. Because there are often not enough mats to cover the entire area, they must be applied and then moved to span the whole surface while the cement is still wet. If the pattern has continuous lines, it is important to carefully line up the mats as you reposition them.
5. Let the cement dry for 24 hours.
6. Pressure wash the release agent off.
7. Add clear sealing, and let it dry. The concrete should be dry enough to walk on in 48 hours and to drive on in a week. It takes about a month to fully cure.

Warning

DIY is not recommended for this project. The process of laying stamped concrete is an art. Plus, special tools and an experienced crew are necessary. So save yourself the frustration, and find a good concrete contractor who has experience in laying stamped concrete.

Pros and Cons of Stamped Concrete

There are many choices when it comes to flooring materials. So is stamped concrete right for your project? Its main benefit is durability and long life, and there are myriad ways to customize it. And if it’s treated with texture or another non-skid additive, it can be a safe, slip-resistant surface. Stamped concrete is also a design feature that will enhance your home value, yet it’s generally more affordable than brick or stone.

A downside to stamped concrete is you typically can’t DIY the project, as it takes a certain level of expertise. It’s also recommended to reseal concrete every two to five years to keep it looking its best. Moreover, if the concrete ever cracks, it can be difficult to repair and you might not be able to match the stamped pattern to the rest of the slab.

• Durable
• Many options for customization

• Difficult to repair
• Usually can’t DIY

Stamped Concrete vs. Other Materials

Just like stamped concrete, other popular materials, such as bricks and stones, also look great and enhance the value of your home. And because they form a surface of many interlocking pieces, they’re helpful if you’re trying to cover uneven ground. It can be difficult to pour level concrete on an uneven surface. However, you’ll often see weeds popping up in the spaces between pavers while nothing should be able to grow up through concrete.

Ultimately, it’s all in the eye of the beholder. Stamped concrete will never be mistaken for the real material it’s aiming to mimic, whether it be bricks, stone, tile, or wood. And for some people that’s a deal-breaker. But if you want a material with less maintenance and higher durability than the real thing, stamped concrete could be the option you’re looking for.