Our Stamped Concrete
Video covers ACI testing, color hardeners, and integral
color applications, different tool patterns, and sealing.
What is stamped concrete?
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.
How many stamps does it take to do a
project?
We recommend a full row across the project and 3
to start a line back with at least 2 flex stamps.
What is a flex stamp?
A flex stamp bends enabling the person to work in
a close area along walls or on the side of the job.
How is color applied?
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.
What do I put on the stamps to keep
them from sticking to the concrete?
You can use either powdered release agents, which
come in 16 colors, or the other option is to use a clear liquid
release.
How much water should be added to a
load of concrete?
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 much concrete can be stamped at one
time?
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 should I pour and place the
concrete?
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.
What type of reinforcement should be
used?
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.
What kind of preparations should be
made to the existing surface?
The subsurface should be well drained, firm and
compacted with a crushed stone base. This will ensure an even
pour.
Whose stamping tools do you recommend?
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?
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.
What about sealing?
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?
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.
Is sealer permanent?
No. Concrete will need to be resealed. Weather
and use will determine when it should be done agin.
