Stamped Concrete Chicago – Aesthetics at Affordable Costs
Residential and commercial customers always look for top quality yet affordable decorative concrete solutions, like stamped concrete overlay. In 20 years of doing decorative concrete, we have worked hard enough to learn how to handle projects efficiently and competently. Right from the beginning of inquiry up until the finishing touches have been applied, the installers Concrete Resurfacing Chicago are all highly trained to provide the right information, explain in detail, perform the process accurately, and complete each project with flying colors.
Stamped Concrete Overlay Vs Traditional Concrete Stamping
Concrete stamping is the same as stamped overlay, right? Not quite. Both options feature Chicago stamped concrete patterns. But while traditional stamped concrete in Chicago IL means the patterns were stamped onto a freshly poured slab, overlay means the patterns were stamped on a new overlay sitting on top of an old, but a still functional slab. Between the two, overlays are more cost effective. Traditional stamped concrete Chicago is often recommended for patios, pool decks, or driveways that are extensively damaged. So damaged that the whole slab needs to be removed, replaced with a new concrete, and then stamped. Overlay resurfacing is ideal for repairing or updating existing surfaces in Chicago Illinois that have very minimal to non-existent damage.
The Edge of Stamped Overlays Over Other Paving Options
There are many different ways to update or repair outdoor concrete surfaces in Chicago, IL. Despite this variety, stamped concrete overlay seems to stand out as a popular solution. Wondering why? Read on to find out:
- Stamped concrete overlay offers a wide range of patterns that resemble different types of paving materials, perfect for both home and business use.
- The stamped concrete overlay is versatile enough to accept an imprint and to keep the pattern existent until it hardens.
- This stamped concrete overlay can be colored with concrete stain, whether acid or water-based, to enhance its look and to make replication of natural stone more realistic.
- Applying this overlay is more economical compared to removing the old slab and replacing it with a new pour.
- Although more frequently used on outdoor surfaces, this stamped concrete overlay can also be used indoors.
- Stamped concrete Chicago causes grooves, creating an illusion of interlock or mortar without actually creating a gap where dirt or water could seep in or moss can grow out of. This makes it easier to clean and maintain.
- If an overlay is laid and stamped properly, it can stay durable for several years.
Featured Patterns for Pool Decks, Patios, Driveways and other surfaces!
A stamped concrete overlay is one of the most versatile resurfacing solutions out there. You have the option to apply the overlay on the whole slab or you can just imprint on the border or probably to highlight a specific area, like a fountain or fire pit. A Chicago stamped concrete overlay can also be used on a concrete patio and as a coping around a swimming pool. For long driveways, you can use contrasting stamped concrete patterns alternately to make the drive interesting. Some of the most popular patterns are:
- Ashlar
- Basketweave
- Brick
- Cobblestone
- European Fan
- Flagstone
- Fractured Slate
- Fractured Earth
- Herringbone
- Wood
- and more …
It’s not advisable to just choose whatever stamped concrete pattern catches your attention first. Choosing a pattern requires careful planning. If you need help with that, we’d be more than happy to assist you. Have ideas you want to incorporate in your stamped concrete pool deck, driveway, or a stamped concrete patio project in Chicago Illinois? Let us know so we could discuss your options.
Concrete Overlay Installation Process
Compared to bricks and pavers, where you have to install each piece by hand and carefully make sure they fit perfectly, a stamped concrete overlay is a lot easier and faster to install. However, this does not mean that anyone can do it. The process requires the proper tools and equipment and the right amount of experience and expertise that should be done by stamped concrete Chicago contractors. Here is a brief look on how to stamp concrete properly:
Step 1: First, professional concrete contractors evaluate the area that needs resurfacing. The slab must be in a good enough condition to be eligible for an overlay. Minor surface damage can be repaired before applying an overlay, but if the cracks or holes are too deep or indicative of a more serious issue, replacing the entire slab would be most recommended.
Step 2: If the slab is found to be eligible, it undergoes surface preparation. This is the part where the surface is cleaned and ground, if needed, to make the overlay adhere effectively.
Step 3: The overlay is mixed well and then applied on the slab thinly and evenly.
Step 4: The professional installer then places the stamp on the overlay until it imprints a pattern. This is quite tricky because the overlay must be in a condition that it can accept and maintain an imprint so a pro needs to do it. The overlay is then left to dry for a day or two.
Step 5: If the customer prefers a colored surface, the overlay is stained with an acid or water-based stain.
Step 6: > Once the Chicago Illinois project is completed, and the customer does not request for anything more, the overlay is finished off with a coating of concrete sealer. This makes the pool deck, concrete patio or any surface shine and protects the stained concrete from losing its color.
Stamped Concrete Overlay Maintenance
As long as the stamped concrete overlay is applied and stamped properly, its lifespan can last several years. Although durable, it still has to be maintained to make it last even longer. Before you fret, trust that the upkeep of a stamped overlay is not as complicated as you think. The concrete sealer finish helps simplify and minimize the cleaning and maintenance required. It seals off the pores of concrete, keeping dirt and spills on the surface, instead of getting absorbed. The lifespan, however, can be shorter especially for high traffic areas. If the sealer seems to lose its shine and protective abilities, it can be reapplied by a professional.
Cleaning the stamped concrete surface only requires a broom and mop. If you want to use a special cleaning product, it is highly recommended to ask the installer if it is safe to use on the concrete overlay and sealer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chicago stamped concrete cost is one of the most influential factors when home and business owners need to make a decision. It is a lot more economical to resurface a concrete slab than to replace the whole thing. There are many factors to consider when determining the cost of stamped overlays, such as the area of the concrete surface, the type and number of patterns used, and any other additional services the customer may request for. The price range starts from $3 to $8 per square foot and could go higher than $15 for each square foot depending on the complexity and add-ons. Any repairs required prior to installation may also incur some charges.
No, stamped concrete can last for decades! Its durability makes stamped concrete low maintenance and versatile.
The price range is between $9 and $12 per square foot. Investing in a cost-effective but long lasting stamped concrete will prevent you from hassle and regular maintenance.
Stamped concrete is economical compared to pavers. It also offers different colors and patterns for your own choosing.
25 years. Provided that it is installed correctly and maintained adequately, it can even last longer.
Interested in resurfacing your concrete? Call (773)377-8976 now!
We at Chicago Concrete Resurfacing know that you deserve beautiful and comfortable concrete surfaces, whether it is a concrete pool deck, concrete patio, or driveway. With over two decades of experience in Chicago, the stamped concrete industry, we are confident that we have what it takes to make you acquire all that and more. We are one of the trusted of the stamped concrete contractors in the area and we are proud of our concrete work and the services we provide. We pay full attention to details and we make sure that we don’t settle for less than 100%.
Want to know more our concrete repair services? Please do not hesitate to call us or email us. We offer free estimate and home services, consultation, and price quote.
