| Imprinted concrete can be used anywhere gray concrete is
used. Patios, driveways, steps, walks, and basement floors.
It is something done with decorative borders that accentuate
the pattern in the field; or a stamped border can be used around
gray or unstamped colored concrete to achieve a desired effect.
Imprinted concrete is as durable as, if not more so, that
the more common gray varieties. The type of concrete used
is Bomanite, a concrete that has less rock that can pop and
a greater amount of portland cement. The larger volume of
portland increases the surface strength which helps it resist
weathering. The addition of sealers also increase resistance
to moisture. A gloss sealer can be used, however high gloss
sealers tend to be slippery when wet. When gloss sealers are
used it is recommended to be mixed with a non-slip synthetic
aggregate.
Imprinting is done by pressing stamping tools into fresh
concrete after it has been trawled. It is necessary to use
a release agent, either a clear spray on or a colored powder,
to break cohesion and allow the tools to be removed. Clear
release agents are used when a multicolored effect is not
wanted and will reduce the need for cleanup. Colored release
agents add an aged look by being pressed into the concrete
during the imprinting process. Generally the color of the
release agent chosen is darker than the base color of the
concrete. This adds to the depth of color. Colored release
agents are usually left in place for a couple days and then
removed. The concrete is then cleaned and can be sealed. If
an acid stain is to be applied it must be done prior to sealing.
BACK TO INDEX
|