Stamped & Decorative Concrete

Beautiful Concrete That Looks Like Natural Materials

You do not have to settle for plain gray concrete anymore. Stamped and decorative concrete gives you the high-end look of expensive materials without the high-end price. At MGL Margate Concrete, we create stunning decorative concrete surfaces that transform ordinary driveways, patios, and walkways into eye-catching features of your property.

Stamped concrete uses special mats that press patterns into the concrete surface before it fully hardens. These patterns can mimic slate, flagstone, cobblestone, brick, wood planks, tile, and many other materials. Combined with color options, stamped concrete creates remarkably realistic looks that fool most people into thinking you installed the real thing.

The best part is that you get all this beauty along with the durability and low maintenance of concrete. Unlike real stone pavers that can shift and settle, or wood that rots and splinters, stamped concrete stays in place and requires minimal upkeep. You save money on installation and on long-term maintenance while enjoying a surface that looks amazing for years.

Decorative Options and Design Choices

The design possibilities with decorative concrete are nearly endless. We can create custom looks that match your home's style and your personal taste. Whether you want a rustic natural stone appearance or a sleek modern design, we have the patterns, colors, and finishes to bring your vision to life.

Here are some of the decorative concrete options we offer:

• Stamped patterns including slate, flagstone, cobblestone, brick, ashlar stone, wood plank, and tile designs
• Integral color that runs throughout the concrete in shades from earth tones to bold colors
• Surface color hardeners and dry shakes for rich, variegated appearances
• Acid stains that create unique, translucent color effects that vary naturally across the surface
• Exposed aggregate finishes that reveal decorative stones within the concrete
• Custom borders, bands, and accent areas using contrasting colors or patterns
• Antiquing and highlighting techniques that add depth and realistic character

You can combine these options to create truly unique designs. For example, a stamped concrete patio might feature a stone pattern in the main area with a contrasting border in a different color. Or your driveway might use a brick pattern with accent bands to create visual interest. We work with you to design something that fits your style and budget.

The Stamped Concrete Process

Creating beautiful stamped concrete requires skill, timing, and attention to detail. The process is more complex than standard concrete work, but the results are worth the extra effort. We have perfected our techniques over years of experience to consistently deliver stunning finished products.

We start with the same careful site preparation and base work as any quality concrete project. A stable, well-compacted base is essential for stamped concrete because any settling or movement will be obvious in the finished pattern. We also plan drainage carefully since stamped surfaces have texture that affects water flow.

Color is typically added to the concrete mix or applied to the surface using color hardeners. We carefully calculate amounts to achieve consistent color throughout your project. Once the concrete is poured and initially leveled, we apply release agents that prevent the stamping mats from sticking while also adding subtle color variations for a more natural look.

The stamping itself must be done at exactly the right time when the concrete is firm enough to hold the pattern but soft enough to take a deep impression. Our experienced crew works quickly and precisely to stamp your entire project while the concrete is at this perfect stage. After stamping, we may add antiquing stains or highlighting to enhance the realistic appearance. Finally, we apply sealers that protect the surface and bring out the color depth.

Caring for Your Decorative Concrete

Stamped and decorative concrete needs a bit more care than standard concrete, but it is still far easier to maintain than the materials it mimics. Regular sweeping and occasional washing keep your surface looking good. Avoid using deicing salts in winter as they can damage the surface, and be careful with sharp objects that might scratch the sealer.

The sealer is what protects your decorative concrete and keeps the colors vibrant. Plan to reseal your stamped concrete every 2 to 3 years, or more often in high traffic areas. Resealing is a simple process that you can do yourself or we can handle for you. Fresh sealer makes your concrete look brand new again and provides continued protection against stains, moisture, and UV fading.

If you notice minor surface damage or wear over time, most issues can be repaired without redoing the entire surface. We offer maintenance and repair services to keep your decorative concrete looking its best for many years. With proper care, stamped concrete easily lasts 20 to 25 years or more while maintaining its beautiful appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions