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A faded stamped concrete sidewalk. See how it was restored.

You can make old stamped concrete look new again with recoloring. You can also change the color of stamped concrete if you are unhappy with the current shade.

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WAYS TO MAKE STAMPED CONCRETE LOOK NEW AGAIN

Stamped concrete that hasn't been properly sealed or maintained may fade. But don't worry, there are a variety of ways to make your stamped surface look better:

Sometimes fading is actually a different issue in disguise. If your stamped concrete is turning white, it is likely due to efflorescence. A professional concrete contractor can help fix the discoloration.

HOW TO CHANGE THE COLOR OF STAMPED CONCRETE

Color Correcting Stamped Concrete
Time: 08:02

Decorative concrete expert Chris Sullivan recommends the following steps for color correcting stamped concrete:

  1. Make sure the concrete is clean and dry
  2. Find out if the concrete has been sealed
  3. Decide what coloring products to use
  4. Put samples down to determine the right color
  5. Mix and apply the color with a sprayer, roller or brush
  6. Allow to dry before walking on the concrete

Related: Can You Stain Over Stained Concrete?

STAMPED CONCRETE COLOR CHANGE BEFORE AND AFTERS

Here are some examples of projects where stamped concrete was recolored and revitalized:

Before

After

Fixing color loss on stamped concrete

This stamped concrete driveway had major color loss. The A1A Concrete Designs team in Norfolk, VA made it look brand new in just two days.


Before

After

Patio restored with water-based stains

The stamped concrete around this home was plagued by oxidation and erosion. Glen Roman of Staintec gave the sidewalks and patios new life by acid washing the concrete and then applying Newlook stains. A dark brown color was used for the borders while sand was used for the main fields.


CHANGING THE COLOR OF A STAMPED CONCRETE WALKWAY

For most decorative stamping work, lighter base colors are accented by darker secondary colors. In this case, he results mimic naturally weathered stone.

Question:

How can I change the color of a stamped slab after it has been poured? The customer was not happy with gray and now wants a reddish-brown color.

Answer:

You can change the color of stamped work once it has been placed by applying different types of stains, tints, or dyes. The type of coloring method you use will depend on the look desired and amount of color change needed.

Here's a handy guide:

  • Minor color adjustment – Use an impregnating stain or diluted acid stain.
  • Medium color adjustment – Use a full-strength acid stain, dye, or tinted sealer.
  • Complete color change – Use an acrylic or solid-color stain.

Find Concrete Stains, Concrete Dyes, or Integral Color & Hardeners

When using any of these methods to adjust or recolor concrete, be sure to profile the surface according to the product manufacturer's recommendations to ensure proper penetration and adhesion.

In addition, the surface should be completely dry and the temperature above 50 F and below 90 F. Finally, no matter what method you use, always prepare a small sample for pre-approval by the client.

Shop for Related Products
Reactive Acid Stain Marble patina-like finish, 9 colors
Brickform Refresh Semi-opaque penetrating stain for recoloring and restoring concrete
Colored Outdoor Sealer Acrylic specifically formulated for UV stability

Author Chris Sullivan, ConcreteNetwork.com technical expert and vice president of sales and marketing for ChemSystems Inc.