So you’ve been hearing wonderful praises about stamped concrete. You’ve probably heard from friends how nice it looks, how easy it is to clean, and how durable it is given our fluctuating temperature in different seasons. Now you are thinking about having one installed.
Hold your horses! Before you ditch your old and weed-infested Zia yard for a a new patio, it’s best to check the pros and cons to see if it's the right fit for your digs in Duke City.
- Climate and Temperature: Being a Burqueño or Burqueña, you sure know the legendary 310 days of sunshine we have in this high desert climate. Though Albuquerque sits 5,000 above sea level and enjoys cooler weather than other low-lying areas, the temperature in summer can still reach up to mid-90s(°F) high. On the other hand, our winters are mild. The problem is when we have dips below freezing temperature that result in freeze-thaw, that is the main reason for cracks. This unique geography and climate are important factors to consider when choosing the materials for your home.
- The Allure of Stamped Concrete: Let’s circle back to your earlier decision to have stamped concrete. With it, you can have your cake and eat it too! You can have stable and even flooring with concrete. But it doesn’t end there. You can have it look like flagstone or cobblestone that is weed-free (hallelujah!). You can even choose to make it look like wood. Can you imagine having Old Town Albuquerque’s brickwork at home? With a whole smorgasbord of patterns, textures, and colors to pick from, you can truly customize your home.
- Permits and HOA Regulations: Before you get too excited and start digging your yard, it is best to check with the City of Albuquerque if this work requires a permit. A permit might in fact be required if your project could impact the drainage. It also applies in instances when the dimensions are characterized as ‘excessive in extent.’ Since you are already at it, you might as well check for any Homeowner’s Association (HOA) regulations that may apply to your area.
- Understanding Our Soil: It is no secret that the type of soil beneath your Albuquerque stamped concrete affects its longevity. Albuquerque's soil can vary depending on location. While some areas have sandy washes, other parts have clay and saturates easily. Shifting the pressure in clay soil can make waves, leaving concrete prone to cracking. By knowing the specific soil type, the stamped concrete can be built on the right “sub-base” with optimal drainage, preventing future cracking.
To know your type of soil, we will study the terrain at your kit-building site. We at Albuquerque Concrete Experts want to ensure your house is
Beyond looking nice, this type of flooring comes with many other benefits.
- Built to Withstand the Freeze-Thaw: We have our fair share of freeze-thaw cycles and concrete cracking is a real concern. The good news is, stamped concrete is more durable than traditional concrete. It has more flexibility that prevents cracking when concrete expands and contracts when the temperature changes. With that in mind, you can stop worrying about our patio. It will look great when you host a summer carne asada party and be ready for some fire pit action during crisp winter nights.
- Low Maintenance: You have numerous obligations and places to be. You can’t be expected to spend more time than necessary cleaning your patio. Need to cheer on the Lobos at The Pit? How about exploring the Petroglyph National Monument? Or go hiking the trails of the Sandia Foothills? With its minimal care and cleaning requirements, you’ll have more time to do what you got to do. You can be where you need to be. Unlike wood decks that require constant staining and sealing or flagstone patios prone to weed growth, stamped concrete requires minimal upkeep. A simple hose-down and occasional resealing are all it takes to keep your deck or patio looking beautiful for years to come.
- Durability You Can Trust: It’s not just about a seasonal change in lighting and scenery that makes Albuquerque enchanting. It’s about the people, their spirit, and the things they build. Stamped concrete embodies all of this. When installed properly, it is a very durable surface. It can last decades with relatively little wear and tear. That translates into long-term value for your Albuquerque home. You can enjoy that patio for many years and perhaps bring future generations of Balloon Fiesta lovers to your house!
- Curb Appeal: Let's be honest. You know, as much as we do, that curb appeal is the thing in Albuquerque. Stamped concrete is beautiful, adding a classy, polished look to the exterior of your home. Whether you like your home to have a creme-colored exterior or find the ’70s-style red brick patio better, stamped concrete can deliver. No matter where you live, whether you reside in a charming bungalow in Northeast Heights or a stylish condo in Nob Hill, a gorgeous outdoor space can really increase your property value. Plus, you’ll be proud of how amazing your home looks. Think of that patio matching your bougainvillea trailing down the stucco of your adobe wall. Picture perfect!
- Unleash Your Creativity: Albuquerque is a City of Creatives at heart. We can see that in the colorful murals in Barelas and the blend of mid-century and contemporary architecture. Stamped concrete is a project that frees your inner designer. With it, you can create a completely unique outdoor space. Would you like a patio that looks like New Mexico flagstone with a dash of desert rose coloring? No problem. How about a Tuscan-inspired courtyard with a tumbled stone appearance? Stamped concrete can bring it to life.
Now, let's be transparent. Stamped concrete isn't perfect for every Albuquerque homeowner. Here are some things to consider:
- Initial Cost: Although the installation of stamped concrete adds value over time, initially it is relatively more expensive than regular concrete. But, keep in mind that you are investing in a low-maintenance outdoor space that adds value to your home. With it, you can save on repairs and replacements than if you use cheaper materials.
- Professional Installation Required: Stamped concrete is more akin to a remodel requiring a professional installation. Ideally from a local concrete contractor in Albuquerque, NM. It’s not like a weekend DIY, warrior-like, ‘Hey I can do this’ project. The aesthetics and mechanics make a difference in the design to endure and to last. Stamped and colored concrete is an art and takes an artist’s expertise and experience to execute. Though the designs are endless, different soil, landscapes, and climates make it even more important to consult an experienced installer.
- Potential for Cracking: Although less prone to cracking than traditional concrete, cracking may still happen. The good news is that, by following proper procedures and using high-quality materials the possibility of this happening is substantially reduced. We are familiar with the notion that ‘a chain is only as strong as its weakest link’ and that a good sub-base will guarantee future successes.
- Slippery When Wet: Safety first! Stamped concrete and other outdoor poured concrete are slippery when wet. Don’t worry. A decorative textured finish or a non-skid coating can solve this problem. These options can provide traction to your driveway or deck.
- Repairs Can Be Tricky: Let's face it, sometimes mishaps happen. Repairs of stamped concrete are more difficult than concrete, but it can be done. When cracks show, call in experts to assess any damage. They’d let you know the best way forward to keep your stamped concrete stable and looking good.
