Stamped Concrete Patios, Decorative patios and Exotic Concrete patios,

Stamped Concrete Patios, Decorative patios and Exotic Concrete patios,: "Stamped concrete is concrete that is patterned to resemble brick, slate, flagstone, stone, tile-
and even wood. In this section you will see how stamped concrete can be used to beautify pool
decks, driveways, entries and courtyards, and patios.

Due to the wide array of patterns and colors available, and the cost of stamped concrete in
relation to the materials stamped concrete is a substitute for, the choice of stamped concrete is
becoming more popular and frequent.

Colors and patterns for stamped concrete are often chosen to blend with other stone or tile
elements at the residence. Complex designs incorporating steps, courtyards, and fountains can
be achieved. Stamped concrete can also be blended with other decorative concrete elements
such as exposed aggregate finishes and acid-etch and engraved stained flooring.

Many homeowners don�t realize that a stamped concrete patio is a viable option � and one that
costs less than other patio materials.

�People don�t know anything about it. Then they see stamped concrete in a magazine and they
have to have it.�

�Juan Torres, AAA Affordable Contractors

A form of today�s stamped concrete was originated on the West coast back in the 1960s. The
stamp concrete tools back then were made of metal and resembled cookie cutters. They
produced a pattern, but did not provide any texture.

Today�s tools are rigid mats made of polyurethane that produce authentic textured patterns of
stone, brick and even wood planking and fossilized sea-life. When stamped concrete is installed
by experienced craftsmen, brick masons with 30 years of experience can�t tell the difference
between stam"