How long does stamped concrete last? Know What Prolongs or Shortens Lifespan of Concrete

Dubbed the “Duke City,” Albuquerque is located in the State of New Mexico, which is known for its stunning landscapes and rich culture. The city is also notorious for its scorching desert sun especially during summers where temperatures can get as high as 93°. Hence, if you are looking to improve your outdoor living space using stamped concrete, you might end up wondering how long this paver material will hold up against such intense heat here in New Mexico.

Let’s go into the particulars – whether or not it is a good idea to install stamped concrete in your Albuquerque property.

Looking for a dependable concrete contractor from Albuquerque? Get your free quote now for expert stamped concrete installation.

Versatile and gorgeous, stamped concrete are materials that imitate the appearance of natural resources - wood and natural stones. Stamps are pressed into fresh concrete to create distinct patterns while also creating a durable and customized surface. Most homeowners here in Albuquerque commonly use stamped concrete for their patios, driveways, and walkways – considering its long lifespan amid the climate conditions of Albuquerque.

Albuquerque’s unique climate characterized by desert-like scorching hot summers, mild winters, and low humidity, poses an actual challenge for any material. In particular, the intense UV rays of the sun can cause damage to structural surfaces over extended periods like fading and cracking. The rapid increase or decrease in temperature does not help. It may result in thermal expansion and contraction, putting stress on the concrete.

Add to that, the proximity of Albuquerque to the Rio Grande Valley, and the alkaline nature of the soil can affect certain types of materials, resulting in a state known as an alkali-aggregate reaction. This condition can lead to the deterioration and cracking of your paving.

While it is true that having a beautiful sunny weather condition is immaculate for outdoor experiences, the desert-like climate of Albuquerque can be troublesome too. It presents a unique challenge that can decrease the lifespan of your concrete and further its deterioration. To better understand how many years your paving will last, it is important to know the factors that affect its lifespan.

Favorable Factors 

Numerous factors can contribute to the durability of your stamped concrete in Albuquerque:

• Proper installation by experienced contractors: To understand the nuances of working with concrete in our desert climate, experienced Albuquerque contractors are needed. Our expert team understands the right mix and ratio that works well with your design in mind. They’ll create a solid base that can mitigate the effects of shifting clay or caliche to prevent instability. They’ll also make sure the concrete is properly cured so it gains full strength to carry heavy loads.
  
  
• First-rate concrete mix: Mixing first-rate concrete is better than settling on lower ones. It will be more resistant to cracking and deterioration - as the old adage says, “You get what you pay for!”
  
  
• Regular sealing: Applying a high-quality sealer can protect your stamped concrete versus the harsh heat of Albuquerque’s sun and moisture infiltration. Every few years, stamped concrete needs sealing – think of it as sunscreen for your concrete.
  
  
• Timely repairs: Appropriately address chips and cracks to prevent them from further damage.
  
  
• Shade for your structure: Due to Albuquerque’s intense heat, stamped concrete may suffer deterioration. Hence, providing shade for your structure, such as awnings, trees, or patios, can greatly extend the lifespan of your stamped concrete.  

Damaging Factors

While it is true that stamped concrete is a durable material, some factors can shorten its lifespan in Albuquerque:

• Poor drainage: Having poor drainage with standing water on it can weaken concrete, thus, resulting in cracking. It is important to install a proper drainage system around your stamped concrete surfaces. You can have slopes created to divert water away from concrete to thwart water pooling.
  
  
• Freeze-thaw cycles: Though we typically have mild winters in Albuquerque, there’s always a chance of below-zero dips. This can cause freeze-thaw cycles that can put concrete in stressful situations. Using concrete mix with air entrainment can help lessen this effect as it allows the concrete to breathe and expand and contract safely without cracking.
  
  
• Exposure to salt: De-icing salts on driveways and walkways can cause deterioration to your concrete. It is better to discuss with your local contractor other alternatives to de-icing methods.
  
  
• Heavy foot or vehicle traffic: Cracks and early wear and tear are commonly caused by excessive weights – either foot or vehicle. Having designated parking can mitigate this effect to minimize heavy traffic on your stamped surfaces.
  
  
• Chemical spills: Harmful chemicals, including oil, gasoline, or weed killers, can stain and damage your concrete. Be aware of what products you use around your stamped concrete.
  
  
• Tree roots: Stamped concrete may be damaged by tree roots growing too close to them, causing cracks and uneven surfaces. Be mindful of the type of trees you plant and their distance to your concrete installations.

A question our Company frequently gets asked is, "How long does stamped concrete last?" There is no exact value to this question because there are many factors that affect the lifespan of any structure.

Stamped concrete isn't going to last forever. But if it is installed properly and cared for, it should be useful for 50 years.

However, as mentioned earlier, the lifecycle of concrete depends on various influences, such as the quality of installation, its maintenance, and climate conditions. Outdoor conditions like intense sunlight, freeze-thaw cycles, and heavy traffic can lead to wear and tear. Unexpected issues, such as underground pipe breaks or tree roots, can also cause damage. While there's no exact value as to how long it will be useful, maintaining the concrete and working with a reputable contractor can help extend its durability and longevity while keeping it looking great for many years to come.

We streamlined some useful tips to get the most out of your stamped concrete. Follow these guidelines, and surely your investment will be worth it:

• Regular Concrete Cleaning: For regular cleaning, use only a mild detergent solution and avoid harsh chemicals. It is important to sweep away the dirt, leaves, and debris to avoid build-up and staining.
  
  
• Concrete Sealing: Do not skimp on this. Applying a high-quality sealer is essential to your stamped concrete patio and other home hardscapes. This is to protect them from harmful elements and prevent moisture penetration, fading, and staining.
  
  
• Repair Promptly: It is important to address cracks, chips, or stains on your concrete as soon as you notice them. Small repairs can prevent larger problems and costlier repairs down the line.
  
  
• Be Wary of Tree Planting: Plant trees or shrubs only at a considerable distance from your stamped concrete to prevent root damage.