Stamped concrete is a great option for Denver homeowners who want to give their outdoor space a new look. It can be finished to resemble stone, brick, slate, flagstone, tile, wood, and other textures and patterns. Over time though, the Mile High City’s harsh weather conditions, such as snow and UV exposure, will wear the concrete surface. When that happens, it’s time for stamped concrete refurbishing to bring it back to life.
How to Refurbish Stamped Concrete
Refurbishing stamped concrete is relatively straightforward, but that doesn’t mean you should DIY! Any sort of stamped concrete restoration should be done by a trusted company to ensure quality work. Now with that disclaimer out of the way, let’s take a closer look at the stamped concrete refurbishing process.
1. Get the surface ready
Any cracks or distressed areas in the stamped concrete must be cleaned thoroughly. All dust and loose particles are removed so they don’t hinder the bond between the patches and existing concrete. Soapy water is used to clean up the loose dirt and debris, then the concrete is carefully rinsed and dried.
2. Prepare the mixture
Depending on the stamped concrete’s distress, suitable patching materials are selected. A proportionate mix of water and concrete bonding agent is mixed and applied over the distressed area. The new patch’s color will match the surrounding concrete, blending in with the rest of the concrete for a uniform finish.
3. Apply the patch
After the mixture is prepared, the patches are applied to repair any cracks and distressed areas. Small cracks can be filled by finger application, whereas large cracks are filled and smoothed with a trowel. After applying the patch, a damp sponge is used to smooth out the edges of the cracks. A surface release agent is poured over to facilitate re-stamping.
4. Re-stamp the concrete
The same pattern as the original design is pressed with a stamp stencil onto the fresh concrete. After 24 hours, the stencil is removed and the concrete is washed with soap and water, then left to dry. It’s vital that the concrete cures properly before sealing.
5. Seal the refurbished concrete
The final step! The refurbished area has a concrete sealant poured over it. This will help to prevent damage and maintain the integrity of the installation.
Key Considerations for Refurbishments
When refurbishing stamped concrete, it’s crucial that the new concrete matches the color and pattern of your existing concrete. There are many water-based metallic oxide pigments available to tint your concrete for the perfect match. Additionally, a sealant should be applied to protect your stamped concrete from oils and stains.
Working conditions are another major consideration as they affect the refurbishment process. Temperatures between 50 and 90 degrees are the sweet spot for achieving the best results. It’s also imperative that the temperature remains above freezing while the concrete cures, which is why timing your stamped concrete work in Denver is very important.
Refurbish Stamped Concrete to Look Like New
Many homeowners put off refurbishing their stamped concrete because they think it’ll be expensive and time-consuming. With the right concrete repair company, that won’t be the case! Bring your stamped concrete back to its former glory with the experienced team at Concrete Repairs Denver. Not only do we never take the one-size-fits-all approach but we’ll also suggest the most cost-effective ways to restore your stamped cement.
Ready to enhance your outdoor space? Contact us now to get a free estimate for stamped concrete refurbishing in Denver!