| What is stamped concrete? How does
it work? This page is designed to give those unfamiliar
with our product a description of how decorative concrete
is made. These particular jobs used our Uni-MixTM
Integral, our Antiquing Release Agent, and our
stamping mats. ***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: Into the truck
 |
When using the integral coloring
system, the first step is to put the colorant
into the truck. We recommend using a 4-inch
slump. When adding the Uni-MixTM,
make sure you have brought the load to the top
of the truck. Simply tear off the the top of
the bag, and throw in the entire bag, including
the packaging. This saves a lot of mess, and
the bag disintegrates completely. Mix for 110
revolutions. |
|
Step 2: Pouring
 |
This is a fairly standard
procedure. After the truck has mixed for approximately
110 revolutions (about 5 minutes), 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 surface while flattening and smoothing
it. It uses a long-handled magnesium float. |
|
Step 6: Edging & Trowelling
 |
Edging the concrete gives
it a nice smooth radius edge to the concrete. |
|
Step 7: 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 should be avoided
if freeze thaw is an issue. Instead, the final
finish should be performed with a wood or magnesium
bullfloat. |
|
Step 8: Throwing Release
 |
Once satisfied with the edging
and the finish, it is time to throw the 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 9: 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 10: 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 11: Finishing Touches
 |
It may be necessary to touch
up some of the joints using a chisel before
the concrete has dried. |
|
Step 12: 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. |
|
