Concrete stamping is a decorative procedure where designs are stamped into a curing concrete slab. These designs can be simple texturing to more complex shapes that are meant to look like bricks, natural stone, or fancy tiles. 

1. Installation Speed

Concrete installation is a relatively quick process, with the main work often being completed in a day for smaller projects like patios. The ground is compacted and leveled, a gravel base is added, and then concrete forms are put in place. Once the concrete is poured and partially cured, the surface is stamped with the desired design. Within a few days, the concrete will be cured and ready to use. 

2. Cost Savings

Cobblestones, paving flags, and tile can be expensive, especially compared to concrete. If you are in love with the look of these more expensive paving and flooring options but they aren't in the budget, stamped concrete can give you the look of these materials at a fraction of the cost. The concrete can even be tinted and dyed to mimic the colors and designs on the more expensive options. 

3. Durability

Paving stones settle over time. They are also more prone to cracking, in part due to the uneven settling. Concrete, on the other hand, will remain crack-free and level for decades if it is installed correctly. The designs will also remain, as they are stamped deeply into the concrete and won't wear off over time. This leads to greater durability that ensures you won't have to replace the stamped concrete for a long time. This saves money and time over the life of the paving. 

4. Home Value

Although plain concrete is attractive and durable, stamped decorative concrete can actually increase a home's value. A concrete basement floor is utilitarian, for example, while a stamped floor that resembles expensive stone tiling but needs only a fraction of the maintenance effort is a beautiful sight that can increase the value of your home in the eyes of a buyer. 

5. Aesthetic Improvement

Even if you aren't planning to sell, the improvement in the appearance of your home can make it more pleasant. Plain concrete is boring and can be a design challenge. Attractive stamped concrete front porches that have stamped flagstone-looking paths leading to them increase the curb appeal of your home. A mosaic-stamped patio can increase your feelings of relaxation and enjoyment during summer entertaining. 

Contact a stamped concrete service for more help.