If you’re looking for a cozy patio or another great feature around your home with professionally installed stamped concrete, this surface option offers a long lifespan and low cost, making it an excellent alternative to plain concrete or pavers without distinctive features. Learn more about the expected lifespan and benefits of using stamped concrete for your next backyard renovation project.
Expected Lifespan
With proper installation and use, stamped concrete lasts around 25 years on average, which is the same expected lifespan as standard concrete, partly because it’s made from the same material. The main difference between stamped concrete and standard concrete is that a seal is pressed into the surface while it is slightly dry. This process is best performed by professionals to avoid uneven application.
To enjoy a comfortable patio or other outdoor surface for 25 years, ask your paving team about maintenance services. Crack repairs and sealants are preventive maintenance tasks that can help you enjoy years of additional use.
Factors That Affect Its Lifespan
Unfortunately, there are several factors that can shorten its lifespan:
- Incorrect installation
- Lack of sealant
- Heavy loads on the surface
- No maintenance services
Benefits of Stamped Concrete Sealing
A sealant is a critical part of your concrete construction. Concrete is naturally porous, meaning moisture can seep into it. While moisture alone might not cause significant problems, winter weather makes it more likely for moisture to freeze and thaw multiple times throughout the year. This freeze-thaw cycle can crack your stamped concrete surface or create deep structural problems.
Protection Against Moisture
Protect yourself from all those moisture-related issues with a layer of sealant applied by a professional. Sealed concrete doesn’t absorb water the same way an unsealed surface does, which helps promote a longer lifespan in adverse weather conditions. Some sealants require reapplication every one to three years, so ask your team about the recommended maintenance steps.
Affordable Alternative to Pavers and Bricks
Compare sealed and stamped concrete with pavers or bricks to see why it’s the right choice for your outdoor project. Pavers and bricks can easily loosen, crack, and create an uneven surface. This tripping hazard makes them a risky choice for walkways or patios. On the other hand, professionally stamped concrete looks remarkably similar to bricks or natural stones, especially when stained.
Staining Services
This process is the perfect touch to update your outdoor appeal or garden’s beauty. Discuss the look you’re aiming for with our expert team. We’ll then recommend a particular stain or dye to help you achieve a more natural look or a customized project.
Stains and dyes are applied before sealant. They penetrate the surface of your concrete to create a color that lasts throughout its lifespan. Some stains create a natural look, while others are similar to paint and can be used to brighten a pathway or patio. Ask a professional to apply a stain or dye, as it’s a permanent step that’s hard to correct if applied incorrectly.
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