F.A.Q.
Overlay Mixing Formulas
A:
Bond Coat: (to be used for either overlay methods - apply first as a skim coating.) Coverage: Approx 300 sf
1 Gallon Polymer
1 Gallon Water
1 Sprayable Bag Mix (50#)
Stampable Bag Mix: Coverage: 22-24sf @ 1/4" depth per bag / 18-19sf @ 3/8" depth per bag.
1/2 Gallon Polymer
1 Gallon Water
1 Stampable Bag Mix (50#)
Sprayable Bag Mix: Coverage: 80-100sf per bag.
1 Gallon Polymer
1 Gallon Water
1 Sprayable Bag Mix
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Use Smoother (Magic Trowell) to smooth out bond coat.
Use gauge rake to set the depth of stampable pattern.
Use liquid release if stamping.
Use hopper gun when using sprayable for trowel or
Use hopper gun when using sprayable for knockdown texture.
How is color applied?
A: The two most common methods are: Integral color which is placed into the concrete truck, tinting the entire load of cement. Our integral colors are measured in one bag per one square yard of concrete. They are packaged and weighed to do one yard of concrete. Color Hardeners are broadcast over the freshly poured concrete at the ratio of 60 lbs. per 100 square feet. When done, you have a harder colored surface which can reach up to 7000 PSI.
How many stamps does it take to do a project?
A: We recommend a full row across the project and 3 to start a line back with at least 2 flex stamps.
How much concrete can be stamped at one time?
A: Crew size, experience, and weather conditions all play a part in this equation. For 400-600 square feet, a 3-4 man crew should be used.
How much water should be added to a load of concrete?
A: Adding 1 gallon of water to a cubic yard of concrete will increase the SLUMP about 1 inch. Decrease COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH about 200 to 300 PSI. Increase SHRINKAGE potential about 10%. Waste AS MUCH AS 1/4 bag of cement and proportionally affects DURABILITY.
How should I pour and place the concrete?
A: Concrete must have proper strength to carry loads imposed and endure conditions to which it will be exposed. Knowledge of the mix designs as well as ACI accreditation highly recommended.
Is sealer permanent?
A: No. Concrete will need to be resealed. Weather and use will determine when it should be done agin.
What about sealing?
A: We recommend that all concrete be sealed. We also recommend a 7-10 day waiting period to be sure the slab has achieved the necessary hydration.
What are the advantages of sealing?
A: Sealing will provide increased protection from the freeze-thaw cycles, de-icing salts. It will also provide a film which will reduce exposer to water, oil, and grease. Aggregate popouts and scaling are reduced.
What do I put on the stamps to keep them from sticking to the concrete?
A: You can use either powdered release agents, which come in 16 colors, or the other option is to use a clear liquid release.
What is a flex stamp?
A: A flex stamp bends enabling the person to work in a close area along walls or on the side of the job.
What is stamped concrete?
A: Stamped concrete is a method used when concrete is still in a plastic state. Tools are employed to imprint a pattern into the surface to make an impression.
What kind of preparations should be made to the existing surface?
A: The subsurface should be well drained, firm and compacted with a crushed stone base. This will ensure an even pour.
What type of reinforcement should be used?
A: Use what is designed for in your project. We recommend rebar in place of wire, chaired up with concrete chairs into the pour and fibermesh as a secondary reinforcement only.
Whose stamping tools do you recommend?
A: There are several good ones. In a way, stamping tools are like a car - not everyone prefers to drive the same car. Our preferred tools are made by Precision Stamped Concrete Tools. They carry a lifetime warranty and come in 150 patterns at affordable pricing.
Will stamped concrete crack?
A: Yes, as will all concrete. However, by using proper placement and reinforcement, the cracks will be very minute if at all. Joints will need to be placed as they would with any concrete slab.