There are now a lot of people who want to have stamped concrete for their patios and pool decks and since it is a specialized operation, it needs a special technique. Are you among those who want to improve the looks of their driveway, patio, or walkway? You might want to try having stamped concrete, which is a great decorative option that you can get for a very affordable price. It is applied just like regular concrete but the difference is that decorative patterns and textures can be added just before it goes off to dry. You can also add up colors to make it look more attractive.
Decorate concrete is a process that needs the expertise of a professional the specialized tools an equipment. The stamped concrete contractors are the ones who apply designs on the concrete while it is still wet, which is not an easy thing to do considering there are a lot of factors that need to put into account. They have to stamp the design carefully so that they can avoid marring nearby sections. Even the best contractors would testify to the fact that it is very hard to perfect the whole process because it is almost inevitable to have a minor cracking or two, slight unevenness when it comes to the color and texture, gaping cracks, some problems on the divots because they are so deep that prevents rainwater from draining properly, and so many more.
1. Hire the right people
Since it requires a great deal of skills and the right equipment and tools, you have to see to it that you are going to get the services of the contractor who specializes in stamped concrete. It is very important that you ask the professional about his or her experience when it comes to pouring decorative concrete.
2. Contractor references would help
Inquire if you can get some references on the clients that they have had in the past so that you can check out the work that they have done. You can also talk to the clients to know if they are satisfied with the services they have had and how is the concrete stamping now.
3. Make sure you check out their credentials
The licenses that these professionals have fall under the categories of concrete pouring and home improvement or repairs. You also have to make sure that the stamped concrete contractor you are going to hire has the right insurance and bonding papers.
4. Don’t forget to share your inspiration
We all know that there seems to be no limit as to what designs you can have for your driveway and patio. You have to make sure that you were able to communicate to the contractors what you have in mind, give them details and pictures so that they can give you the results that you need.
5. Don’t hesitate to ask
For things to go well, you need to ask about the most important things such as the base preparation, removal of the existing concrete, the thickness of the concrete, timeline, and the cost of their services. You should not also forget about asking if they can give you warranty for their work.
6. Always have a contingency plan
You have to put in mind that the weather is the number one factor that you have to consider when having a stamped concrete project. There are times when it be delayed. Make sure that you know all about the details of the backup plans in case such thing will happen to you.
7. Expect maintenance
Concrete can last from 10 to 20 years and it requires a lot less maintenance than other kinds of paving materials. You may need to have sealing every two years, all depending on how it is used.