4 Steps To Maintain Your Stamped Concrete Patio
A stamped concrete patio offers a look that closely mimics high-end paving materials, such as brick, slate, or stone. Compared to such materials, stamped concrete is more durable, more affordable, and more versatile because of its customizability.
Relatively speaking, stamped concrete also requires less maintenance than other paving materials. However, there are steps you have to take to preserve the beauty of your patio and prevent premature damage, such as cracking or fading. There are four steps involved in maintaining your stamped concrete patio.
1. Cleaning
Regular cleaning is one of the key aspects of stamped concrete maintenance. Keeping the patio clear and free from debris will go a long way toward protecting the concrete and the sealant.
Approximately once a week, you should sweep away foreign contaminants, such as dirt, leaves, and twigs, with a broom. It is also acceptable to use a leaf blower. Afterward, you should rinse off the patio with an ordinary garden hose and spray attachment.
Occasionally, your patio may be stained by food spills, bird excrement, or grease. You should use a gentle cleaner, such as dish soap, and warm water to spot clean the stain. Be sure to use cleaners that will not harm the concrete and rinse the patio thoroughly afterward to avoid the buildup of any residue.
2. Resealing
Sealing is the last step involved in the installation of your stamped concrete patio. The sealant provides protection from water, harsh rays of the sun, and other outdoor conditions. It also provides the shine and makes the colors appear richer. However, the sealant does not last forever, and the patio eventually has to be resealed.
Take care not to reseal your patio too often. It probably won’t need it for at least a year and a half, and if allowed to build up, the different layers of coating eventually turn an ugly shade of yellow. It is recommended that you reseal your patio every two to three years. However, you may notice the sealant on your patio wearing away sooner than that, usually due to extreme weather conditions or heavy foot traffic. In this scenario, ignore the schedule and reseal it as needed.
When resealing a patio, it is important that you coat the whole surface smoothly and avoid trapping yourself in a corner. We recommend that you call us for resealing rather than trying to handle it yourself. Nevertheless, you can prepare your patio for resealing by thoroughly cleaning the surface beforehand and making sure it is completely dry.
3. Protection
You can improve the longevity of your stamped concrete patio by limiting its exposure to the elements. A pergola or canvas patio cover protects the patio from the sun and may extend its life by several years.
Another way to protect your patio is with an outdoor rug. This not only looks great against the stamped concrete, but it also helps to protect the surface from food spills, stains, and scratches from moving furniture around.
4. Snow and Ice Removal
Snow and ice can wear down the sealant and harm the patio itself, but traditional removal methods can be almost as bad. If possible, you should use a plastic shovel or a snow blower on stamped concrete. A plow or shovel with a metal edge can scratch it. Chemical de-icers are acidic and can damage the sealant on your patio. These should not be used, especially when the sealant is most vulnerable during the first winter after installing the concrete.
A properly installed, well-maintained stamped concrete patio should last for decades. Regular maintenance helps ensure that your patio lasts at least as long as it is supposed to and may even extend its useful life. Additionally, maintaining your patio can help to enhance your overall enjoyment of it through the years. Contact G & G Concrete & Construction for a stamped concrete patio quote today!
