How we install your pattern imprinted concrete

Consultation visits

Having decided upon Dee Print Driveways to install your pattern imprinted concrete driveway, patio, pathway or pool surround, the next most crucial decision to make is choosing the colours and patterns.

As the paving will be there for many years, it is a big decision to make and so we are happy to spend the time with you helping you to choose the ideal combination.

In addition to the colours and patterns, the consultation visits can recommend lighting features and hard landscaping which may include brick walls, steps and features such as circles, planters and edging details. You may also wish to consider restyling existing walls with our Wall Crete system.

You will be given full details of the various stages and will be given answers to any questions you may have on the process and timing schedules will be discussed.

Site preparation

With the design agreed, the team can start on the excavation of the site. Machinery will be used (unless access does not allow).

The ground will be excavated to a minimum depth of 200mm and all waste material will be removed from site to the recycling centre.

The sub base of hardcore is then laid to a minimum of 100mm and then compacted with a vibrating plate.

If drainage or man holes are required, these, along with the form work and shuttering will be set out at the required levels to ensure water run off. Any steps or retaining walls that may be required will also be constructed at this stage.

This stage will take on average one day.

Concrete laying

The concrete is placed, compacted and levelled to a minimum depth of 100mm for a domestic driveway.

The colour surface hardener is then uniformly applied at a minimum rate of 2.5kg/m2. It is then trowelled to a smooth finish and printed with the pattern of your choice.

To avoid any undesired marks on the surface, the concrete must be left undisturbed.

Contraction/ crack control/ expansion joints will be cut in as soon as the concrete will withstand the cutting process in order to minimise the risk of random cracking.

The excess powder release agents will be washed off approximately 24 to 48 hours after installation of the concrete. A small amount of antiquing colour will be left in the pattern texture and joints.

Once the concrete is completely dry, two coats of solvent-based acrylic sealer will be applied. The contraction joints will be filled and this completes the process.

Approximately 48 hours later the newly laid driveway will be ready to accommodate vehicles, foot traffic may be only 2 hours.