Get matched with top concrete finishing pros in Wrangell, AK

In most cases, you are good to stamp the concrete one or two hours after you pour it, but perform the thumb test mentioned above. You want the concrete to be dry enough so the stamps don’t sink, but wet enough that the stamps make a successful imprint. In general, this is a tricky question, as it also depends on the weather outside, the time of day, and the size of the poured concrete slab.

Many concrete companies that handle installing concrete slabs or standard concrete patios can also install stamped concrete, but you can also hire a company that specializes in stamped concrete. These textured concrete surfaces take some finesse to get right, and choosing a company that concentrates on stamped concrete patios and walkways is a good way to ensure the finished product looks top-notch. Additionally, specialists in stamped concrete will likely have more texture options that suit your preferences, like riverstone, sandstone, yorkstone, and cobblestone.

Concrete resurfacing is the process of applying a new, thin layer of concrete over an existing concrete slab to give it a fresh appearance. The new layer is often between 1/4-inch and 1-inch thick, so it involves much less material than you’d need to pour a new slab, which is often 4 inches thick. Resurfacing also gives you the opportunity to add color or texture to your slab without totally replacing it.

Self-leveling compound usually requires up to 24 hours to dry before you can begin installing tile. It’s best to follow the instructions on the self-leveling product label for appropriate dry time. If you’re still not sure, play it safe and give the self-leveling compound two days to dry before you begin the tiling process.