Stamped & Decorative Concrete

Get the high-end look of stone, brick, or tile at a fraction of the cost with stamped concrete.

Decorative stamped concrete driveway with custom border in Tustin, CA

Why Choose Stamped Concrete?

Stamped concrete gives you the beauty of expensive materials like natural stone, slate, brick, or wood without the high price tag or maintenance headaches. The process involves pressing patterns into freshly poured concrete before it fully hardens, creating realistic textures and designs. You can also add color to match your home or landscape.

The result is a surface that looks like premium materials but has all the durability and strength of concrete. Unlike pavers that can shift or natural stone that cracks and stains, stamped concrete stays level and is easy to maintain. Just sweep it clean and reseal every few years to keep it looking great.

We have installed stamped concrete on driveways, patios, pool decks, walkways, and even interior floors throughout Tustin. It works anywhere you want an upscale look without the upscale price.

Popular Patterns and Colors

The design options with stamped concrete are nearly endless. Here are some of the most popular choices we install:

  • Ashlar slate: Large rectangular stones with natural texture, perfect for patios and walkways
  • Cobblestone: Old world European look with rounded stones, great for driveways and courtyards
  • Wood plank: Realistic wood grain and board patterns without the rot or splinters, ideal for decks
  • Brick herringbone: Classic brick pattern in various colors, works for both traditional and modern homes
  • Flagstone: Irregular natural stone shapes for a rustic, organic look
  • Seamless texture: Subtle texture with no distinct pattern, offers a clean contemporary feel

You can choose from earth tones like tan, gray, brown, and terracotta, or go bolder with reds, blues, or custom color blends. We can also add accent borders, contrasting colors, or combine multiple patterns in one project. During your consultation, we show you sample boards so you can see exactly what your finished surface will look like.

The Stamping Process

Creating stamped concrete requires skill, timing, and the right equipment. After we prep the site and pour the concrete just like we would for any concrete project, we add color to the surface using either integral color (mixed in) or color hardener (broadcast on top). Both methods create rich, long-lasting color.

Next comes the stamping, which must happen while the concrete is still workable but firm enough to hold the pattern. We press large stamp mats into the surface, creating the texture and pattern you chose. This step requires coordination and experience because the concrete is only workable for a limited time.

After the concrete cures, we apply a release agent wash to reveal the full color and detail. Finally, we seal the surface with a high-quality sealer that protects against stains, UV fading, and wear. The sealer also enhances the color and gives the surface either a matte or glossy finish depending on your preference.

The entire process takes 2-4 days depending on project size. You can walk on the surface after 24-48 hours, but we recommend waiting a week before parking vehicles or placing heavy furniture to allow the concrete to fully cure.

Maintenance and Longevity

Stamped concrete is one of the most low-maintenance decorative surfaces you can install. Regular sweeping and occasional washing with mild soap and water keeps it clean. You should reseal the surface every 2-3 years to maintain color vibrancy and protect against stains and weather damage.

With proper care, stamped concrete lasts 20-25 years or more. If you do get minor cracks or surface wear over time, we can repair and reseal those areas without replacing the entire surface. This makes stamped concrete a smart long-term investment that continues looking great for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions