Myth #1 – Concrete is Slippery!
Not anymore. Many years ago a special abrasive non-skid additive was developed that now gives the sealer a gritty feel. The result? Stamped concrete is no longer slippery!
Myth #2 – Concrete Color Fades Quickly
False. The color is permanent. Interestingly, colored concrete that needs to be sealed can appear to have a “chalky” or faded appearance. Once a fresh coat of sealer is applied, the concrete colors come back to life again!
Myth #3 – Stamped Concrete Cracks Easily!
Yes, concrete can crack; however, not to worry. When installed properly, cracking potential is minimized and controlled to the point where the concrete could possibly crack and you’ll never even see it!
Myth #4 – Pavers are Better Than Stamped Concrete
As we like to say, “No surface is perfect”! Overall pavers tend to be more expensive and have more maintenance, due to such elements as settlement, sand, and weeds. Stamped concrete tends to be less expensive and has the least maintenance.
Myth #5 – It Looks Shiny and Fake
“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder”! Some people like the look of stamped concrete better than brick, pavers, or natural stone. Some people like the “wet look” better, some like the “dry look”. Be sure you’ve seen all of our grouted and shaded styles! Concrete sealer is now available in low, medium, and high gloss finishes. We can discuss all of these aspects in more detail when we meet to talk about your visions are.
Myth #6 – Stamp Impressions are Flatter on One Side
This myth suggests that the concrete is getting harder as the stamping process goes on. And because of this, the stamps will not be able to provide the same depth of impression from one side of a job to the other. Simply said, we are aware of this issue, we can control it and this has never been a problem for us.
Myth #7 – Color Mixed Into Concrete is Better
There are two ways to color concrete. Many believe that having the color throughout the concrete is better. The main reason for this opinion is because most customers don’t understand “the other” coloring technique referred to as Surface Color Hardener, aka, Shake-On or Toss-On color. There are many pros and cons of both techniques. Ultimately, they are both acceptable and both provide long lasting permanent color. Most homeowners believe that concrete color throughout, known as Integral color, is better because it solves the problem of getting a chip and seeing through to the white concrete. This is a great theory, but in reality getting a chip in stamped concrete is very rare and also very easy to recolor if it were to happen. Another disadvantage to integral color is color matching and a less realistic look. The advantages to surface color hardener are more detailed stamp impressions, as well as more color selections. It is more complicated than most homeowners know. Let’s discuss these details for your project and see which technique is works for you.
#8 – Stamped Concrete Won’t Last as Long as Regular Concrete
Not true. Provided your stamped concrete is maintained properly, most stamped concrete will last just as long as regular concrete. In fact, the new sealers provide extra long protection to the concrete. Go sealer!
