A space that is not normally used can be turned into a sanctuary through the resurfacing of the floor. A stamped concrete surface gives you a lot of choices to create just the space that you require.
Stamped concrete surfaces are created at the location and you can select the pattern colors and other elements that suit your taste and style. Any stamped concrete surface design is only limited by your imagination and an appreciation of the types of surfaces that you can create.
They give solid surfaces that are quite often sealed, and will not have any crevices as you will find in pavers or tiles. This makes the surface easy to maintain. Stamped surfaces can also add to the value of real estate, as they give additional elegance to the property.
The photo above is provided by SF Concrete Contractors Indianapolis, based in Indiana. Click here to visit their website’s homepage for more beautiful work and learn more about decorative cement’s durability versus similar materials at their stamped concrete page.
How do you maintain concrete stamped surfaces? During the initial laying of the concrete and the creation of the patterns and designs on the surface, care must be taken to see that the stamping is even and does not create depressions or other areas which can allow for the accumulation of water. The concrete must be allowed to cure for the full required period, as this will then give it a hardness that will allow for easier maintenance. Stamped surfaces will have small indentations and unevenness that can allow dirt and dust to gather in them. You must make it a point to clean the surface and clear all the dust and dirt that has accumulated. Clean the surface with water at regular intervals to maintain a surface that is nice to behold.
Most damage to stamped concrete floors can occur when rain falls on the surface and your surface is for a patio or driveway or another area that is exposed. The wind can bring dust and dirt to the textured flooring that can then get caught in the designs and embossing that is a pattern on these surfaces. If you have taken the precaution to add the proper sealer to your concrete, this dirt will not adhere to the surface and not be difficult to remove or clean. Blotches on surfaces after rain indicate that the sealer has been effective and can be removed if they are cleaned with water and the surface then dried with a blower or with mops.
Maintaining a textured cement surface is easy and convenient if cleaning is done regularly and without using any harsh detergents or other chemicals that can damage the concrete or the sealer. Use blowers or a vacuum cleaner to remove the dust and use your garden hose to remove any remaining debris. It is essential to ensure proper slopes to your surface so that any water that you use for cleaning runs off easily and is led to drains.
Make it a point to clean up any incidental spills, especially of oils, as if they are left unattended they can cause permanent stains that can mar the beauty of your stamped concrete surface. Abrasive materials like sand must be swept away as leaving them on the surface can lead to it being scratched further by people walking over the floor. Leaves can leave stains when they become wet and must be removed as soon as they fall on the surface.
A pressure washer can be used once in a while to give the stamped concrete surface a thorough cleaning. If you are using cleaners make sure they are neutral and will not damage the concrete. Use stiff brushes to remove dirt that is adhered to the surface. An application of sealer can make the surface easier to maintain for the next couple of months.