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How to Upgrade Your Patio by Resurfacing with Stamped Concrete


How to resurface your patio with stamped concrete



Materials

  • Brick chisel
  • tamping tool
  • concrete texture mat
  • releasing agent
  • trowel
  • bucket for mixing
  • pressure washer
  • long handled squeegee
  • Concrete Sealer
  • patching compound

Project Difficulty

Moderate- this project is very hands on requires a fair amount of physical effort

Project Time

2-3 days depending on size of project area.

Step 1:

Brick chisel

Use a brick chisel to break away any cracked or loose mortar in areas that have been previously patched. You will want your surface as flat and level as possible. Sweep away any dirt and debris


Step 2:

powerwash

Use a pressure washer to thoroughly clean your patio and remove any remaining dirt or debris.

Step 3:

patching concrete

Mix up a patching agent as per the manufacturer's instructions. Patch any areas of your patio that have holes or cracks. Set up the mixture roughly 1/4" and allow to harden.

Step 4:

Section off your patio into work areas that are no larger than 144 square feet. Use control joints and expansion joints to help you define the work areas.

Step 5:

releasing agent

Cover the first section of your patio with your freshly mixed concrete, and allow to sit for roughly 5 minutes. You want the concrete to be partially wet, but still malleable. Dip a finger slightly into the concrete, if the indentation remains, it is safe to proceed. The release agent is usually in powder form. Sprinkle the powder evenly over the concrete. Avoid clumps of powder as this will hamper proper imprints when you attach the texture mats. In most cases, 3 ½ pounds is required for every 100 square feet of concrete. Be sure to apply the agent over the entire surface. The release agent ensures that the mat doesn’t cling onto the freshly poured concrete.


Step 6:

matt placement

Carefully place a mat onto the concrete. Press the mat firmly all around the edges. Attach the second mat next to the first, followed by the third mat. Be sure to place the mats right next to each other to eliminate gaps.
Apply even pressure over the mats with a tamping tool. This ensures that all areas of the mat are imprinted onto the concrete underneath. Avoid excessive force as it will ruin the design. Repeat this over the entire patio. Concrete cures quickly, so it may be helpful to have a few friends help you out with the stamping process.


Step 7:

Hose

Allow the concrete to dry for roughly 24 hrs, then using a garden hose, hose down the area to remove the releasing agent from the concrete.


Step 8:

sealed vs unsealed

Use a sponge roller to apply a coat of concrete sealant. Try to strive to a light, even coat. Wait for the first coat to dry completely before you apply another two coats. This helps to maintain the integrity of your concrete. It also gives it higher protection against the elements.
Optional*
Use a colored sealant to add depth and vibrance to the concrete, as well as giving it a more natural stone look!


Enjoy

Now you can enjoy your beautiful new patio for years to come! Make sure to re-seal the concrete roughly every 2-3 years!

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