Specialty Concrete is the beautiful
illusion of real slates, stones, tiles and bricks. Stamped concrete is the
ideal alternative to natural paving materials for projects that demand
durability and aesthetic beauty at a fraction of the cost of more expensive
paving materials. There are numerous patterns and limitless color combinations,
stamped concrete gives you the versatility to satisfy the needs of almost any
request.
F.A.Q.'s
Q: What is stamped concrete?
A: Stamped Concrete is
regular concrete that is poured to the standard 4 inch depth (or other
specified depth) and while still wet, colored and imprinted with special
imprinting tools designed to give the concrete surface the look of real bricks,
slates, tiles and stones.
Q: Will stamped concrete crack?
A: Stamped Concrete is just
like any other concrete slab in respects to cracks. To minimize the risks of
cracks, all Hottmann Construction installers adhere to the standard practices
for crack control:
a. firmly compacted sub-base on which the concrete is
placed,
b. saw cuts at least 1/3 of the depth of the concrete placed every
12 - 15 feet.
c. expansion joints.
d. Nylon fibers added to the
concrete mix.
Consult with Hottmann Construction to determine the best way
to incorporate saw cuts and expansion joints with the pattern layout to
maximize crack control and visual appeal.
Q: Will the colors fade?
A: The pigments worked into the surface of the concrete are synthetic
iron oxides. The same pigments are used in bricks and do not noticeably fade
for many years.
Q: How many years has stamped concrete been
installed?
A: The system for making decorative concrete is more than 30
years old, with the techniques having been proven in installations throughout
the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia. Hottmann Construction has
since developed techniques to make stamped concrete stronger and more beautiful
than ever.
Q: Why is Stamped Concrete a better choice than brick
pavers?
A: No weeds can grow through the grout joints of stamped
concrete so you won’t have to “mow the patio.” Through the
effects of repeated freeze-thaw cycles, heavy rains and everyday traffic,
bricks often settle, undulate or seperate, posing a liability risk from people
tripping. Stamped Concrete is also approximately 30 - 50% cheaper than brick
pavers.
Concrete Countertops
