Apply the Stateliness of Brick to Your Concrete

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Remember the infamous yellow brick road from the Wizard of Oz? If not, just go shop at your local IKEA store and you'll quickly remember. Brick has been used in building construction for thousands of years and is still a beloved product all around the world. If you want the appearance of brick without the cost of real bricks or brick pavers, how about applying a faux technique to your concrete?

You can accomplish this in three different ways: etching, stamping, or stenciling.

•  With the etching technique, the brick pattern is cut into existing concrete. However attractive this may be, it can be very labor intensive.

•  An easier and more affordable option is to use a stencil to stain or paint the brick pattern onto the surface. This method still requires patience and skillful artisanship, but is more forgiving of mistakes. Using a purchased stencil, carefully paint or stain your pattern onto the concrete.

• The third method is to stamp wet cement. You can purchase special stamps at a concrete supplier, pressing them into wet cement. Pigmentation can be mixed into the wet cement, or the color can be applied later on. This method can be a bit tricky, but a skilled contractor should have no problem creating a beautiful masterpiece out of your patio or walkway.

Before attempting any of these techniques on your concrete surface, make sure the concrete is properly prepared. If harmful residues are not removed before applying the new stains or paints, they can bubble and peel away shortly after application. Use an acid cleanser, blasting method, or chemical treatment to thoroughly clean the cement.

Cement is an invaluable material. It is durable, almost indestructible, and can be quite attractive with many of the finishing techniques available. Request free estimates from prescreened concrete contractors to bring the stateliness of stamped concrete to your home. 

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