Is Stamped Concrete Outdated?

Stamped concrete first became popular back in the 1980s and 90s. It was a fresh, innovative way to get a beautifully patterned pavement back then. It avoided the high cost of materials like brick or natural stone. Homeowners could upgrade their outdoor living spaces with patterned concrete restoration. It’s a budget-friendly option.

But now we’re well into the 2020s. Trends come and go quickly these days. So it’s fair to wonder – is decorative concrete starting to look outdated? Or does it still have staying power as a stylish, affordable outdoor flooring?

 

“It is not outdated. The trend is growing for us locally as concrete contractors. I’m seeing more companies pop up each year as competitors. There’s a 5 to 10 percent increase in customers each year. Homeowners don’t want regular uncolored concrete anymore!”

The History And Evolution Of Stamped Concrete

Origins and early development

• Colored concrete has ancient origins, used by Romans in buildings and structures.
• In the 1950s-60s, Brad Bowman pioneered modern colored concrete, developing patented tools to imprint textures and patterns into concrete to mimic brick, wood, slate, etc

Expansion in popularity and design options

• Demand grew exponentially in the 1970s as patterned concrete became widely adopted in construction.
• More patterns were created and a variety of stains became available, expanding design options dramatically.

Advances in tools

• In the 1970s-80s, new lightweight and durable urethane and plastic stamps were developed, making the process much more efficient.
• New concrete molds improved realism by imprinting both texture and pattern details into concrete.

Contemporary trends

• Since the 2000s, stamped concrete has seen a resurgence in popularity due to increased focus on aesthetics and curb appeal.
• New trends include a mix of patterns, multi-colored designs, geometric shapes, metallics, sustainability improvements, and indoor applications.

In summary, while fundamental techniques remain similar, patterned concrete has evolved enormously over decades in terms of design variety, realism, efficiency, applications, and integration of contemporary trends. Continued innovation in tools, materials, and contractors’ expertise further expands creative possibilities.

Why Designers and Homeowners Still Love Stamped Concrete

 

“I have completed thousands of jobs. I’ve seen installed stamped concrete patios enhance spaces in every imaginable home layout and design style. And I rarely encounter clients who don’t love the finished look.”

Here are some of the reasons colored textured concrete gets rave reviews year after year:

Concrete offers a blank canvas. This results in total customization. No two colored concrete installations ever look the same. You have complete creative freedom over patterns, colors, borders, finishes, and more. It’s simple to achieve unique spaces.

Low maintenance:

Colored concrete, when properly sealed, requires virtually no regular maintenance. This is unlike real wood floors or natural stone. Just occasional resealing and soap-and-water cleaning keep it looking like new.

Durability:

Patterned concrete stands up beautifully to decades of foot traffic. It also withstands furniture scraping, party spills, and pet accidents. It can endure snow shoveling and harsh weather. The compressed surface texture hides wear exceptionally well.

Affordability:

Colored concrete provides a high-end look at a low cost. The price tag falls far under authentic stone, slate, travertine, and hardwoods.

Longevity:

Proper site prep, pouring, curing, and finishing can make patterned concrete surfaces last 25+ years. This applies to driveways, patios, and flooring. Few building materials offer that kind of enduring performance. Specialized concrete lasts for decades.

Sustainability:

Unlike wood flooring and quarried stone, colored concrete uses local ingredients. It is abundant and includes sand, gravel, and cement. Production typically occurs close to home, reducing environmental impact.

Design versatility:

They match any architectural style well, and colored concrete works beautifully indoors and out. The texture adds visual flair to modern minimalist spaces. Its traditional brick, slate, and wood patterns fit in old-world, Tuscan, and farmhouse designs.

High ROI – Curb appeal matters, as the real estate market reminds us. Patterned concrete is one of the most cost-effective ways to boost exterior aesthetic value. And the improvement should last decades without the need for replacement.

Permeability:

Colored concrete, unlike wood and tile, allows water to permeate through instead of forming puddles. This prevents slip hazards in wet weather and reduces ice buildup in winter.

Emerging Trends to Watch in Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete’s sustained popularity comes from advancing technologies. These make the installations more realistic, affordable, and sustainable. Here are some of the most exciting innovations gaining traction right now:

Enhanced realism:

Using concrete stains, color hardeners, and specialized tools in one project significantly enhances realism. Additionally, using multiple rubber mold designs and hand texturing is beneficial. Details like faux grout lines, indented cracks, and hand-chiseled edges replicate the authentic look of stone and wood much better.

Cooler hues:

For years, earth tones dominated. Cool greys, alluring blues, and soothing greens are increasingly popular. These chic options blend beautifully with modern color palettes. They work well for both exterior and interior design.

Bold patterns:

Geometric shapes, like triangles, circles, diamonds, and hexagons, add a modern flair to patterned concrete installations. They are creative combinations. These graphic prints pair exceptionally well with contemporary architecture’s sleek lines.

Metallic finishes:

Mixed into the concrete, metal particles make the surface glimmer alluringly. The slick sheen suits contemporary modern spaces beautifully. Copper and bronze metallic finishes feel incredibly on-trend lately.

Pervious concrete :

It could also be used for decades in residential and commercial applications when properly installed. Environmental responsibility motivates advances in previous concrete. It allows rain and snowmelt to filter through to surrounding soil rather than run off. Combining this eco-friendly pour with stamping increases sustainability.

Indoor finishes:

Colored concrete no longer ends at the door. Acid staining, artistic scoring techniques, and embedding decorative aggregates create showstopping interior floors. We’ll likely see stamped concrete continue moving inside.

Thin stamping:

Breakthroughs with thinner stamped overlays mean existing indoor floors can get a concrete update. For example, you can update ugly tiles or worn wood. Thin stamps cause less disruption and expand applications.

More cost-efficient:

I’ve noticed that stamped concrete installations now need less time and labor. This is because techniques and equipment have improved. Contractors pass those cost savings to clients. Colored concrete’s affordability will likely only increase.

The Comeback of Stamped Concrete

In recent years, we have seen a resurgence in stamped concrete installations. This pavement style stayed. Yet, advances in stamping tools, color hardeners, release agents, and sealer products have made it even more realistic and durable.

Randy D. is a stamped concrete contractor from New Hampshire. He owns Northeast Decorative Concrete, LLC. He explains:

 

“Today’s stamped concrete overlays use better materials and methods than 30 years ago. We used metal stamps with no texture. Imagine what that looked like!. But, back then, the homeowners loved it! Now, the patterns are crisper and more detailed. Color hardeners let us match the rich natural tones of real stone and brick. Modern sealer products also better prevent fading, cracks, stains, and other damage. Colored concrete may have started as a budget alternative. But now, the results we can deliver rival the beauty of higher-end building materials.”

Patterned, colored driveways are a cost-effective option for upgrading outdoor living areas. They remain one of the most popular choices. They cost less per square foot. Additionally, they are a great option. As Randy notes:

 

“Stone, brick, pavers, and other alternatives are far more expensive than stamped ones. Today’s economy has more homeowners looking for affordable remodels over luxury upgrades. Stamped concrete delivers on visual appeal and budget. The results stand the test of time.”

Current Decorative Concrete Stamp Trends

Colored concrete’s ongoing popularity is evident. It has expanded far beyond basic brick and flagstone looks. Contractors now offer an almost endless catalog of options. Modern jobs incorporate trendy patterns. They mimic wood planking, cut stone, mosaic tiles, and other high-end finishes.

Rich colors are also on-trend in basic stamped concrete. The colors range from earthy natural tones to vibrant hues that make a bold statement.

Randy with “Northeast” recently completed a desert-sandstone stamped patio. It has dark brown borders that deliver a stunning pop of color. The pop contrasts the home’s neutral exterior.

Customization is key as well. Homeowners prefer freeform shapes, curves, and borders over simple squares or rectangles. Complex multi-color designs take the place of basic single-tone jobs. There are even advanced techniques to mimic distressed, weathered finishes.

 

“These days,” Randy explains, “we can recreate anything you can imagine in stamped concrete patios.” “Between innovations in stamping technology and homeowners’ growing desire to customize, stamped is becoming one of the most on-trend concrete options out there.”

The Stamp Concrete Cost of Approval From Landscape Design Pros

Even landscape designers and architects have approved stamped concrete costs. They also approve concrete restoration again. They’re speaking of trends. This pavement style beautifully complements modern design styles like contemporary, urban, and industrial.

For example, Randy’s recent patio project used sleek gray wood-plank stamping. He also used linear borders. This delivered a modern vibe that aligns with current trends. This creative stamped adaptation was far from the dated, fake brick patterns.

Major hardscaping suppliers like Belgard, Mutual Materials, and EP Henry have also helped revive colored concrete. They expanded their products, concrete sealer patterns, and training. These companies invest heavily in showcasing stamped concrete patterns. They also showcase pavers, retaining walls, outdoor kitchens, and other trending design elements. Their vibrant trade show booths and website galleries reveal the versatility of decorative concrete. It can achieve today’s most popular hardscape styles.

Stamped concrete slab is a current design option. It is affordable and pairs well with contemporary designs, colors, and finishes. The dated stigma is fading among both homeowners and industry insiders.

Long-Lasting Patio & Driveway Beauty and Value

Stamped concrete surfaces last a long time and need little maintenance. It sets them apart from other materials. Properly mixed, stamped, sealed, and maintained can deliver decades of lasting beauty with minimal upkeep.

Moisture is the biggest enemy. Over time, it can cause cracks, pitting, and color leaching. However, modern sealer products far outperform the early waterproofing attempts. And improved concrete mix designs help control cracking far better than decades ago.

Randy advises homeowners that longevity comes down to 2 key factors:

 

First, hire a highly experienced, specialized decorative concrete stamp contractor. Don’t just hire any concrete crew. Skilled, meticulous work gets those artistic finishes and long-lasting results. Second, be religious about resealing the surface every 3-5 years as needed in your climate. Do that, and I guarantee your patterned concrete will still look fabulous 25+ years later.”

That kind of longevity delivers an outstanding return on investment. Colored concrete won’t need wholesale replacing after a decade or two. Genuine stone or pavers do. If it is properly installed and maintained. Minimal maintenance is far easier than sanding and resealing wood decks or planking. Stamped concrete still can’t be beaten for beauty, durability, and affordability in the long run. You can’t top the pattern and color either.

Stamped Concrete Overlay Perceptions Are Changing

Stamped driveways had a reputation as an outdated, budget material among some audiences. There’s no denying it. And in truth, early stamped jobs tended to look fake and failed to stand the test of time. But the category has come a long way thanks to material and technique innovations.

Specialized artisans can create strikingly realistic textures and colors for stamped concrete pool decks. The result rivals luxury finishes. Creative custom designs align with current trends. Improved durability prevents the cracks, stains, and other issues that plagued earlier projects.

Decorative concrete is a viable and attractive option for homeowners and trade professionals. It offers cost savings, low maintenance, and custom design potential.

 

Randy summarizes, “In my experience, stamped concrete is only gaining popularity. It’s not losing ground. ” Consider the beautiful ashlar slate finishes we can achieve now. They offer outstanding durability and cost savings. Stamped provides unmatched value over genuine stone or pavers. I don’t see it going out of style anytime soon!”

Home and business owners considering a patio, walkway, or pool deck should take a fresh look at colored concrete driveways. It’s also worth considering for other outdoor living upgrades. This seamless concrete is durable, affordable, and customizable. When installed by a professional, it meets every need for savvy homeowners. It’s suitable for both residential and commercial use. Be sure to view project photos and talk to local specialists. This will help you understand how far stamped options have advanced. They are not like the fake jobs of decades past. Thanks to the concrete sealer and proper installation.

 

Our Locations:

 

Nashua, NH

North Hampton, NH

Concord, NH