Stamped Concrete versus Other Paving Materials

Decorative stamped concrete offers a number of advantages that other paving materials can't match, particularly when it comes to design versatility. Here, we compare stamped concrete with some of the alternatives.

By Anne Balogh, The Concrete Network

	Natural Stone	Precast Pavers	Stamped Concrete
Available in an array of patterns and colors With countless color combinations and hundreds of patterns available, stamped concrete offers unlimited design possibilities (see Pattern and Color Options).	No	Yes	Unlimited
Longevity and performance Like conventional concrete, stamped concrete will provide decades of service when properly installed and maintained, even when exposed to harsh winter weather. Adding steel reinforcement or wire mesh will augment the strength and help to control cracking.	Good	Good	Excellent
Speed of installation Unlike stone or precast pavers, stamped concrete can be poured or pumped into place without the need to lift and place individual units. It takes about five days to install a 2,000-square-foot stamped concrete driveway vs. 10 to 12 days to install natural stone or pavers.*	Slow	Slow	Moderate
Ability to customize Some manufacturers produce custom stamps that allow you to imprint logos or other one-of-a-kind designs.	No	No	Yes
Special maintenance requirements All of these paving materials, including concrete, will require removal of dirt or stains when necessary by scrubbing or pressure washing (see How to Protect and Maintain Stamped Concrete.)	Removal of weeds and moss that grow in the joints; refilling joints with sand as needed.	Removal of weeds and moss that grow in the joints; refilling joints with sand as needed.	Resealing every few years or as needed to protect the surface from stains and maintain color vibrancy.
Average cost per square foot installed* Depends on the complexity of the job. More elaborate stamped concrete installations will cost more (see Stamped Concrete Cost).	$25 and up	$4 - $20	$6 - $20