A Guide to Stamped Concrete Driveways

A stamped concrete driveway offers many decorative options not possible with other paving materials. Using stamps combined with coloring agents, you can create cost-effective, realistic replicas of popular materials such as cobblestone, brick, natural slate, and flagstone.

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IS STAMPED CONCRETE GOOD FOR DRIVEWAYS?

There are many benefits to having your driveway paved with stamped concrete, including:

• Affordability: Gives you the look and feel of natural stone, brick or pavers for less money
• Durability: Stands up to weather and heavy traffic for years when sealed and maintained properly
• Versatility: Offers many pattern and color choices to make your driveway visually appealing

Get your driveway started: Find contractors specializing in stamped concrete near me.

Stamped concrete vs. pavers

Concrete pavers are individual pieces laid in a variety of patterns. Compared to stamped concrete, pavers are more labor-intensive because of their individual placement, susceptible to shifting over time, and allow weeds to grow through the joints. Stamped concrete can give you a similar look without these issues.

Stamped concrete vs. asphalt

Unlike concrete, asphalt does not have much ability to be customized. While it is designed to be strong like concrete, its maintenance is more involved. In recent years, the cost of the materials for asphalt has increased, making the cost of installation nearly the same. Stamped concrete, when properly sited, sealed and maintained can provide your driveway a longer lasting, more attractive surface.

Need more information to decide which material is right for your driveway? Compare asphalt vs. concrete driveways.

DRIVEWAY STAMPED CONCRETE PATTERNS

There are many stamped concrete patterns available today. Below are some of the more popular options used on driveways.

STAMPED CONCRETE COLORS FOR YOUR DRIVEWAY

Contractors can also customize the color of your driveway to complement your home and landscape. Here are some other ideas for tailoring the look of a stamped concrete driveway to suit your design and budget requirements.

There are a variety of color palettes and methods that a contractor can use for your design ideas. Color palettes can range from earth tones, to shades of grey, to multi-colored. Each brings its own look that will elevate your curb appeal.

STAMPED DRIVEWAY COST

The cost of stamped concrete can vary based on a number of factors. A basic stamped drive can cost between $8 - $12 per square foot. With the average U.S. driveway being 16’ x 40’ (or 640 sq ft), it would have a total cost range of $5,120 - $7,680.

The factors that could increase the cost of your stamped driveway are:

• Square footage
• The thickness of the concrete
• The design choices you make
• The condition of the site

DESIGN IDEAS FOR YOUR DRIVEWAY

• Use borders and bands in contrasting colors and patterns to add decorative interest.
• If you simply want to give your driveway a stone-like texture rather than a clearly defined pattern, use seamless texture skins to impart the look of natural rough-cut stone.
• Instead of using stamped concrete for the entire driveway, install stamped borders combined with fields of exposed aggregate or broom-finished concrete. This combination is very appealing yet more affordable because of the savings in labor and material costs.
• Even if you have an existing concrete driveway, it’s possible to give it pattern and color by resurfacing it with a stamped concrete overlay.
• For the greatest curb appeal, choose patterns and colors that complement the architectural style of your home.
• Stamped concrete benefits from added color because it can make the pattern look more realistic. But you don't have to do a lot to make a big impact. Save money by using just one primary color with some antiquing accents rather than applying multiple layers of color.

See these stamped concrete driveway projects: