
Does stamped concrete fade over time?
If an adequate exterior seal is not properly maintained, all colored stamped concrete will fade over time due to direct exposure to the elements. Faded color is the #1 issue homeowners face with stamped concrete patios, and in Deborah’s case, when the selected color turns out differently than expected.
Why does my stamped concrete patio have a faded color?
Faded color is the #1 issue homeowners face with stamped concrete patios, and in Deborah’s case, when the selected color turns out differently than expected. Most concrete found outside is stamped or textured concrete that was Integrally Colored, Acid Stained on its surface, and sealed to prevent damage.
How do you change the color of stamped concrete?
The method with which you choose to color your concrete should be based on an assessment of the concrete’s surface conditions and the degree to which you wish to change the color. First, clean stamped concrete thoroughly. Antiquing stains can be applied over existing sealer. Pour antiquing stain into a pump-up sprayer.
How much does it cost to re-color stamped concrete?
The cost for a DIY recolor and seal stamped concrete project is about $0.32 per sq. ft. The easiest product to use to change stamped concrete color is our Antiquing Stain. The stain cost about $0.15 sq. ft. and a quality outdoor acrylic concrete sealer cost about $0.17 sq. ft.

Does stamped concrete lose its color?
Over time, even the most beautiful and best done stamped concrete can lose its color and begin to look faded and unattractive. Recoloring it with concrete colors can quickly revive the look of stamped concrete. There are few ways to approach recoloring concrete based on your final outcome desired.
How long does Coloured concrete last?
If the maintenance guide is followed, it can last up to 15 years.
Will colored concrete fade?
Does concrete colored with Davis Colors fade? The color can't fade, but the concrete can. The active ingredient in every Davis product is pure inorganic pigment which is made in a process of oxidizing metal, in essence, “fading” metal into a pigment powder.
What are the disadvantages of stamped concrete?
Cons:Stamped concrete WILL CRACK, many designers call this a feature.Only rated at 3,500-5,000 psi, should not be driven on.Will absorb moisture, not resistant to freeze thaw cycles.Quality control often an issue, multiple trucks on a job can produce unwanted variation in color.Must be re-sealed every 2-3 years.More items...•
Why is my colored concrete turning white?
Why is my concrete turning white? Efflorescence is a white salty residue caused when too much moisture is moving through the concrete. As the concrete dries and its moisture rises upwards through the slab, it brings salts within the concrete to the surface as well.
How long will stamped concrete last?
about 25 yearsProvided 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.
How do I bring color back to stamped concrete?
WAYS TO MAKE STAMPED CONCRETE LOOK NEW AGAINAdd highlights with an antiquing stain.Apply a tinted sealer.Remove old sealer, restain and reseal.Apply a product specifically designed for restoration, like Brickform Refresh or Increte Renovate.
How do you keep colored concrete?
Routine Cleaning & MaintenanceKeep dirt and debris off the surface using a broom, leaf blower or garden hose.Loosen stubborn stains with a scrub brush or power washer.Try a gentle soap if water alone isn't getting your colored concrete clean.Use a specialized concrete cleaner or degreaser for tackling the toughest jobs.
Will colored concrete lighten as it cures?
Concrete will continue to lighten until it is fully cured. Allow the concrete to cure at least 30 days before inspecting it for color match or appearance.
Is stamped concrete worth the money?
Many homeowners wonder if it is worth the cost to install a stamped concrete patio or driveway. The answer is yes, because it adds curb appeal and aesthetic value to your home, allowing you to maximize the return on your investment.
Is stamped concrete high maintenance?
Like conventional concrete, stamped surfaces will provide decades of service when properly installed and maintained. Stamped concrete will require some routine cleaning and maintenance depending on exposure conditions and the type and amount of traffic it receives.
Does stamped concrete increase home value?
How much value does stamped concrete add to your home? In most markets, stamped concrete can add up 15% to a home's value!
How long does stamped concrete last?
How long will stamped concrete last? When installed and maintained correctly, stamped concrete should last up to 25 years. If the stamped concrete slabs have equal depth across the paved area and were stamped when slightly dry but malleable, 25 years is average.
How long does it take to reseal stamped concrete?
There is no standard duration, after which you must reseal stamped concrete. However, I always advise homeowners and stamped concrete contractors to check their work after two and a half years. But it does not have to be this long — or short.
What is resealing stamped concrete?
Resealing is the process of renewing stamped concrete , making it look new or more appealing. The process is useful for both cracked concrete and one that is fading or flaking off.
Does stamped concrete crack?
The durability of stamped concrete is most dependent on the weather in your area and the weight exerted on the surfaces. Stamped concrete will crack and chip faster in areas experiencing harsh climatic conditions.
Do you need to replace concrete before the end of the stamped area?
However, you may need to replace the concrete before the end of this time if the stamped area bears a lot of weight with time — for instance, a driveway.
Can you crack concrete overnight?
However, cracking does not happen overnight. You can prevent it to some extent. Preventing cracks is as easy as having it installed correctly and applying a sealer as a maintenance measure. About stamped concrete fading, you can keep hoping for it, but it may take long before you notice.
Is stamped concrete a beautifier?
First, people ought to know that the name concrete in “stamped concrete” is not a beautifier but instead refers to the material used . Secondly, when properly, the two have almost equal life spans.
Is stamped concrete the best option for long term?
Stamped concrete is typically one of the less expensive options up front, however there are some long-term factors to keep in mind before you make your decision.
Is stamped concrete hard?
One major problem is that stamped concrete cracks and chips, especially in harsher climates that experience frost. Here in New England our winters can be especially hard on concrete surfaces. Not only is it aesthetically unappealing, but it can also become a safety issue with tripping hazards.
Does concrete fade?
Rather, what ends up happening is that the sealant that locks in the color tends to fail later on, giving the concrete a faded appearance . A quick new coat of sealant will make the color come back to life.
Can stamped concrete flake?
Only concrete with terrible workmanship will have this happen in modern days. If you notice flaking from your concrete, you probably should contact the pavers for a fix.
Is stamped concrete the same as natural stone?
In reality, stamped concrete costs about the same as alternate options like natural stones and pavers. Plus, when you maintain stamped concrete properly, it’ll last longer than most other materials, which means you won’t have to replace it as often. It actually makes stamped concrete one of the most cost-effective options available to you.
Does stamped concrete fade?
While stamped concrete might show signs of fading over the years if you don’t care for it properly, putting a high-quality sealer over it should prevent most fading from taking place. You can keep your stamped concrete looking like new as long as you maintain it.
Is stamped concrete a faster way to get a patterned look?
Myth #4: Pavers are a quicker way to achieve the same result. Stamped concrete is actually one of the fastest ways to achieve a patterned look and doesn’t require the extensive labor effort of installing myriad individual paving stones.
What color is added to concrete?
This means that the base (integral) color that is mixed into the concrete should not fade. That being said, colors such as red and orange will tend to look much more ‘washed out’ with nature’s elements on ...
How often should I clean and seal concrete?
It adds warranties on coloration and movement to the system installation. Mainly, the concrete should be cleaned and sealed every 2-5 years depending on surrounding elements. We typically use a curing and sealing combo.
How does concrete get colored?
To understand how concrete gets colored, you need only know that iron oxide pigment particles are ten times smaller in size then a particle of cement. When color is added to any cement based mix, the smaller pigment particles cover the larger cement particle .
What are the factors that affect the color of concrete?
When it comes to major factors that affect color, the most critical is water to cement ratio. Controlling the amount of water added to the concrete mix is critical to producing consistent color. The addition of water permanently changes the concrete, typically lightening the final color.
Why is curing concrete important?
The remaining factors, while not as critical, are important and need to be considered and controlled: The proper curing of concrete is important to reduce surface shrinkage cracking and obtain the proper strength . It is even more important in colored concrete because lack of curing produces inconsistent color.
How much does concrete cost per square foot?
Most require minimal surface preparation (over clean, sound concrete) and last for years with minimal maintenance. Depending on the type of overlay, material cost per square foot will run $0.70 to $1.50. Integrally colored concrete remains a staple in the world of decorative concrete.
When did colored concrete start?
Background of Colored Concrete. In the early 1950s, the F.D. Davis Company introduced contractors in Southern California to the idea of adding synthetic iron oxide, at the time a waste product from chemical manufacturing, to their gray concrete mix.
Can C309 be used on concrete?
Make sure they say they are non yellowing,blush resistant or for decorative concrete. Regular C-309 cures will discolor colored concrete, and non C309 cures (i.e. penetrating cures) will not hold in the moisture uniformly. Do not use polyethylene sheeting.
Can you add water to concrete?
This is not only true when additional water is added to the concrete mix, but also when water is added to the surface during the finishing process. If the surface is drying out, or the weather is hot and windy, dont use water! Instead, use a surface evaporative control agent.
