By imprinting patterns in freshly placed concrete, you can achieve the high-end look of stone or brick pavement-and often at a lower cost.

Stamped concrete, often called textured or imprinted concrete, replicates stones, such as slate and flagstone, tile, brick and even wood. The wide variety of pattern and colour choices make it popular for beautifying patios, pool decks, driveways and more. Additionally, it’s an affordable paving option that requires less maintenance than other materials.

Because of its superior durability and weather resistance, coloured and stamped concrete is the perfect choice to bring the high-end look of stone, brick, or wood to patios, pool decks, driveways, walkways and courtyards.

Pros:

• Is more affordable than natural stone, brick or pavers
• Enhances outdoor spaces and adds to your home value
• Offers nearly limitless pattern and color choices
• Slip resistant when treated with a non-skid additive
• Is durable and long-lasting
• Easy to maintain when sealed

HOW DOES IT COMPARE TO STONE OR OTHER MATERIALS?

When compared to similar options, stamped concrete excels in many categories:

• Customization: No other surface offers the numerous pattern and color choices and complete customization that is possible with stamped concrete.
• Maintenance: With minimal maintenance, stamped concrete can last for decades, while other surfaces such as precast pavers or natural stone need ongoing maintenance to keep weeds from growing between them and to keep the joints filled with sand.
• Installation: Stamped concrete installation is faster than setting natural stone or precast pavers.
• Price: Pouring stamped concrete will usually cost considerably less than installing natural stone surfaces; and although some lower-end paver options may initially have a lower price than stamped concrete, they may end up costing more in the long run for maintenance, repair or replacement.