Did you know that concrete can be used to create beautiful pathways and walkways? Decorative concrete should be at the top of your list for all DIY outdoor patio projects. Decorative concrete comes in many colors and designs; in fact, it is one of the most used products by home owners, home contractors, and concrete contractors. Prior to choosing the appropriate stamped concrete, you should consider the associated maintenance schedule and costs.

In order to help you choose the concrete solution that best matches your needs, we have gathered a few maintenance tips that can be used on both decorative concrete and stamped concrete.

1. Concrete contractors recommend resealing stamped and colored concrete every two to three years. You should allocate five gallons of sealer per 1,000 square feet of colored, stamped, or decorated concrete.
2. Thoroughly clean the concrete surface prior to adding any new sealing elements. Dish soap and a garden hose should do the trick for any concrete surface. However, for particularly dirty concrete areas, use a stiff broom to help scrub away all of the excess dirt and debris.
3. Once your decorated concrete has dried, you will be able to use a combination of sealer and anti-skid materials on the surface. Many concrete contractors recommend mixing one jar of anti-skid material per five-gallon pail of sealant. This combination should create the perfect mixture to keep your decorated concrete protected for the next two to three years.
4. After applying the first coat of anti-skid and sealer mixture, be sure to keep the concrete area clear of debris. Once the first coat is dry, apply a second coat. It is important to note that a one-inch nap roller is the recommended applicator; it will allow you to apply nice, even coats.
5. Enjoy your beautiful concrete patio, walkway, hallway, and other outdoor areas for years to come! This will allow you to appreciate the value and outcome of your concrete project, and to anticipate future maintenance needs.

As you can see, decorative concrete is not only easy to maintain, but it is also a relatively inexpensive product that provides beautiful results. With these new attributes, stamped and colored decorative concrete is fast becoming the product of choice by concrete contractors, home owners, and DIY enthusiasts around the globe.

Sources: http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete-patio/maintenance.htm, http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/decorative/