When will the installation start?

Date & time of the installation depends on work load when the booking is placed but normally it will be between one week and eight weeks.

How long will it take to carry out the job?

Dependent upon size of the driveway/patio it normally takes between 4 and 5 days. We only leave your job if weather conditions become extreme.

Does the  weather affect the installation? 

We are very used to working in bad weather conditions, however if the conditions prevent us from continuing for a day or two we will keep you informed of any new schedules. We are able to cope with most conditions, however severe cold/frost and rain will interrupt proceedings. Please note on imprinting day if there is heavy rain or heavy rain forecast we will not print on that day. An alternative day will be arranged (usually the day after).

To what depth do you dig out?

This depends on the ground conditions we come across. On a domestic driveway, we will excavate to a minimum of 200 mm. We will dig deeper if required to do so due to the condition of the ground.

What will be the depth of the concrete?

On a domestic driveway,100 mm of fiber in reinforced, air entrained concrete is laid a minimum of 75 mm on patios & pathways. Commercial installations and driveways with very heavy vehicles can require 150 mm.

What about access to my home once the imprinted concrete has been laid?

When planning installation access is one of the primary considerations. Even though the imprinted concrete can be walked on the next day we aim to keep the inconvenience to a minimum. There are a number of options available, including the temporary removal of the neighbour’s fence panel or using planks which would be set up securely between the doorway & a firm piece of ground. There is always a solution!

What about maintenance for the Pattern Imprinted Concrete? 

Nothing in life is totally maintenance free but as far as paving is concerned our Patterned Imprint Concrete is as good as it gets. The colour hardeners dramatically reduce the effects of wear through usage. The solvent based acrylic lacquer does not allow the growth of moss or algae and it also prevents the ingress of dirt and stains. It can be power-washed if extremely dirty, however the occasional sweep off or rinse with a detergent is the most it will require. The key to keeping your stamped concrete in good condition is to get it cleaned and resealed occasionally. The frequency of this depends mainly on the type of use it gets but as an average anywhere between 2 and 3 years is the norm for a patterned imprinted concrete driveway. Patios usually don’t need doing as frequently.

Once the drive or patio is laid how long do I have to stay off it?

The stamped concrete will be set sufficiently by the following morning for it to be walked on. For a driveway it needs 5 days curing time to take the weight of a domestic car, by which time we should have the paving sealed & protected.

What about any drainage for the new driveway?

All necessary drainage requirements are assessed at the initial design stage and then reassessed during construction. All drainage will comply with regulations and also take into account possible effects of severe rainfall episodes.

Can I see examples of your work before I go ahead?

We will be more than happy to offer you a list of completed pattern imprinted concrete projects in your area as well as a portfolio of pictures and references. Also please visit our gallery here.

How long does the acrylic sealant last?

For an average driveway or would needs renewing between 2 and 3 years depending on wear and tear. A new coat of sealant restores the stamped concrete surface to virtually a new state in most cases. It also helps to maintain it’s ability to repel dirt and oil.

How do I know when the concrete needs resealing?

If the surface is starting to get some algae growing or is starting to look a bit pale (but the colour looks fine when wet) then it could do with a clean and reseal. If in doubt give us a call on; 07598705865 and we will call by to check it over.

Why are movement joins required?

Movement joints are cut in at regular intervals as recommended by British Standards. They are cut to a depth of 25% of the slab using a saw equipped with a diamond blade. If a slab is too large or irregularly shaped then it may be put under stress and as a result hairline cracks may form. Where possible the joints are disguised within the pattern to minimise their appearance and then filled with a mastic to prevent weeds.

Are there any do’s and don’ts with my new Decorative Concrete Paving?

Excessive use of rock salt to deice the surface may cause spalling of the concrete. If the deicing product is required there are non-corrosive products available. The use of curtain solvents may affect the sealant and require professional attention. We recommend Enviro Thaw which is 95% less corrosive than rock salt.

Is it necessary to have a skip outside my house?

We usually use a grab wagon to remove the rubbish, if a skip is used it is generally gone on the same day.

Is Pattern Imprinted Concrete Paving more expensive than other products?

Pattern imprinted concrete is equivalent in price to good quality Tarmac, Block Paving or Indian Sandstone. When the lifespan and lack of maintenance is taken into account then it starts to be the most cost effective option.

How do I deal with accidental spillages on my paving surface?

For most spillages, including oil washing up liquid and water is fine.

Can the Imprinted Concrete crack?

The risk of cracking can never be completely ruled out with any type of concrete paving, however, the risk is greatly reduced by high installation specifications.

Is Pattern Imprinted Concrete slippery?

Generally patterned imprinted concrete has a textured finish; traction is furthermore aided by the application of the final sealant which included anti slip compound also known as rhino grip.