Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why would I choose concrete over other natural paving materials?
There are many reasons why concrete (plain, stamped or aggregate) makes more sense. First is maintenance – natural materials, concrete pavers and unilock will heave over time and replacing sections can become a nightmare. Also, the appearance of others will diminish over time, whereas with proper maintenance, concrete can retain a fresh appearance for years to come. Second, weeds and moss will grow through the grout lines and become a problem. This will never happen with concrete. Finally, stamped concrete and aggregate offers so many different patterns and color variations, which will suit the decor of any home.
2. How do I best care for my finished decorative concrete work?
It is important to apply a high quality sealer to any decorative concrete once it has been poured and cured. The sealer should be reapplied every two years. If the concrete work is in an area that will require snow removal such as a driveway or front walkway then please follow these guidelines carefully: 1) if shoveling, always clear the area with a plastic shovel only 2) if plowing, make certain the bottom of the plow has a rubber squeegee that runs the entire length 3) if using a snow blower, make sure the height is adjusted to clear the concrete’s surface. Finally, never use any calcium, salt or other chemicals on the surface. We recommend that you spread only sand or cat litter across the surface. To prevent a slippery surface a substance is mixed in the sealer called "Shark Grip" when it is sealed initially. If buying sealer to reseal your concrete work please call us to be directed where to purchase the correct product. Many sealers available at "big box" stores do not offer UV protection and can react to the existing sealer causing yellowing.
3. Will the color fade?
If you care properly for your imprinted concrete the colour will not fade. It is important to seal the concrete, as that will enhance the colour that is in the cement.
There are many reasons why concrete (plain, stamped or aggregate) makes more sense. First is maintenance – natural materials, concrete pavers and unilock will heave over time and replacing sections can become a nightmare. Also, the appearance of others will diminish over time, whereas with proper maintenance, concrete can retain a fresh appearance for years to come. Second, weeds and moss will grow through the grout lines and become a problem. This will never happen with concrete. Finally, stamped concrete and aggregate offers so many different patterns and color variations, which will suit the decor of any home.
2. How do I best care for my finished decorative concrete work?
It is important to apply a high quality sealer to any decorative concrete once it has been poured and cured. The sealer should be reapplied every two years. If the concrete work is in an area that will require snow removal such as a driveway or front walkway then please follow these guidelines carefully: 1) if shoveling, always clear the area with a plastic shovel only 2) if plowing, make certain the bottom of the plow has a rubber squeegee that runs the entire length 3) if using a snow blower, make sure the height is adjusted to clear the concrete’s surface. Finally, never use any calcium, salt or other chemicals on the surface. We recommend that you spread only sand or cat litter across the surface. To prevent a slippery surface a substance is mixed in the sealer called "Shark Grip" when it is sealed initially. If buying sealer to reseal your concrete work please call us to be directed where to purchase the correct product. Many sealers available at "big box" stores do not offer UV protection and can react to the existing sealer causing yellowing.
3. Will the color fade?
If you care properly for your imprinted concrete the colour will not fade. It is important to seal the concrete, as that will enhance the colour that is in the cement.
