Stamped & Decorative Concrete

The Beauty of Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete gives you the upscale look of natural materials without the high cost or constant maintenance. We can make your concrete look like slate, flagstone, brick, cobblestone, wood planks, or almost any other pattern you can imagine. The texture and color variations look remarkably realistic, and most people cannot tell the difference between stamped concrete and the real thing.

What makes stamped concrete so appealing is the combination of beauty and practicality. You get a stunning surface that complements your home while enjoying all the benefits of concrete. No weeds growing between pavers, no stones shifting out of place, no wood rotting or splintering. Just a beautiful, solid surface that stays level and intact through all kinds of weather.

We have installed stamped concrete on patios, driveways, pool decks, walkways, and entryways throughout Issaquah and the surrounding areas. Whether you want a rustic, natural stone look or a clean, modern pattern, stamped concrete gives you design flexibility that plain concrete cannot match. When you choose our decorative concrete services, you are investing in curb appeal and property value that lasts for decades.

Pattern and Color Options

The variety of stamped concrete patterns and colors can be overwhelming, but that is a good thing. It means we can create exactly the look you want for your space. Here are some of the most popular options:

Popular Stamp Patterns

• Random Stone: Irregular flagstone or slate patterns that look natural and organic. Great for patios and walkways.
• Ashlar Slate: Rectangular stone pieces in a geometric pattern. Clean and sophisticated for modern homes.
• Cobblestone: Classic rounded stones that create an old-world European feel. Perfect for driveways and courtyards.
• Wood Plank: Realistic wood grain and plank patterns without the maintenance of real wood. Popular for decks and porches.
• Brick: Traditional running bond or herringbone brick patterns. Timeless look that works with any home style.

Color and Finishing

Color brings your stamped concrete to life. We can add color throughout the concrete mix for a uniform base tone, then apply accent colors and stains to create depth and variation. Multiple colors make the pattern more realistic by mimicking the natural color variation found in real stone or brick.

After stamping, we apply a sealer that protects the surface and enhances the colors. The sealer can be matte for a natural look or glossy for a wet, polished appearance. We recommend resealing every few years to keep your stamped concrete looking fresh and to protect it from moisture and staining.

How We Create Stamped Concrete

Creating beautiful stamped concrete requires skill, timing, and attention to detail. The process starts like any concrete project with proper site preparation, grading, and base work. We excavate, compact the subgrade, install reinforcement, and build forms just like we would for a standard driveway or patio.

When the concrete arrives, we pour and spread it quickly. Timing is everything with stamped concrete because we need to stamp the pattern while the concrete is still workable but firm enough to hold the impression. Too wet and the stamps sink in too far. Too dry and we cannot get a good impression. This window is usually just a few hours, so we work efficiently with a skilled crew.

Before stamping, we apply a release agent to the surface. This powder or liquid prevents the stamps from sticking to the concrete and adds subtle color variation. Then we press large stamp mats into the concrete, carefully aligning the patterns to create a continuous, realistic look. Each stamp section must line up perfectly with the next to maintain the illusion of individual stones or bricks.

After stamping, the concrete needs time to cure before we can clean off the release agent and apply sealer. We protect the fresh concrete from rain and direct sun during this critical period. Once curing is complete, we wash the surface, apply the sealer, and your new decorative concrete is ready to enjoy.

Common Questions About Stamped Concrete