Contents
- 1 Can you add color to stamped concrete?
- 2 Can you stain over stamped concrete?
- 3 What is the best way to color concrete?
- 4 Can you power wash stamped concrete?
- 5 How long will stamped concrete last?
- 6 What happens if you don’t seal stamped concrete?
- 7 Why does stamped concrete turn white?
- 8 Does colored stamped concrete fade?
- 9 How do you color concrete cheaply?
- 10 What is better concrete dye or stain?
- 11 Why is stamped concrete so expensive?
- 12 How often should you reseal stamped concrete?
- 13 How do you keep stamped concrete shiny?
Can you add color to stamped concrete?
Answer: You can change the color of stamped work once it has been placed by applying different types of stains, tints, or dyes.
Can you stain over stamped concrete?
You can stain new stamped concrete before it has been sealed, with no problem. The process of staining stamped concrete is the same as any other concrete: clean and prep your stamped concrete, apply the stain, neutralize the stain, and apply concrete sealer and concrete floor wax once the acid stain has dried.
What is the best way to color concrete?
6 ways to color concrete
- Integral coloring. Colorant added to concrete during mixing produces uniform color throughout the slab.
- Shake-on colors. Shake-on color consists of finely-ground pigments and dry cement that is “broadcast” onto freshly placed concrete.
- Acid Stains.
- Acetone dyes.
- Water-based dyes.
- Color hardener/densifiers.
Can you power wash stamped concrete?
Never use a pressure washer to clean your stamped concrete. Over time the high pressure breaks down the sealer and reduces the protection, the shine and expected life of the sealer. Always use a gentle cleaner when washing stamped concrete.
How long will stamped concrete last?
Provided it’s installed correctly and adequately maintained, stamped concrete will last just as long as non-stamped, or standard, concrete—about 25 years. That’s because the processes of installing stamped concrete and standard concrete are mostly the same.
What happens if you don’t seal stamped concrete?
An unsealed, decorative stained concrete surface will show faded colors in a matter of a few months. You could advise your customer that’s what happens with an unsealed project and let them make the decision about sealing, but rest assured that an “I told you so,” from you when the fading happens will not comfort them.
Why does stamped concrete turn white?
A white or cloudy color is caused by moisture that is trapped inside the sealer. However, if it’s too hot and too humid, then also it’s possible the sealer surface could dry faster than the moisture can escape. The sealer was applied too thick. It’s important to apply concrete sealers in thin and even coats.
Does colored stamped concrete fade?
Stamped concrete does require some routine maintenance in the form of clearing debris, removing stains, etc. You can expect to reseal every 2 to 3 years to keep your concrete in its best condition. Any longer and the color of your stamped concrete can start to fade.
How do you color concrete cheaply?
For a really inexpensive way to add unexpected interest and color to concrete, press objects such as marbles, bits of colorful tile, colored fibers, tumbled beach glass, coins or bottle tops into wet concrete just as it is being poured.
What is better concrete dye or stain?
Dyes contain very fine color pigments, much smaller than stains. They are solutions, similar to ink, and can easily penetrate into tight concrete. Most are water-based but there also are solvent-based dyes, usually with acetone or alcohol.
Why is stamped concrete so expensive?
You begin by having the client or designer pick out three things; the stamp design, the color of the concrete, and the color of the release which gives the highlights. It can also be cost prohibitive for the contractor to purchase a set of stamps as they can run upwards of $4,000 for a complete set.
How often should you reseal stamped concrete?
Stamped concrete should be resealed every 2 to 3 years, depending on your weather conditions.
How do you keep stamped concrete shiny?
Once you clean a stamped concrete surface, it is important to keep it free from dirt, leaves, and other debris that might scratch the surface. Use a broom, leaf blower, or garden hose to remove debris weekly. Reseal the surface every 2-3 years. A sealer will protect the color and sheen of your stamped concrete surface.