The Pros and Cons of Stamped Concrete

What to Know When Considering Stamped Concrete

The versatility of concrete is no secret. Concrete offers an alternative to asphalt, bricking, or stone that takes less time and less maintenance. Stamped concrete adds the additional element of design with a professional finish. 

Choosing to go with stamped concrete can drastically improve the area where the installation is planned. However, stamped concrete isn’t always for everyone. Consider both the pros and cons of stamped concrete before starting your following proposal. 

Considering the Pros

Stamped concrete can be catered to any style, is cost-efficient, and, if properly maintained, will last for a very long time without losing its integrity. 

Easy Maintenance 

Stamped concrete requires very little maintenance, but it must be routine. Every season, it is essential to check for any cracks, fill, and reseal to maintain the concrete. A complete reseal is necessary every few years to preserve the entire area in solidarity from edge to edge. 

Full Customization 

One of the more prominent pros of stamped concrete is customization. Stamped concrete can look like anything. It can be any color and any design. Stamped concrete has a significant number of stamped pattern choices; from the look of bricking to sun rays to herringbone, etc., stamped concrete can do it all. 

Lower Prices

Installation of stamped concrete is less expensive than other alternatives. If properly maintained, the upkeep and overall price are lower too. Less maintenance but more frequent can save money and ultimately time in the long run. Homeowners can save money by looking after the concrete appropriately as not to incur repairs or replacement costs.

Protective Weatherization 

Using mix-ins help cater to the needs and location. During installation, professionals can pour in various mixing materials to help harden, weatherize, and act as non-slipping agents. Mix-ins also prolong the life of stamped concrete by protecting it from the elements. 

Eco-friendly 

If and when the stamped concrete does have to be replaced, concrete can be broken down and recycled. Some concrete materials are already recycled and are available for specific projects. Speak with the professionals working with you on your stamped concrete project to learn more about recycled material options used in the installation. 

Thinking About the Cons

Interestingly enough, many of the pros of stamped concrete can also be flipped into cons. This is no mistake. If not properly maintained or if improperly installed, stamped concrete can be quite troublesome for homeowners. 

Required Maintenance 

Stamped concrete must be regularly maintained. The maintenance is light, but it must occur often. If it does not, the installation will suffer the effects of inattention which can be costly.

Limited Traffic 

Be sure to communicate the amount of traffic the stamped concrete installation will incur, foot or otherwise. Some foot traffic with the proper upkeep of the concrete will be okay, but stamped concrete is not ideal for high-pressure traffic from vehicles. 

Moisture Sensitive 

If you live in rainy or moist climates with, perhaps, salty spray from the sea misting your space at all times, you may want to reconsider stamped concrete as your go-to. Concrete falls victim to water every time. Water can slip in the tiniest pinholes and create larger, more visible cracks that ruin a design. Saltwater can exacerbate this process. 

Resale Concern

One of the significant pros of stamped concrete is the customization factor. Making the design your style and design preference means that you can customize the installation to a tee. However, this may be problematic for future potential homebuyers who may see the installation as anything but “them.” Selecting a neutral design may help mitigate this problem.

The pros outweigh the cons of stamped concrete, but, ultimately, the final decision should be based on purpose, location, and the homeowner’s ability to either follow a maintenance plan or hire someone who can. Contact the professionals at RTS Construction to get started on your stamped concrete installation.