The Guide to Driveway Stamping, Staining and Coloring

This guide will give you, the homeowner, some basic tips on selecting the best concrete driveway treatment method for you. Whether choosing a stamping, staining or coloring method, your new concrete driveway could make your journey up to your dwelling, well...just a little bit more stylish. Here's an overview of 3 methods, of which any will enhance the visual reflection of your dwelling tastes.

1. Driveway Stamping

If you like the look of a quality stone laid driveway without the expense, then the stamping method may be your best solution. Stamping involves imprinting the concrete before it is set to resemble the look of real stone. This is a time saver compared to utilizing real stone slabs because the concrete surface is treated instead of having several pieces set on top of the surface. The contractor saves time and you get the look you want.

2. Driveway Staining

For a look that resembles artistic marble, try the concrete staining method. The most popular hues of stain are natural looks to resemble gold/brown marble or emerald green. Using this type of method will produce a driveway that looks very dramatic and exotic. You may choose to isolate an area to stain like the steps where the walkway meets the driveway. Think of picking geometric shapes such as ovals, circles or squares for interest. Some homeowners favor the staining method for their interior concrete floors, going for a theatrical look that resembles the elegance of antique marble.

3. Driveway Coloring

Coloring your driveway is the easiest to undertake out of all 3 methods. You simply add coloring to the concrete mixture before adding the water. Follow through with your normal concrete layering procedures. [1]

Whichever method you choose, please continue to read the following tips before revamping your driveway.

1. Select the method and style you want BEFORE you seek a contractor.

You can most likely achieve your desired look, so make sure the contractor is experienced in the technique you seek.

2. Ask friends and neighbors for referrals.

Then check with the Better Business Bureau to see if the company has any registered complaints.

3. Gather up to 3 photos of looks you desire and show them to your prospective contractor.

Your final selection could depend on your budget and contractor's experience in the desired method of your choice. Consider selecting a stamping, staining and coloring choice, so that you have some options in each category. You may even want to try a custom design you create yourself.

4. Be present when the contractor is doing the work.

It is better to give feedback during the process, so that changes can be made if needed, then to complain about it later.

5. If you choose to do the work yourself, take a class first.

This undertaking is not for the novice, unless you have experience with working laying concrete in general. This work involves several processes that utilize different materials. For instance, in most methods you must prepare the concrete for the stain to successfully adhere to it. Before starting, make sure you seek the expert advice of a professional contractor. I ran across a great website called the Concrete Network. The website has some good ideas including photos, as well as tips for you to consider.

Concrete does not have to be boring. Take note when you see an impressive driveway. View whether it is stamped with a stone design, stained with earth-tones resembling marble or some other enhanced treatment. Does the color compliment the home and its surroundings? Next, picture the entire setting without the impact of the appealing concrete driveway. You may feel like me and realize that a tasteful driveway makes a huge difference in improving the overall setting of any home. And today, because of this realization, I have a new respect for the warm looks of cold concrete.

[1] http://www.hometips.com/install/garage_driveway/driveway_stampingstaining.html