How to Stamp a Concrete Patio

Some stamped concrete patios feature natural patterns.

Stamped concrete patios are being installed alongside homes across the country. They add a finished touch and attractive elementl to landscaping. Stamp details vary from natural patterns to intricately adorned images resembling works of art. Once the concrete is poured and the hardening process has begun, the stamping is a fairly simple portion of the project. Whether your home is being built, or you're considering upgrades to an existing home, a stamped concrete patio will enhance its beauty and raise its value.

Things You'll Need

• Compactor (available at machine rental companies)
• Bull float (available at machine rental companies)
• Trowels
• Concrete (have this delivered by a professional)
• Concrete stamp or stamps of your choosing (available at home-improvement and garden)
• Wooden stakes
• Twine
• Spray paint
• Crushed rock
• Wire mesh or chicken wire
• Two-by-fours
• Sledge hammer
• Petroleum jelly
• Waterproof sealer

Instructions

How to Stamp a Concrete Patio

1. Measure and mark your planned patio area using spray paint. In the end, the paint will be covered with concrete.

2. Create a form for the patio area using two-by-fours. Unearth the grass and soil within the perimeter. Drive the stakes into the edges of the form with a sledge hammer until the top of the stakes are parallel with the two-by-fours.

3. 

   Spread crushed rock throughout the patio area. Go over the rocks with a compactor. Use a level to see if the surface is flat. Redistribute rocks as necessary. Lay the wire mesh or chicken wire over the patio area and affix to the two-by-fours with a hammer and nails.

4. Pour the concrete onto the wire and spread evenly with the bull float. Test the concrete after about an hour to see if it is beginning to set. This is determined when a flat edge ruler inserted along the edge starts to show resistance during insertion.

5. Coat the area of the stamp that will come into contact with the concrete with a thin film of petroleum jelly. Lay the stamp onto the concrete and press firmly over the entire surface. Lift the stamp and repeat the process until you have achieved your desired pattern.
   Allow the concrete to harden for at least 24 hours. Apply the sealer according to manufacturer's instructions. Allow entire patio to harden for 48 more hours before using.

Resources

• Concrete Network