Stamped & Decorative Concrete
Get the elegant look of stone, brick, or tile at a fraction of the cost with decorative concrete.
What is Stamped and Decorative Concrete
Stamped concrete uses special mats and tools to create patterns and textures that mimic natural stone, slate, brick, wood, and other materials. The process involves pressing pattern mats into freshly poured concrete before it hardens completely. Combined with integral color or surface colorants, stamped concrete delivers stunning results that rival much more expensive materials.
Decorative concrete includes more than just stamping. We can add color throughout the concrete mix or apply color hardeners to the surface. Exposed aggregate finishes reveal beautiful stones within the concrete. Acid staining creates unique mottled patterns and earth tones. These techniques work alone or in combination to create custom looks that match your home's style and your personal taste.
At Marblecrest Burien Concrete, we have invested in professional-grade stamping tools, color systems, and finishing equipment. Our crew knows how to work quickly and precisely during the narrow window when concrete is workable but firm enough to hold patterns. This expertise makes the difference between amateur-looking results and professional finishes that add real value to your property.
Popular Patterns and Colors
The range of available patterns continues to grow as manufacturers develop new stamp designs. Natural stone patterns remain the most popular choice, offering the look of flagstone, slate, or cobblestone without the high cost and maintenance of real stone. Brick and tile patterns suit traditional home styles. Wood plank patterns create surprising realism for rustic or contemporary designs.
Pattern Options for Your Project
We maintain an extensive library of pattern options you can review during the design phase. Larger random patterns suit spacious areas like patios and driveways. Smaller geometric patterns work well for walkways and borders. You can also combine patterns with borders and accent strips to create truly custom designs. During your consultation, we show you samples and photos of completed projects to help you visualize the possibilities.
- Ashlar slate and natural flagstone patterns
- Cobblestone and European fan designs
- Running bond brick and herringbone layouts
- Wood plank and timber textures
- Seamless stone and custom patterns
Color Selection and Combinations
Color transforms plain concrete into something special. Earth tones like tan, brown, and terra cotta remain popular because they complement most homes and landscapes. Grays and charcoals create modern, sophisticated looks. You can choose single colors or multiple color combinations that add depth and realism. Color hardeners provide durable surface color, while integral color runs throughout the concrete thickness. We help you select colors that work with your home's exterior, surrounding landscaping, and personal preferences.
Applications and Benefits
Stamped and decorative concrete works beautifully for nearly any concrete application. We install decorative concrete for driveways, patios, pool decks, walkways, entryways, and interior floors. Each application benefits from concrete's durability combined with enhanced visual appeal. The same concrete that provides strength and longevity can also deliver the aesthetic impact you want.
Cost savings represent one major advantage of decorative concrete. Natural stone pavers or slate can cost two to three times more than stamped concrete that creates a similar look. Maintenance requirements stay minimal since you are still working with concrete. Unlike individual pavers that can shift, settle, or allow weeds to grow between joints, stamped concrete provides a solid, continuous surface.
Durability matches standard concrete when properly installed and maintained. The pattern exists only on the surface, but the structural integrity comes from the full slab thickness underneath. We build decorative concrete using the same base preparation and reinforcement as standard work. Applying a quality sealer protects the color and makes cleaning easier. With occasional resealing every few years, your decorative concrete maintains its beauty for decades.
Customization possibilities are nearly endless. Beyond patterns and colors, we can add borders, bands of contrasting colors, or logos and designs. Decorative concrete can integrate with standard concrete or existing driveways to create zones and visual interest. The ability to match or complement other materials on your property gives you design flexibility that few other options provide.