Pattern and Color Options

The techniques, tools and materials for installing stamped concrete have come a long way over the past few years. Stamping tools used to be made of rigid metal and produced cookie-cutter-like impressions devoid of surface detail. Today's stamps are made of polyurethane or rubber and molded from the real materials they mimic, resulting in stunningly authentic textural effects. They range from semi-rigid mats that flex slightly to conform to contours in the concrete to ultra-pliable texturing skins with feathered edges that overlap to produce seamless texture without pattern lines. (For photos and detailed descriptions of these tools, read our Shop Smart Guide to Buying Stamps and Skins.)

Santarelli Stamped Concrete in Wilkes Barre, PA

But the main reason for the growing appeal of stamped concrete is the ever-expanding array of patterns to choose from. (See some of the most popular stamped concrete patterns.) Some stamp suppliers carry hundreds of standard patterns, offering even the more common brick, stone or slate designs in many different variations and dimensions. For a departure from the conventional or to create a themed look, you'll also find an array of specialty stamps in intriguing categories such as plant life, sea and marine life, animal footprints and even fossils. (See Take a Walk on the Wild Side.) Stamps can also be custom made to reproduce logos and other unique graphics.

Adding to the realism of stamped concrete is a broad range of integral and surface-applied coloring options that permit contractors to bring the stamp patterns to life and precisely replicate the beauty of the materials they mimic.

Deco-Systems of MD Inc. in Rockville, MD

Two of the most popular methods for coloring newly placed concrete are integral coloring admixtures and dry-shake color hardeners. Both infuse concrete with rich, long-lasting, fade-resistant color, and in the case of color hardeners, even improve surface hardness and durability. Stamped concrete contractors often use one or both of these coloring mediums to produce a backdrop for contrasting accent or antiquing colors, such as pigmented powdered or liquid release agents, possibly supplemented by chemical stains or tints. This layering of color is what enables contractors to produce such natural tonal replications.

Colors schemes for stamped concrete are often selected to blend with other architectural elements of the home or the natural surroundings. Subtle earth-tone shades are popular for outdoor pavements, but concrete can also be the canvas for bolder, more vivid color schemes. Dyes and newer acrylic-based stains are available in vibrant tones such as red, yellow, orange and cobalt blue. More decorative contractors are using these products to rev up their color palettes.

Find a Stamped Concrete Contractor

Return to Stamped Concrete

Find a Concrete Contractor 24 Services in 221 Metros -- U.S. and Canada