Stamped & Decorative Concrete

Beautiful Concrete That Looks Like Natural Materials

Stamped concrete gives you the upscale appearance of natural stone, pavers, or brick without the high cost or maintenance that comes with those materials. Using specialized stamps and coloring techniques, we can create patterns and textures that closely mimic slate, flagstone, cobblestone, wood planks, and more. The result is a surface that looks expensive and custom but offers all the strength and longevity of traditional concrete.

This makes stamped concrete ideal for driveways, patios, walkways, pool decks, and entryways. You get a distinctive look that enhances your home's curb appeal and outdoor living spaces without dealing with the shifting, settling, or weed growth that happens with individual pavers. And unlike natural stone that can crack, flake, or become uneven, stamped concrete stays smooth and intact for decades when properly installed.

Around Bartlesville, we've completed stamped concrete projects in a wide range of styles. Some homeowners want the rustic look of weathered stone for a patio. Others prefer the clean lines of large-format tile or the classic appeal of brick for a driveway. Whatever design you have in mind, stamped concrete offers nearly unlimited options for color, pattern, and texture.

How Stamped Concrete Works

Creating stamped concrete requires skill, timing, and attention to detail. The process is similar to a standard concrete pour, but with added steps for color and pattern. Here's how we bring your design to life.

Site Prep and Base Work

Just like any concrete project, we start with thorough site preparation. The area is excavated, graded for drainage, and a compacted base is installed. Forms are set to define the edges, and reinforcement is added to prevent cracking. A solid foundation is critical because stamped concrete is only as good as what's underneath it.

Pouring and Color Application

Once everything is ready, we pour and level the concrete. While the surface is still wet, we broadcast a color hardener over the top. This powder integrates into the surface and provides the base color for the finished look. We can use a single color or layer multiple shades to create depth and variation that mimics natural materials.

Stamping and Texturing

After the color is applied and the concrete reaches the right consistency, we press large stamping mats into the surface. These mats have detailed patterns that create realistic textures and joint lines. Timing is everything here because the concrete needs to be firm enough to hold the pattern but soft enough to accept the stamp. A release agent is applied before stamping to prevent the mats from sticking and to add accent color that highlights the texture. Once stamping is complete, we allow the concrete to cure fully before sealing.

Design Options and Customization

One of the biggest advantages of stamped concrete is the sheer variety of looks you can achieve. You're not limited to a single style or color. Here are some of the most popular options we offer.

• •Stone patterns: Flagstone, slate, fieldstone, and river rock designs create a natural, earthy appearance that works well for patios and walkways.
• •Brick and cobblestone: Classic patterns like running bond brick or European cobblestone add timeless elegance to driveways and entryways.
• •Tile and geometric: Large format tile, hexagons, or custom geometric patterns provide a modern, clean look for contemporary homes.
• •Wood plank: Stamped concrete can even replicate the look of wood decking, giving you the appearance of a wood deck without the rot, splinters, or annual maintenance.
• •Custom borders and accents: We can combine patterns or add decorative borders to create a truly unique design that matches your home's style.

Color choices are just as flexible. You can go with earth tones like tan, brown, and gray for a natural look, or choose bolder colors like red, blue, or charcoal for something more distinctive. Multiple colors can be layered and blended to add depth and realism. The key is choosing a design that complements your home and landscape while fitting your budget.

Maintaining Your Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is far easier to maintain than the materials it mimics, but it still benefits from regular care. Here's what you need to know to keep your stamped surface looking great for years.

First, keep the surface clean. Sweep away dirt and debris regularly, and hose it down as needed. For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals or pressure washers set too high, as these can damage the sealer or surface color.

Sealing is the most important maintenance task. A quality sealer protects the color, enhances the appearance, and guards against moisture, stains, and wear. We recommend resealing every two to three years, depending on traffic and exposure. This is a simple process that makes a big difference in how long your stamped concrete retains its original look.

Finally, be mindful of what you use on the surface in winter. Avoid rock salt and harsh de-icing chemicals, which can damage the sealer and concrete. Sand or calcium chloride are safer alternatives. With these basic steps, your stamped concrete patio or driveway will continue to impress for decades.

Common Questions About Stamped Concrete