If you’re thinking of redoing your patio area, living area, driveway or walkway with stamped concrete then it’s important to plan ahead. This is especially important if you need the project done by a certain time.
There’s a lot that can go into the planning of a stamped concrete project and there is always the potential that something delays the project. The project itself may only take a couple of days, but you should give yourself plenty of time to plan and prepare.
If you don’t mind waiting, then plan at your leisure, but if you want your project completed within a certain time frame it’s recommended to plan in advance. Let’s discuss why.
Reasons to plan and schedule your stamped concrete project in advance
For some projects, it takes a great deal of time to consider the best options. You may consider various designs, and colors and determine the project scale itself. You might want to meet with different contracts, collect bids and visit showrooms. Depending on availability, this could take a couple of days or several weeks.
Weather and temperature can postpone concrete projects and affect the project completion date. Adverse weather can cause project delays and can lead to longer curing and drying times. Sometimes projects need to be rescheduled due to rain. Attempting to pour concrete in the rain can lead to weakened concrete and scaling on the surface. Most stamped concrete contractors try their best to keep their appointments but sometimes adverse weather causes them to reschedule the project.
Planning ahead allows you to get your project on the calendar before anyone else. Spring is a very popular time for people to begin scheduling stamped concrete projects. Waiting too late in the year may cause you to miss your desired project completion date.
What to Expect During Stamped Concrete Project
Many people want to understand what the process will look like once a stamped concrete contractor comes out to complete the job.
The day of the project involves marking the areas, breaking up old concrete, preparing the area then of course pouring the concrete and stamping it. After the initial project is completed, the concrete will need to cure for at least a day or two. After it’s taken time to cure the surface will need to be pressure washed cleaned and then sealed. The stamped concrete is still not quite ready at this point. As it dries, you must be mindful not to place heavy objects or allow animals to walk on it. This will ensure the concrete dries correctly without damage.
Of course, this is the abbreviated version, but it gives you an idea of what to expect. In total, The project itself will take a couple of days, but then there is the waiting period for heavy use especially if it’s a driveway or somewhere where vehicles will drive.
Want to Start Planning your Stamped Concrete Project?
No matter what the season, you can start planning your stamped concrete project. You can start by researching what type of design you want, or scheduling a time to meet with a stamped concrete contractor. A local stamped concrete contractor will be able to answer any questions you have and guide you through the various options and designs available.
If you are in the Maryland area and want to start planning your project then give us a call. We can help you plan all the details of your project and answer any preliminary questions you have.