Stamped concrete (also known as patterned or imprinted concrete), for instance, can be used on the interior or exterior of a home with entirely different looks. For the interior of the home, popular finishes include various types of tile, such as Saltillo, and even wood grain. For the exterior of the home, such as patios, walkways and outdoor kitchen and pool areas, stone, brick and flagstone finishes are popular choices. In addition to the patterns and designs available, there is a virtually endless color palette from which to choose. Contractors are able to combine colors creating different hues and variegations to achieve one-of-a-kind results.

Another benefit of concrete is its durability. While everything requires some maintenance, concrete doesn’t stain, tear or burn like carpet, nor does it ding and warp like some laminate flooring. The frequency of needed cleaning and sealing of stamped and colored concrete varies; factors like foot traffic (and car traffic in some cases), water, chemical and sun exposure should all be considered when choosing a concrete floor. But, according to the pros, you can expect to reseal your concrete only every few years, likely much less often than you clean your carpets and much more convenient than prying up and replacing sections of damaged laminate! Resealing is recommended even if you don’t visibly see a need. This will keep your flooring from fading and keep the colors as true and vibrant as when they were first installed. Over time, the longevity and low maintenance requirements of concrete will result in savings as compared to many paving materials. You can expect to pay more than for asphalt or plain concrete, but generally less than (or at least competitive with) brick, natural stone or precast pavers.

Another versatile and cost-effective product for both indoor and outdoor flooring is Granicrete. A polymer enriched concrete that can meet factory or industrial strength requirements of up to 8,000 lb./sq. in., the material can be grooved and finished to emulate a grouted tile or stone floor, but without the actual grouted joints. It can be poured over existing concrete or tile and used for driveways, interior floors, shower walls and more; the material can also be formed into curves and irregular patterns. It is perfect for remodeling jobs in which the walls of an old home are somewhat less than straight and plumb. Southwest Granicrete in Las Cruces even provides training for those inclined to handle such projects themselves. As with stamped concrete, the patterns and colors of Granicrete are almost infinite, allowing the homeowner to create a unique look.

Bear in mind, beyond entire projects using just stamped concrete or Granicrete, there is the option of using them in combination with other flooring materials or as an accent to plain concrete. For instance, a driveway of (less-expensive) plain concrete can be made unique and impressive by simply adding a border of stamped concrete or an exclusive pattern of Granicrete. A walkway to an existing wood deck can be made elegant with a meandering path of stamped concrete or a Granicrete walkway resembling stone.

However you decide to use these materials, you are sure to come away with something truly distinctive that will stand the test of time. And in addition to the interest these accents create, they also add aesthetic value and curb appeal. This will not only serve to maximize the return on your investment should you ever sell your house, but it will also bring you endless enjoyment for the years you get to spend admiring it.