concrete stamping vs concrete painting

[Suzi]

Hubby and I are beginning to consider improvements to our new home. I have read as much as I can on this blog about choices for walkways and driveways. The bricked driveways are lovely but I read very costly. Can people share their thoughts on prices and upkeep of concrete stamping and painting. I like the look of the stamping but there is very little written on the blog about cost or upkeep and also companies that they would recommend. Do landscape people do this?

[tippyclubb]

We have stamped concert on our patio up north and love it. Once a year we have it resealed with Diamond Coat so it will keep the sheen and color. Cost is $200. Other than that its very low maintenance. It's also beautiful!

By the way I notice your from the UP of Michigan. We have a summer cabin in Cheboygan. Love it up north.

[TNLAKEPANDA]

Also interested in info on stamping and coating. Not sure it is actual stamping since that has to be done when the concrete is poured.

[Bonanza]

To have stamped concrete or "Bomanite" -- the copyrighted trade name for the original (I believe) stamped concrete, is indestructible. However, you would have to remove your driveway and front walk and start from scratch. No, landscapers do not do this. No sense paying them to sub it out.

I believe there is also a process that is done which is a veneer over your existing concrete, but I would never trust it to hold up. Concrete patched over concrete (that is essentially what it is) will eventually start to chip off, particularly where your grass meeets the concrete and edging is done and also where the concrete is scored, just from the normal wear of your car going in and out, as an example.

If you're looking for something inexpensive, comparing it to other choices, just to change the color of plain 'ole concrete, you might consider a concrete stain. This, too, should be done by a professional because it isn't just a simple paint job. It involves acid washing, applying the stain and sealing.

Last but not least, talk to neighbors whose driveway you like. Good luck in making your decision.