Is stamped concrete a do-it-yourself project?

If you are looking for a great patio, but can’t seem to find the budget for expensive stone – consider Stamped Concrete! This is a great alternative choice and you won’t believe the options in color and design. Read through our article and decide if Stamped Concrete is right for your next remodel project.  hardwood-stamped-concrete1

Is stamped concrete a do-it-yourself project? No matter how many projects you may have attempted as a do-it-yourself weekend warrior, stamped concrete is not your typical endeavor for the Los Angeles home owner. Of course, any professional will tell you it's a job better left to an experienced contractor. Professional concrete contractors know how difficult and time-sensitive a stamped concrete project can be, you only get one shot! They've also had the time and sometimes unfortunate circumstance to learn by trial and error a serious learning curve you or your budget may not be up for. Personally, I don’t want to learn by mistake when it comes to my time and money.

 

Why is stamped concrete a job for professionals? Here are a few of the main reasons why stamped concrete can be a challenging project for a do-it-yourselfer:

  1. You only get one shot at this, once it dries there is no turning back or starting over. (unless you want to rip it all out and start over.)
  2. Professionals know great tricks to get the job done right and done fast.
  3. Concrete is not forgiving.

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Now let’s get to the fun part, why you need a stamped concrete patio:

  1. A stamped concrete patio gives you the look and texture of a stone patio for a lot less than the real thing — up to 50% less than the cost of natural slate or limestone.
  2. Thanks to industry innovations, there are practically limitless design choices for decorative concrete. With the current dyes and stamps, it is often difficult to tell the difference between concrete and the much pricier stone and brick options.
  3. Unlike natural stone and pavers, decorative concrete does not typically shift. Large areas typically incorporate sturdy rebar, to make it even stronger.stamped-concrete-patio-41