Saturday, 4 May 2013

Learning The Pros And Cons Of Stamped Concrete

By Wanda Vaughn


When installing patios, walkways and any other hardscape feature, there are many different paving methods you can choose from. One popular option among both the owners and developers is the stamped concrete Waukesha. This is a widely used method because of its wide choices of fascinating designs and naturalistic patterns. This can be easily applied, too. Like all other materials, though, this has its pros and cons.

This is perfect for those wanting to achieve an intricate and complex design. The results are as entrancing as the expensive materials like bricks, bluestones or limestone, but for a much more affordable cost. Different molds can be used to come up with a unique pattern, which are available in home supply stores. Alternatively, you can make one from metal or wood.

The installation is much simpler, too. Although the patterns are highly complex, setting down stamped pavements is easy, fast and simple. Forget about measuring, cutting and arranging the stones or bricks. All that must be done is pour wet concrete, push down the molds and you get the results. Even more eccentric designs like spirals or circular features can be easily achieved by this method.

The colors of stamped pavements are more visually pleasing. Unlike the boring gray color of traditional cements that people are familiar with, landscapers can add pigments to the mixtures before pouring and stamping. This creates a more natural tone and aesthetically exciting effect. There are also specialized paints used in painting individual sections of the stamped designs for a more varied colors.

However, while quite advantageous, there are also disadvantages. For a start, cracking of cement is quite common. This is an inevitable condition with any pavements. Stamped concrete is no exception. Freezing, thawing of moisture, dropping heavy weights on the pavings, ground movements and the material's shrinkage are only some of the potential reasons that could lead to cracks and degradation.

The problem is that solution may not be readily available when cracks break off the design. Unlike the pavers, bricks or stones that can easily be replaced individually when one cracks, the stamped concrete may not be remedied right away. Applying patches of concrete may cover the crack, but it could affect the design. Mismatched retouches in certain areas can be unsightly.

Blemishes, scratching and discoloration are some of the most common problems associated with stamped concretes. A buildup of wet leaves may stain the pavings resulting to a displeasing sight. Daily wear and tear, dropping of heavy metal and the use of motor vehicles may also add up to the damages incurred by the pavement.

To avoid incurring damages on the concrete, make sure that you take good care of it. Use protective rubbers on the bottom edges of the snow plows. Metal shovels must not be used when removing snow as well. This can damage the ground. Ultimately, apply acrylic sealer as protection from scratches, cracks and breakouts.

Bring your concrete Waukesha to a higher level by adding stains on the stamped concretes. This can help emphasize the details of your designs while accentuating the surrounding landscapes. To protect the color and quality of the stains, color sealant is normally used. On average, the stains and seals can be replaced after two to three years.




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