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Stamped Concrete Driveway Tips

Everything You Need to Know About Stamped Concrete

There are multiple steps involved when it comes to creating a stamped concrete driveway, and only a short window of time to achieve them all. Unlike when applying a decorative coating or stain that will harden concrete, professionals will have to complete the entire stamping process before the concrete has time to cure. If you are a homeowner and are thinking about stamping your own concrete, you need to read this before you begin.

Proper Planning Is Key

To do this job successfully, contractors have to be experienced, organized, and well-prepared. For larger projects, that means having a diagram of the layout in advance, having the tools ready to go, and ensuring there is enough labor for the job.

Apply Color Hardener

Once the concrete has reached the right stage of plasticity, which is when no bleed water is left on the surface, put the color hardener onto the surface from the waist level to minimize how much of the material drifts into the air. Work from the center of the driveway and back toward the edge to avoid any buildup of color hardener. After the first layer of color hardener has been applied, give it 5-10 minutes to absorb water from the concrete and allow it to float to the surface.

Apply a Release Agent

Liquid or powdered release agents have 2 important purposes. The first is they add a subtle color contrast and act as a bond breaker to stop the stamping from sticking to the concrete and disturbing the texture. The best way to apply this is with a dry tampico brush that is approximately 8 inches in width. Dip the brush and fluff it to load the bristles and coat them evenly. Then take it by the handle, holding it just below waist level, and use your wrist to flick it onto the surface in a uniform layer.

If you would like to make an appointment to discuss a stamped concrete driveway project, please contact Pueblo Concrete LLC at (630) 282-4386 now if you live in the Yorkville, IL region.

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