Enhance an Existing Patio With Concrete Stamping

The Siscos are a newly married couple who recently bought their first home together. Between making wedding plans and their busy work schedules, household projects have been last on the to-do list. Janelle and Chris are looking for the inspiration to finally take on some of the bigger jobs.

Materials and Tools:

stamping kit (rental)
polymer resin (5 gallons)
thinset (50 lb. bucket)
stain sealer (5 gallons)
tinting agent
pressure washer (optional)
garden sprayer
gauge rake
bucket
broom
safety glasses
gloves

Steps:

1. First, make sure the surface you're applying the thinset onto is clear of debris. If sweeping doesn't get it thoroughly clean, use a power washer to clean all residue from the concrete porch.

2. Once the patio is dry, apply two coats of a "bond crete" polymer resin. This will allow the thinset to apply to the existing concrete.

3. Mix the thinset and apply a thin coat on the resin. Fill any expansion joints with thinset powder to help it adhere to the new layer. The thinset needs to be a uniform 1/4" thickness. This can be achieved by using a gauge rake. A gauge rake has adjustable pins which allow you to set the height.

4. Once you have an area level, use the stamp to make the imprint in the concrete.

Important: The stamp relief needs to be sprayed with a special coating so the thinset will not stick to the stamp.

5. Continue the process of thinset, spray, stamp, until the area is complete.

6. After the stamping is done and the thinset is dry, you may want to add some color. Both accent color and durability can be added to the stamps using some tinting agent, applied using a garden sprayer.

7. After coloring the concrete, you'll want to seal the surface against weather and wear damage. This is also a great opportunity to add some non-slip coating to help prevent falls. Mix the non-slip compound directly into the sealer, and apply the mixture using a paint roller.