Concrete stamping is one of the ways you can decorate your concrete and give it an excellent finish. There are many steps involved in stamping concrete, and everything has to happen within a short time window to achieve a lasting result. Unlike other means of decorating concrete such as staining or coating which can be done anytime, concrete stamping has to be done as quickly as possible before the freshly poured concrete hardens. This is why it requires expert contractors who have been stamping for years to handle it. Here, we discuss how to stamp your concrete and tips to guide you in doing it.
Apply the Color Hardener:
Once your concrete has reached the right state of plasticity, i.e., when there is no more bleed water on the concrete surface, apply color hardener all over the concrete. The application is simple as all you have to do is throw the powder on the concrete. Do it in such a way that it spreads all over without a concentration of color hardener in one area where other areas have nothing. You should apply the color hardener in two layers. The first layer should be given some time for the concrete to absorb it before you apply another layer. The essence of applying double layers is to ensure that no part of your concrete is missed.
Add Release Agents:
Release agents could be liquid or powdered. They serve two primary purposes. The first is that they add color contrast on the concrete while the second is that they also act as bond breakers which will prevent the stamping mat from sticking to the concrete when the stamping begins. When applying the powdered form, use a brush to absorb the powder and flick it over the concrete for it to spread evenly. For the liquid, it is best to use a spray, and it should be done just before you start stamping the concrete. Where you’re using a tinted liquid release agent, apply it a day or two before you stamp the concrete.
Test Your Concrete:
You need to determine if your concrete is ready before you stamp it. Determining the readiness of concrete is essential. The concrete must have reached the perfect plasticity level. It must not be too hard that making imprints on it would be difficult or too soft that it cannot support the weight of the workers. Test the concrete by pressing your finger into the surface, if you make an imprint that is about 1/4 inches deep, then, the time is right. You can also place the stamp on the surface and stand on it, if it supports your weight without sinking deep or sliding around, you can start stamping.
Pretexture The Perimeter of the Concrete Slab:
Do this with a flex mat or texturing skin along the edges for between 6 to 12 inches inward. Doing this will prevent your tool from overlapping, and you’ll be able to depress the entire concrete.
Place the Stamps:
The first row of stamps is most important because once you get that, you have to follow the sequence. It is best to use the sequence suggested by the manufacturer.
Conclusion
Stamping concrete is a fantastic way of decorating concrete. What makes it even better is that you can do it yourself in some instances. For even more tips and tricks about stamped concrete Concrete Contractors Denver CO.
