Stamped concrete, on a base built right.
Stamped and colored concrete driveways, patios and walkways, decorative overlays, and sealing for homes throughout Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area. Family-owned and licensed (CSLB #823077) since 1991.
Stamped concrete gives you the look of stone or brick with the strength of a poured slab. The pattern is what people notice; the base underneath is what makes it last. We do both with our own crews — no subcontractors.
- Stamped driveways, patios and walkways
- Integral and surface color
- Decorative borders and bands
- Decorative overlays on sound existing slabs
- Rebar reinforcement only — never wire mesh
- Sealing
Overlays for slabs that are still sound.
Not every tired slab needs to be torn out. If existing concrete is structurally sound, a decorative overlay can add a stamped pattern and new color on top. If the slab is heaving or badly cracked, replacement is the better answer, and we'll tell you which one your project needs.
- Stamped texture and new color on existing concrete
- Less demolition than full replacement
- An honest assessment of whether the slab is sound
- Sealing for protection
What's involved
A stamped slab starts the same way as any concrete we pour: removal of old concrete if needed, a compacted subgrade, a full layer of compacted base rock, forms, and rebar. Once the concrete is placed, color is applied and the surface is pressed with stamp mats during the window when the concrete is workable. After curing, joints are in place and the surface is sealed.
- Base rock and compaction
- Rebar reinforcement
- Color and stamping while the concrete is workable
- Curing and sealing
Stamped, broom or colored?
Broom finish is the simplest and most slip-resistant option. Colored concrete adds tone without texture. Stamped concrete combines color with pattern for the most decorative result. Our article on stamped versus broom finish concrete walks through the trade-offs in more detail.
- Broom finish — simple and durable
- Colored — tone without pattern
- Stamped — color plus texture
Why stamped concrete cracks, and how prep helps
Expansive soil moving under the slab is the number one cause of concrete cracking in the Bay Area. Skipping or skimping on base rock is a common shortcut that causes problems later. A full compacted base, rebar set inside the slab, and control joints keep cracking small and controlled — which matters even more on a decorative surface.
- Full base rock layer — never skipped
- Rebar only, never wire mesh
- Control joints to guide hairline cracks
Sealing and care
Sealing is recommended for stamped concrete. A sealer helps protect color, resist stains and keep the texture looking crisp, and periodic resealing keeps it that way. Sweep regularly, clean spills promptly, and avoid harsh chemicals on the surface.
- Sealing for protection
- Reseal periodically
- Clean spills promptly
How the free estimate works.
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Call, text or send a request
Reach us at (925) 984-6883 or through the contact form. Estimates are free.
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Site visit
We come out, measure, look at any existing slab, and go over patterns and colors with you.
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Written estimate
You get a clear written estimate covering materials, scope and warranty — no pressure.
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Build and walkthrough
Our own crew handles the work start to finish, then walks the finished surface with you.
A·K serves homes throughout Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area, including Martinez, Walnut Creek, Danville, Alamo, Livermore, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Pleasanton and more.
Stamped concrete questions, answered.
Straight answers to common questions.
What is stamped concrete?
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Stamped concrete is poured concrete that is pressed with textured mats while it is still workable, so the finished surface takes on the look of stone, brick, slate or similar materials. Color is usually added to complete the look.
Where can stamped concrete be used?
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Driveways, patios and walkways are the most common. The same base preparation and rebar reinforcement go under a stamped slab as under any other concrete we pour.
Does stamped concrete need to be sealed?
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Yes. Sealing helps protect color and the stamped texture, and resealing periodically keeps it looking its best.
Can you stamp an existing slab?
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If the existing slab is structurally sound, a decorative overlay can add a stamped pattern and new color without a full tear-out.
Does stamped concrete crack?
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Any concrete can crack. In the Bay Area, expansive soil moving under the slab is the number one cause. Proper base rock, rebar and control joints keep cracking small and controlled.
Let's plan your project.
Contact us to discuss your project.