Stamped Decorative Concrete Westchester County Stampcrete New York

Will the finished product experience any cracking over time?
Any poured concrete, whether it’s decorative or otherwise, can experience some cracking – this is the nature of concrete. However, when installed properly, cracking can be greatly reduced or even eliminated entirely. A top quality mix must be used and the concrete would need to be further strengthened through the use of nylon mesh additives, rebar and wire mats. Quality concrete work will cost a bit more up front. However, the long term peace of mind of never having to hassle with it again will pay for itself year after year.

Why would I choose decorative concrete over natural paving materials?
There are many reasons why stamped concrete makes more sense. The first is cost – stamped concrete is almost always less expensive than the materials for which it substitutes. Next is maintenance – natural materials, concrete pavers and unilock will heave over time and replacing sections can become a nightmare. Eventually, weeds and moss will grow through the grout lines and become a problem. This will never happen with stamped concrete. Finally, stamped concrete offers so many different patterns and color variations which simply aren’t available elsewhere – it can truly satisfy anybody’s demanding taste.

For example, the following three pictures were taken of a new concrete paver installation at the North White Plains train station in White Plains, NY. This sitting area was completed in May of 2005 and these pictures were taken just a few months later on September 16th 2005. You can see that this job is brand new – notice how new the pavers look. Yet, this patio looks hideous due to all the unsightly weeds – what a waste of thousands of dollars: Picture 1, Picture 2, Picture 3. You will NEVER experience this problem with a decorative concrete installation!

I have a plain concrete surface and would like to give it a decorative look. Do I have to rip out what I have and pour new concrete?
No. with our state of the art Overlay Systems just about any existing concrete surface can be covered up with a brand new decorative look. The time, money and peace of mind that can be saved by not having to demo an existing concrete slab make our overlay systems worth their weight in gold. With a workable surface the overlay can be stamped, stained, etched and textured with an unlimited number of patterns. And, best of all, our overlay systems are perfect for interior and exterior uses and are 1.5 – 2 times stronger than concrete (overlays are rated at 6000 psi). It’s got to be original Stampcrete Mirage or Re-Do-It – don’t settle for anything less.

How do I best care for my finished decorative concrete work?
The final step taken on a decorative concrete hardscape installation is to coat the finished work with a high quality sealer. The sealer is necessary to protect the surface and it also brings out the vibrant beauty of the colors. The sealer should be reapplied every three years or so. If the concrete work is in an area that will require snow removal such as a driveway or front walkway then please follow these guidelines carefully: 1) if shoveling, always clear the area with a plastic shovel only 2) if plowing, make certain the bottom of the plow has a rubber squeegee that runs the entire length 3) if using a snow blower, make sure the height is adjusted to clear the concrete’s surface. Finally, never use any calcium, salt or other chemicals on the surface. We recommend that you spread only sand or cat litter across the surface.

Does a contractor need a special license or certification to install decorative concrete?
No, none is required. But, just like in selecting a contractor to perform any work for you, make sure they are experienced in their field, insured and that they have a good reputation.

Where can I use stamped concrete?
Stamped and decorative concrete is great for so many different applications. It can be used for: walkways, patios, pool decks, garden pathways, driveways, basement floors, garage floors, countertops, lobbies, stores and restaurants, steps, courtyards, plazas, platforms, porches – you name it! A question much easier to answer is where can I not use stamped concrete. Be sure to view our gallery for great design ideas.

If you were not able to find the answers to your specific questions here then please do not hesitate to contact us – we would love to hear from you. We will continually add new content to this section so please be sure to check back in frequently.

	Contact Us Today Ph: 914-285-9274 249 Ferris Ave White Plains, NY 10603 info@decocretedepot.com
Frequently Asked Questions Will the finished product experience any cracking over time? Any poured concrete, whether it’s decorative or otherwise, can experience some cracking – this is the nature of concrete. However, when installed properly, cracking can be greatly reduced or even eliminated entirely. A top quality mix must be used and the concrete would need to be further strengthened through the use of nylon mesh additives, rebar and wire mats. Quality concrete work will cost a bit more up front. However, the long term peace of mind of never having to hassle with it again will pay for itself year after year. Why would I choose decorative concrete over natural paving materials? There are many reasons why stamped concrete makes more sense. The first is cost – stamped concrete is almost always less expensive than the materials for which it substitutes. Next is maintenance – natural materials, concrete pavers and unilock will heave over time and replacing sections can become a nightmare. Eventually, weeds and moss will grow through the grout lines and become a problem. This will never happen with stamped concrete. Finally, stamped concrete offers so many different patterns and color variations which simply aren’t available elsewhere – it can truly satisfy anybody’s demanding taste. For example, the following three pictures were taken of a new concrete paver installation at the North White Plains train station in White Plains, NY. This sitting area was completed in May of 2005 and these pictures were taken just a few months later on September 16th 2005. You can see that this job is brand new – notice how new the pavers look. Yet, this patio looks hideous due to all the unsightly weeds – what a waste of thousands of dollars: Picture 1, Picture 2, Picture 3. You will NEVER experience this problem with a decorative concrete installation! I have a plain concrete surface and would like to give it a decorative look. Do I have to rip out what I have and pour new concrete? No. with our state of the art Overlay Systems just about any existing concrete surface can be covered up with a brand new decorative look. The time, money and peace of mind that can be saved by not having to demo an existing concrete slab make our overlay systems worth their weight in gold. With a workable surface the overlay can be stamped, stained, etched and textured with an unlimited number of patterns. And, best of all, our overlay systems are perfect for interior and exterior uses and are 1.5 – 2 times stronger than concrete (overlays are rated at 6000 psi). It’s got to be original Stampcrete Mirage or Re-Do-It – don’t settle for anything less. How do I best care for my finished decorative concrete work? The final step taken on a decorative concrete hardscape installation is to coat the finished work with a high quality sealer. The sealer is necessary to protect the surface and it also brings out the vibrant beauty of the colors. The sealer should be reapplied every three years or so. If the concrete work is in an area that will require snow removal such as a driveway or front walkway then please follow these guidelines carefully: 1) if shoveling, always clear the area with a plastic shovel only 2) if plowing, make certain the bottom of the plow has a rubber squeegee that runs the entire length 3) if using a snow blower, make sure the height is adjusted to clear the concrete’s surface. Finally, never use any calcium, salt or other chemicals on the surface. We recommend that you spread only sand or cat litter across the surface. Does a contractor need a special license or certification to install decorative concrete? No, none is required. But, just like in selecting a contractor to perform any work for you, make sure they are experienced in their field, insured and that they have a good reputation. Where can I use stamped concrete? Stamped and decorative concrete is great for so many different applications. It can be used for: walkways, patios, pool decks, garden pathways, driveways, basement floors, garage floors, countertops, lobbies, stores and restaurants, steps, courtyards, plazas, platforms, porches – you name it! A question much easier to answer is where can I not use stamped concrete. Be sure to view our gallery for great design ideas. If you were not able to find the answers to your specific questions here then please do not hesitate to contact us – we would love to hear from you. We will continually add new content to this section so please be sure to check back in frequently.
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