IF you thought that creating an attractive walkway of stone or brick pavers was something you could not afford. Or maybe you just didn't want to deal with the inevitable weeds growing up between them. Stamped concrete may just be the answer you are looking for.

This process will give you a high-durability, low-cost alternative to those expensive traditional surface treatments for walkways, patios, and driveways. The technique is surprisingly simple. Stamped concrete involves pouring in the traditional manner, finishing the surface as usual, and then treating it with a hardener. It is then colored to the customer's desire and stamped with molds that imprint virtually any surface texture imaginable.

Brick pavers, stone, tiles, slate, flagstone... almost any traditional surface treatment can be reproduced in stamped concrete. In addition to walkways, it's also ideal for patios, porches, pool decks and driveways. Since it is poured as a whole, it can be completed much faster than traditional bricks or pavers. Because it consists of one solid surface, no weeds grow as happens with individually installed pavers. It's also stronger than regular concrete. The hardener brings the stamped concrete's surface strength up to 8,000 psi: almost triple the tensile strength of regular concrete. Maintenance consists of resealing every five years or so.

Copyright 2005 Delmar Germyn. All rights reserved.