Installing a stamped concrete patio over an old surface is a two part process.
Can you pour stamped concrete over existing concrete.
If the existing concrete is structurally sound is not heaving or settling then you can pour concrete over concrete.
For this to be feasible the contractor needs to pour at least 2 inches thick use smaller aggregate and incorporate reinforcement such as welded wire mesh or fiber mixed into the concrete.
If done properly new concrete can often be poured right over an existing slab.
You can if the concrete is sound solid with minor cracks pitting scaling surface damage or just plain ugly.
First you pour the new concrete then you press the stamps.
Diligent cleaning and preparation will produce a beautiful durable new patio surface.
Use the guidelines below to install a stamped concrete patio.
You need to start with a clean surface and ensure a proper bond to create a new concrete surface that lasts.
Here s the catch if the existing surface is somewhat in a structurally sound shape and elevating its height to a few inches won t be a problem you can certainly freshen it up with a new layer of concrete.
Pouring concrete over the existing one.
A stamped overlay offers all the aesthetic benefits of conventional stamped concrete but is applied over existing concrete.
Apply a bonding adhesive over the existing patio and a thin coat of bond release agent over the stamps so they don t stick to the concrete.
My rule of thumb is this.
If the new concrete is 3 inches thick or more you don t have to bond the new concrete to the old concrete.
If your patio driveway or other concrete slab is falling apart and losing its appeal then you need to give it a facelift.
When it s time to update your yard or landscape consider laying a stamped concrete patio over your existing patio if its surface is in good condition.
Pouring concrete over an existing concrete driveway or sidewalk.
The same principles as above apply to pouring concrete over an existing concrete driveway or sidewalk.
Stamped concrete overlays allow you to duplicate the beauty and texture of natural stone brick slate wood and other materials without having to replace your concrete.