|
What is
stamped concrete? How does it work? This page is designed to give you
a description of how decorative concrete is made.
Note:
This is just an overview designed to give you a feel for the stamped
concrete process. For more technical assistance, please
contact us. |
Step 1:
Mixing in the truck
 |
The first
step is to put the colorant into the truck. We mix colorant in the
truck to reduce of mess and provide a uniform color base. |
|
Step 2:
Pouring
 |
This is a
fairly standard procedure and doesn't differ much from regular
concrete. After the truck has mixed for approximately 110 revolutions
(about 5 minutes), we pour the concrete. |
|
Step 3:
Striking Off
 |
The
initial leveling off of the concrete is called striking off and is
shown here using a straight 2 x 4. |
|
Step 4:
Jitterbugging
 |
The
process known as "jitterbugging" helps bring some of the cream to the
surface, allowing smoother finishing and stamping. |
|
Step 5:
Bullfloating
 |
"Bullfloating"
is the next step. This closes the surface, bringing cream to the top
while flattening and smoothing it. It uses a long-handled magnesium
float. |
|
Step 6: Color Highlighting
 |
Once satisfied with the
smooth surface, color highlights are thrown
onto the concrete. |
|
Step 7:
Edging & Toweling
 |
Edging the
concrete gives a nice, smooth radius edge to the concrete. |
|
Step 8: The
Fresno Finish
 |
The Fresno
is the final finishing before release is applied. It uses a
long-handled trowel which is made of steel.
Note: The use
of the Fresno is avoided if freeze/thaw is an issue. Instead,
the final finish should be performed with a wood or magnesium
bullfloat. |
|
Step 9:
Throwing Release
 |
As you can
see, the release is spread evenly over the entire slab of concrete by
literally throwing it. The release agent is used to prevent bonding
between the stamping tools and the concrete. It also adds depth and
texture to the concrete. |
|
Step 10:
Laying the Tools
 |
The
Largestone Fan pattern is being used here, and as you can see, laying
the stamps starts on one side of the job, and works its way over to
the other side. |
 |
This is a
continuation of the laying process. |
|
Step 11:
Finally, the Stamping!
 |
To help
imprint the stamps, we use a 10" x10" cast iron tamper with a strong
wood handle. |
 |
On the
right, you'll notice that flexible mats are being used along the edges
to extend the pattern fully. |
|
Step 12:
Finishing Touches
 |
It may be
necessary to touch up some of the joints using a chisel before the
concrete has dried. |
|
Step 13:
The End Product
 |
After 1-2
days, or when concrete has cured sufficiently, it should be pressure
washed to remove excess release powder. After the concrete has dried
thoroughly, it should be sealed using our non-yellowing acrylic
sealer. |
 |
Here is
the patio from the other side. |
|
