FAQs
Why do I need more than one stamp to stamp concrete and what is a “set” of stamps?
For a couple of reason. First and foremost, the concrete would dry faster than you could stamp if you only used one stamp. Also, seamless texture skins are made to overlap each other. Patterned stamps are made to butt up against each other for tight precision and no gaps in between the stamps. Rule of thumb: the desired amount of stamps would span the width of the job, plus 2 stamps.
For Patterned sets, a “set” of stamps would consist of a minimum amount of regular stamps (in most cases 6), 1 flex stamp and two touch up skins.
Seamless Textures sets can be made of any configuration desired. In most cases, at least three each of our 4’ x 4’ or 5’ x 5’ and two matching touch up skins.
What is the difference between a Seamless Texture and a Patterned Stamp?
A Seamless Texture is a feathered edge stamp, with a texture. These stamps can simply overlap each other for a textured finish without seams. A Pattered stamp could be a number of patterns – random stone, cobblestone, brick, or wood plank – to name a few. They are made to fit together in tight precision.
How do I care for my stamps?
We recommend a mild soap and soft brush. Liquid dish washing soap is actually one of the best method of cleaning stamps. Also, you can spray your stamps with silicone to keep them well conditioned.
What are concrete stamps made from?
Proline hand manufactures each stamp out of a special formula of polymer. Proline's formula sets them apart from their competitors as it lets them make stamps lighter in weight, yet more durable.
Will Proline stamps work for overlay applications?
Absolutely. Proline sells all around the world, and almost ½ of the stamps they sell are used for overlay applications. There are some exceptions. Stamps that are “groutable” are not suited for overlay. However, in most cases, Proline makes a non-groutable version of the same stamp. There are a few patterns with deeper grout lines that might not be suitable. Ask your Proline customer service representative if the pattern you want is suited for overlayment.
How often do I have to seal the concrete?
After the initial installation and sealing, you should re-seal your stamped concrete every 1 ½ years, depending on the weather conditions in your area.
Why do some patterns have more than one stamp to a set?
Some patterns need more than one piece – up to 3 different stamps – to make the pattern. It allows the pattern to be “opened up”, so the eye does not see a repetitive pattern. The easiest way to think of it is that 2 (or 3 depending on the pattern) pieces actually make ONE piece of the puzzle. If a stamp requires more than one piece, the part numbers will include an A, B, or C, depending on the number of stamps in the series.
What is a flex stamp and why do I need them?
Proline offers a flex stamp to match each pattern. A flex is needed when going against walls or walkways. It is thinner and therefore more flexible for bending against structures. A flex stamp can only get so close, so first stamp the area with a touch up skin of the background texture, then hand tool where needed. A flex stamp is made out of the same material as a regular stamp but it differs in 3 ways:
- Approximately 25% thinner for added flexibility
- Has a tab handle instead of a looped handle
- Less expensive because it is thinner
What is a touch up skin?
Every pattern, whether it is a Seamless Texture or a Patterned style, needs a touch up skin. A touch up skin is a feathered edge texture skin approximately 20” x 20” in size. When stamping, touch up skin is always needed for edges and areas that need improved. Each Patterned stamp has a background texture. For instance, Arizona Flagstone has Light Sandstone texture in the rocks of the pattern. Therefore, you need a matching Light Sandstone touch up skin to match the pattern.