Imprinted concrete: what it is, advantages, moulds, colours and price

The application of imprinted concrete varies depending on the surface to be coated. The application of imprinted pavement, both interior and exterior, is carried out in a certain way; while the application of vertical imprinted concrete is executed in a different way. Inthis page we explain the step by step of each one of them.

The application of imprinted concrete varies depending on the surface to be coated. The application of imprinted pavement, both interior and exterior, is carried out in a certain way; while the application of vertical imprinted concrete is executed in a different way. On this page, we explain the step by step of each one of them.

It's not a coincidence that more and more people are opting for imprinted concrete in swimming pools due to its non-slip condition. One of the most advisable options to cover both the edge of the pool and the surroundings and prevent falls. As long as it is used, of course, a varnish that gives it this finish.

Additionally, aesthetically it is more eye-catching as the imprinted pavement is capable of imitating stone or wood, among other noble materials.

Impermeability is one of the peculiarities of imprinted concrete pavements, so it can be applied in areas exposed to rain as it does not let water pass, thus avoiding leaks and related problems. A quality for which imprinted concrete pools are on the rise. However, it is very important to apply a varnish that gives it this property.

The price of imprinted concrete depends on multiple factors. From the quality of the materials used or the imprinted concrete moulds, to the chosen colours, labour and the complexity of the work to be done. But also from the textures and final finishes. In this way, the price per square metre of imprinted concrete varies greatly depending on these elements. Approximately, in Spain the cost per m2 is between 40 and 100 euros.

The resistance and durability are two characteristics shared by imprinted concrete and polished concrete. Both are ideal pavements for high traffic surfaces due to their great resistance and unalterability to extreme temperature changes. Depending on the use, the surface to be covered and the particular needs of each person, it is more advisable to use one type of concrete or another. These are the main differences between imprinted pavement and polished pavement:

1. In the print, moulds are used to stamp different drawings and textures on the surface, so the shapes that have been applied with these moulds are found in the surface layer of the stamped concrete. On the contrary, the surface layer of polished concrete is completely smooth and continuous as no moulds are used.
2. The thickness of the polished concrete layer is slightly greater than that of the imprinted concrete.
3. Polished concrete is a material with high demand for interior surfaces, especially in private homes. On the other hand, we find imprinted concrete pavements both outdoors and indoors and even vertical imprinted concrete on walls, facades or walls.
4. The finishing techniques are completely different. While imprinted pavement has a finish with relief and textures, polished concrete offers a much smoother finish without textures as it does not require moulds.

Although it is not usual, because the use of imprinted concrete is more widespread in outdoor surfaces, it can also be used without problems indoors in two ways. The first, as pavement; and the second on facades, walls or partitions.

If over time you get tired of the imprinted concrete, you will be able to remove it without problems. The most practical way is to use the existing surface as concrete pavement and put whatever you want on top. For example, you can place cobblestones, stoneware, slab, tile or microcement, among others.

Another way to remove imprinted concrete, although somewhat cruder and mainly used in large works, is to destroy the surface with a compressor hammer or drill.

The duration of an imprinted concrete installation depends on multiple factors: square metres to be covered, the finishes that are sought to be achieved, the surface on which the stamped concrete is to be poured or the degree of inclination of said surface, as it is necessary to level it. Taking into account all these elements, the installation of an imprinted concrete floor can last approximately one week.

The imprinted concrete does not require thorough cleaning, although it depends on the degree of dirt on the pavement or vertical surface. In principle, it will be enough to clean the surface every 3 months. We recommend using our detergent cleaner for this. Ecoclean Pro . Rinse off next with high-pressure water.

The maintenance of imprinted concrete is not very complex, as it is a very resistant type of coating whose durability can even exceed 20 years. In the event that over time the imprinted pavement has lost some colour or the cement begins to become noticeable, it is advisable to apply a resin mixed with the pigment of the ground.

Although this is the most used option, we as specialists recommend applying Covercem® Stone. An aesthetic renovation mortar with a very natural look that is ideal for renewing concrete that has lost its old colour or some hardness. In addition, it offers greater resistance than applying only a resin.

Cracks or fissures in imprinted concrete can appear for various reasons. From an excess load on the ground, a poorly placed steel mesh or the absence of it, to the deficient compaction of the ground before concreting, among others.

Next, we explain the step by step to repair a crack or fissure in the imprinted concrete:

1. Deep clean the area of the pavement or vertical wall that needs to be repaired, with special emphasis on the inside of the crack or crevice. If necessary, vacuum the dust that may have accumulated inside it.
2. Generously fill the fissure or crack with a repair putty for concretes. This can be flexible (acrylic or polyurethane putty) or cementitious. If necessary, open the crack well to allow the entry of the repair product.
3. The time has come to renew the surface finish of the imprinted concrete. To do this, apply Covercem® Stone or Covercem® Monocrom in the colour we want.
4. In the case of using Covercem® Monocrom, it is necessary to previously carry out a stripping of the surface with our Ecoclean Stripper. Afterwards, the pavement will need to be cleaned with pressurised water.
5. When the Covercem® is completely dry, immediately apply the Sealcem® WT or Sealcem® DSV sealers depending on the desired shine or finish.

Although stamped concrete is a very resistant continuous decorative pavement, over time there can be a loss of colour or shine in its finishes due to erosion, rain, sun or misuse of it.

A problem that has an easy solution. Next, we explain how to restore the colour or shine of the imprinted concrete:

1. Clean the area you want to renew the imprinted concrete well. For this, the use of the Ecoclean Pro detergent cleaner is recommended, following the instructions given above.
2. Once the floor or wall are completely dry, apply the Sealcem WT T or Sealcem DSV sealers depending on the desired shine or finish. At least two coats of the chosen sealer will be applied. Specifically for the Sealcem® WT varnish, it can be pigmented with our range of Arcocem® colourants.

The last step of the decorative technique of imprinted concrete consists of the application of a varnish. A fundamental product that will not only protect the new coating from impacts and weather conditions, but will prolong its good appearance.

A varnish that, on some occasions, enhances the colour of the floor or vertical wall while increasing its resistances. As a general rule, this resin is applied every two or three years. The purpose is none other than to recover the lost shine over the years and reinforce the resistances.

At Topciment, we have developed a specific line of varnishes called Sealcem®. On this page we explain how to varnish stamped concrete, step by step.

As imprinted concrete is a textured surface, to remove the sealer or varnish from the surface it is necessary to strip it. To do this, use our Ecoclean Stripper product. The steps to follow are:

1. Firstly, the imprinted concrete coating must be stripped to leave it in the best possible conditions. With a roller or brush apply our Ecoclean Stripper gel stripper until the surface is well covered.
2. When the surface is perfectly stripped, it will be completely covered with plastic for 1 hour. This period must be guaranteed to prevent the stripper from drying out and to promote its deep action.
3. Once the plastic is removed, the surface will be cleaned with pressurised water.
4. After checking that the imprinted concrete is dry, it's time to seal the surface again with our Sealcem® WT or Sealcem® DSV varnishes or with our range of Covercem® products.

Improper use of imprinted concrete can cause significant deterioration over time. In the event that substantial repair is needed, this is the protocol to follow:

1. Clean the area to be repaired well. It is recommended to use the Ecoclean Pro or Ecoclean Construction detergent cleaner. Depending on the degree and type of existing dirt, use one or the other. Let the specialised cleaner act between 5 and 15 minutes. Brush afterwards with a bristle brush and then rinse with pressurised water.
2. When the surface is completely dry, it will be time to repair the imprinted concrete. We recommend Covercem® Stone mortar in the chosen colour. Apply two coats, allowing a drying time of between 4 and 8 hours between each coat, covering the surface well. Allow to dry for between 24 and 48 hours after applying the second coat.
3. In the case of wanting a finer finish, it would be necessary to apply the mineral consolidants Covercem® Monocrom or Covercem® Restaura to repair the damaged imprinted concrete. Previously, we would strip the floor with our Ecoclean Stripper. After cleaning the surface with water, we would proceed to coat the surface with two coats of Covercem®. Allow to dry for 2 hours between each coat, 24 hours after the second coat and just before applying the sealer.
4. Once the Covercem® Stone, Covercem® Monocrom or Covercem® Restaura is dry, apply the Sealcem® WT or Sealcem® DSV sealers next, depending on the desired shine or finish.
5. If in addition to repairing the imprinted concrete you are looking to provide a waterproof character to the coating, apply two coats of Covercem® Xtrem. Allow to dry between 4 and 8 hours between coats. Then, polish. This mineral consolidant, ideal for polishing, will improve the surface protection against water and atmospheric agents.

In the case of a deteriorated stamped concrete coating and lack of colour, painting it may be the best solution for it to look like the first day again. It is very important to assess the damage to get the right treatment.

If for example the imprinted pavement or wall has only discoloured or you want to change the colour for whatever reasons, we recommend two methods for painting the imprinted concrete. Use our Sealcem® DSV Colour paint or our Arcocem® pigments and pigment pastes.

Now, if in addition to the loss of colour the surface shows greater damage and therefore requires repair, the method would be very different. In this particular case, the Covercem® family would have to be used. These are mineral consolidating coatings that not only remedy the defects of the imprinted concrete floor or facade, but also give it colour to thus recover the vigour of the initial stamped concrete.