Stamped & Decorative Concrete
Get the elegant look of stone, brick, or tile for a fraction of the cost with stamped concrete.
The Beauty of Stone Without the Price Tag
You want your driveway or patio to look great, but natural stone and pavers cost a fortune. Stamped concrete gives you the same look for much less money. We can make concrete look like flagstone, slate, brick, cobblestone, wood planks, or just about any pattern you can imagine.
The process works by pressing texture mats into fresh concrete before it hardens. We add color through integral pigments or surface treatments. The result looks remarkably like the real thing, but it costs less and requires less maintenance. Our decorative concrete installations across Weymouth have proven that stamped concrete holds up to New England weather while keeping its appearance.
Why Stamped Concrete Makes Sense
Natural stone and pavers look beautiful. They also cost two to three times as much as stamped concrete. Plus, individual pavers shift over time, weeds grow between them, and you spend every spring releveling sections that have settled. Stamped concrete eliminates those problems.
- Costs 50 to 70 percent less than natural stone or quality pavers
- No weeds growing through joints
- Does not shift or settle like individual pavers
- Easier to shovel snow in winter
- Hundreds of pattern and color combinations available
- Can be resealed to refresh the appearance every few years
The durability matches regular concrete because it is regular concrete. The stamping and coloring are surface treatments that do not affect the structural properties. You get the same 20 to 30 year lifespan as a plain concrete installation.
Popular Patterns and Styles
The pattern options are nearly endless. Here are the most popular choices for driveways, patios, and walkways in the Weymouth area.
Stone and Slate Patterns
Flagstone and slate patterns work great for patios and pool decks. They have an irregular, natural look that fits with landscaping. Random stone patterns are the most popular choice for backyard applications. You can add borders in contrasting colors to frame the space.
Brick and Cobblestone Looks
Stamped brick patterns work well for walkways and small patios. The running bond or herringbone layouts look authentic. Cobblestone patterns give driveways an Old World European appearance. Both styles add character that plain concrete cannot match.
Wood Plank and Modern Designs
Wood plank stamps create the look of hardwood decking without the rot and maintenance. They work great for patios and entryways. We also offer modern geometric patterns, tile designs, and custom textures. You can even combine multiple patterns in the same project for visual interest.
How Stamped Concrete Installation Works
Stamped concrete requires more skill than regular flatwork. The timing has to be perfect. Too early and the stamps sink too deep. Too late and the concrete is too hard to accept the pattern. Our crews have done hundreds of stamped projects and know exactly when to work.
We start with the same base preparation as any concrete driveway. Proper grading and a compacted base prevent settling. Then we pour and level the concrete. Color can be mixed into the concrete itself or applied to the surface as a dry shake hardener.
Once the concrete reaches the right consistency, we press stamping mats into the surface. This creates the texture. Release agents prevent sticking and add secondary color variations for a more realistic look. After the concrete cures, we clean the surface and apply a sealer to protect the color and make it easier to maintain. Your new stamped concrete patio or driveway is ready to use.
Keeping Your Stamped Concrete Looking Great
Stamped concrete needs less maintenance than most other options, but it is not maintenance-free. Plan to reseal every 2 to 3 years. This protects against stains, moisture, and UV fading. Sealing also brings back the color depth and makes the surface easier to clean.
Regular sweeping and occasional power washing keep the surface clean. Avoid using deicing salts in winter as they can damage the sealer and surface color. Sand or calcium chloride alternatives work better. With basic care, your stamped concrete will look great for decades.