Stamped Concrete Cost

Stamped concrete is concrete that replicates stones such as slate and flagstone, tile, brick and even wood. It is also often called textured or imprinted concrete and this kind of concrete is ideal and perfect outdoor paving choice for beautifying pool decks, driveways, entries, courtyards, and patios. It offers a wide array of options when it comes to concrete pattern and concrete colors. Recently, stamped concrete has become a popular choice for many homeowners. Apart from the design, another factor contributing to its popularity is its price. The cost of stamped or imprinted concrete is often considerably lower than the materials it is a substitute for.

Without giving up a natural, authentic look, concrete is the perfect canvas for creating a cost-effective replica of more expensive materials. Make sure they blend with other stone, tile or textured concrete elements at your home when choosing colors and patterns for your stamped cement. Even in complex designs with steps and fountains, patterns can be still be pressed into the concrete. Stamped concrete can also be used in conjunction with other decorative concrete elements such as exposed aggregate or acid staining. Popular patterns include running bond brick, hexagonal tile, worn rock or stone.

How about the Stamped Concrete Cost?

How about the cost? Basic stamped concrete costs between $8 and $12 per square foot, but more involved projects can be as high as $18 per square foot. Depending on the prices for materials and labor in your local market and the complexity of the job, the cost of stamped concrete varies widely. While the more expensive installations feature multi-pattern designs with special coloring effects, such as hand-applied stain accents, the most affordable stamped concrete uses just one pattern and color. Herewith the ranges of stamped concrete

• basic cost: $8-12 per square foot with one stamp pattern, one color
• mid-range cost: $12-18 per square foot borders, contrasting patterns, and colors
• high-end: $18+ per square foot, Multiple stamp patterns and colors, specialty scored designs, hand-coloring, most realistic

While the stamped concrete cost may exceed that for asphalt or plain concrete, it is competitive with or sometimes even lower than the cost of installing natural stone and brick or precast pavers. The main reason is the labor component-some installers find it more economical to pour concrete and apply a pattern than to haul and place individual paving units by hand.

And keep in mind that the initial outlay for a stamped concrete project is only part of the total cost equation. Don’t forget to consider these important factors.

• Longevity and upkeep. Concrete generally lasts longer and requires less maintenance than most other paving materials, which can add up to big savings over the pavement’s lifetime.
• Increase in resale value. Decorative stamped concrete adds curb appeal and aesthetic value to your home, allowing you to maximize the return on your investment.

Here are some tips for you to consider. You can still achieve impressive results by mixing stamped concrete with fields of less-expensive plain concrete, such as installing a driveway with only a border of stamped concrete, if you’re on a tight budget. Or do the work in stages, maybe tackling the front driveway and walkway one year followed by your backyard patio or pool deck a year or two later. If you want to save more cost, it is better picking a basic design is often a great way to keep costs at a reasonable level especially if you have a large area you want paved.