Highlights
A stamped concrete overlay is an easy way to upgrade your existing concrete.
It typically costs between $3 and $5 per square foot for stamped concrete overlay.
Benefits include its appearance, ease of installation, durability, and increase in home value.
This project is best left to a professional stamped concrete professional.
When a concrete walkway, patio or steps have structurally deteriorated, you’ll need to replace it. But if the concrete is still structurally sound—but just needs a little TLC—a stamped concrete overlay can transform the area and bring life to your hardscape. With various patterns, colors, and textures, it's easy to find something that matches your style and complements your existing landscape. Here’s what to know about stamped concrete overlays, including its various uses, cost, pros, and cons.
What Is a Stamped Concrete Overlay?
A stamped concrete overlay is a specifically designed and fortified mixture that, when professionally installed, becomes an integral part of the existing concrete structure.
Preparation involves cleaning the existing concrete and using bonding agents to ensure proper adhesion between the existing concrete and the new concrete overlay. Once the overlay has cured, a UV protective sealer with grip to assist in traction is applied over the entire area.
What Is the Difference Between Concrete Stamping and Stamped Concrete Overlays?
Stamped concrete refers to newly poured concrete that has been textured with stamping, while a stamped concrete overlay is poured over the top of an existing concrete slab and stamped. An overlay is more affordable than breaking up an existing concrete slab and pouring an entirely new one with texture, so many homeowners with existing concrete will opt for this option to upgrade it.
How Much Does a Stamped Concrete Overlay Cost?
The cost of concrete resurfacing for an overlay patio is between $3 to $5 per square foot, but the more intricate and detailed your stamping pattern, the more it can cost (sometimes up to $20 per square foot). For comparison, concrete demolition and removal costs $2 to $6 per square foot and a new plain, poured concrete patio costs another $4 to $8 per square foot.
Stamped Concrete Overlay Pros and Cons
Before getting your heart set on a new stamped concrete overlay, there are a few benefits and drawbacks to consider.
Pros
The main benefits of a stamped concrete patio include its appearance, ease of installation, durability, and increase in home value.
Appearance: You can choose from a wide variety of colors, stains, and textures for your stamped concrete to match your house, patio furniture, and outdoor decor.
Ease of Installation: With an overlay there is no mess from removing concrete with jack-hammers or the noise associated with demolition. A typical overlay project can be performed by a stamped concrete contractor from start to finish in two days.
Durability: Stamped concrete patios and walkways last around 25 years on average.
Increase in Home Value: If you list your home to sell in the future, you can account for the cost of the stamped concrete in your sale price.
Cons
Requires Hiring a Professional: Stamping concrete is a complex task best left to the professionals, so you will likely need to vet and hire a stamped concrete contractor.
Dries Quickly: A stamped concrete overlay is thinner than a new concrete slab, so it dries much faster. This means there is little room for error and little time to make repairs once the concrete starts to set.
Maintenance: Stamped concrete needs to be sealed every couple of years, so plan for that additional cost and work over the long term.
Can a Stamped Concrete Overlay Be Repaired?
Yes, usually if your concrete develops minor cracks, a concrete repair company can likely fix them. However, if you decide to hire a pro, be sure to avoid a concrete repair scam by vetting multiple contractors, and don’t pay for the total project upfront.
