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How do I Use Ashlar Concrete Stamps?

Concrete is a durable building material that is used for both indoor and outdoor applications. While standard concrete can be a bit bland, there are plenty of techniques that you can use to create an interesting and beautiful look with concrete. Using ashlar concrete stamps can, for example, create the look of cobblestone, tile and other textures. In order to use an ashlar concrete stamp, you must have already formed and poured your concrete slab and created a light finish on the surface with a bull float.

Things You'll Need

  • Dust mask
  • Concrete release powder
  • Push broom
  • Hose
  • Solvent-based concrete sealer
  • Sealer sprayer or roller
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a dust mask over your face, then spread the concrete release powder liberally over the surface of the concrete slab. Grab handfuls of the release powder and throw it over the slab until the entire area is covered.

    • 2

      Place the ashlar concrete stamp at one corner of the slab, lining up all edges. Press the stamp down into the soft concrete slab surface, applying even pressure all the way around the stamp. Lift the stamp upward and remove it from the surface of the concrete slab.

    • 3

      Move the ashlar concrete stamp to the side, matching the edge of the stamp with the edge of the stamped design that you just completed. Place the stamp evenly on the concrete surface and apply pressure as you push the stamp down. Lift the stamp up to remove it from the slab. Continue placing the stamp until the entire surface is stamped. Work quickly while the slab is still wet.

    • 4

      Allow the stamped slab to dry enough that you can walk on the ashlar stamped design.

    • 5

      Brush off the excess release agent from the surface of the concrete slab with a push broom. Rinse remaining release powder off with a hose.

    • 6

      Apply two coats of a solvent-based sealer to the surface of the stamped concrete. Use a sprayer or a roller to apply the sealant, following the instructions included with the product.

    • 7

      Allow the slab and sealant to dry completely before walking or driving on the surface.