Stamped & Decorative Concrete

The Beauty of High-End Materials Without the High-End Price

Natural stone patios, brick driveways, and slate entryways are stunning, but the material and installation costs can be prohibitive for many homeowners. Stamped concrete gives you the same visual impact at roughly half to two-thirds the price. The patterns and colors available today are so realistic that most people cannot tell the difference between stamped concrete and the natural materials it replicates.

Beyond the cost savings, stamped concrete offers practical advantages over natural materials. It is a single monolithic surface without individual pieces that can shift, settle, or allow weeds to grow between joints. It handles heavy traffic and Florida weather without the maintenance headaches of pavers or natural stone. There are no loose bricks to trip over, no sand to wash out from between joints, and no individual stones to replace when they crack.

At FP Fort Pierce Concrete, we have invested in an extensive collection of stamp patterns and color systems that allow us to create truly custom looks for every project. Whether you want your driveway to look like cobblestone, your patio to resemble flagstone, or your pool deck to mimic travertine tile, we can make it happen.

Popular Stamped Concrete Patterns

• Ashlar slate for a classic European stone appearance
• Herringbone brick for traditional charm on driveways and walkways
• Flagstone for a natural, organic feel on patios and garden paths
• Wood plank for a rustic deck look without wood maintenance
• Cobblestone for old-world character on driveways and entryways

How Stamped Concrete Is Installed

Stamped concrete requires more skill and experience than standard concrete work because timing is everything. The concrete must be stamped at exactly the right stage of curing. Too early and the stamps sink too deep, losing definition. Too late and the concrete is too hard to take the impression. Our crew has the experience to read the concrete and stamp each section at the perfect moment.

The process begins like any concrete job with proper site preparation, base work, and forming. Before pouring, we select the integral color that will be the base tone of the finished surface. Once the concrete is placed and bull-floated smooth, we broadcast a color hardener or release agent across the surface. The release agent serves double duty by providing accent coloring and preventing the stamps from sticking to the wet concrete.

Our stamp mats are pressed firmly into the surface in a carefully planned sequence to create a continuous, realistic pattern. After stamping, we detail the edges and touch up any areas that need attention. Once the concrete cures, we wash off the excess release agent, revealing the beautiful two-tone color effect. A protective sealer is then applied to lock in the color and protect the surface from the elements.

Beyond Stamping: Other Decorative Techniques

Stamping is just one approach to decorative concrete. We also offer exposed aggregate finishes that reveal the natural stones within the mix, acid staining that creates rich, marbled color effects on new or existing concrete, and engraved patterns cut into cured concrete using specialized tools. Combining multiple techniques on a single project, such as a stamped patio with a stained border, creates truly one-of-a-kind results.

Maintaining Your Decorative Concrete

Decorative concrete is low-maintenance but not no-maintenance. The most important thing you can do is keep up with sealing. The sealer protects the color from UV fading, prevents moisture from penetrating the surface, and makes cleaning easier. In Florida's intense sun, we recommend resealing every two to three years to keep your stamped concrete looking its best.

Regular cleaning is simple. Sweep or blow off debris regularly and pressure wash once or twice a year to remove built-up dirt and organic growth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or deicers on decorative concrete, as these can damage the sealer and affect the color. For stubborn stains, a mild detergent and soft brush usually does the trick.

If your existing stamped concrete has faded or the sealer has worn away, we can restore it. The process involves cleaning the surface thoroughly, applying fresh color if needed, and resealing with a high-quality product. This restoration can make even years-old stamped concrete look brand new again. It is far more affordable than replacement and gives your patio or driveway a fresh lease on life.

Choosing the Right Colors and Patterns

We bring sample boards to your property so you can see actual colors and patterns against your home's exterior. Choosing colors that complement your roof, siding, and landscaping creates a cohesive look that enhances your entire property. Earth tones like tans, browns, and warm grays are perennial favorites in the Fort Pierce area, but we can create any color combination you envision.

Common Questions About Stamped Concrete