Decorative concrete

[Alexx]

Hi,

I'm thinking to build a patio in my garden and also to re-pave the exsisting solid concrete footpath (a rather ugly one) using decorative concrete. I want them to look something like this:
http://www.concretethinker.com/Content/ImageLib/dfw3.jpg
(Well probably not exactly the same pattern, but you get the idea)

I have 3 questions in this regard and would be grateful if anybody could help.

Firstly - is there any online manual on doing this? I worked with concrete before, so just need some subject-specific guidance?

Secondly, does any major retailer sell the equipment, by which i mean the dye you add to concrete and the stencils/imprint molds?

Last one - what is the required minimal thickness of the layer? The footpath is already raised about 3 inches and I wouldn't like to turn it into a catwalk.

Many thanks

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Solved.

Here's what I've found:

http://www.pavingexpert.com/links06.htm
http://www.stencil-tech.co.uk/contact.htm

 

[masona]

You're nearly there, it's here. I like to know where to buy the tools though, I'll keep on searching

 

[Alexx]

Thanks,

The project is becoming clearer and clearer.

One question is remaining. What should be the thickness of a concrete layer being layed on top of an existing solid concrete slab so that it doesnt crack easily or chip off. The area in question is a footpath. Will 50 mm be enough or should i go for 75?

Also, I'm not sure there is a damp proof membrane underneath this existing concrete. I don't suppose it's feasible to lay one between the layers of concrete?

Here's another link to a supplier by the way:
http://www.royhatfield.com/coloring/pattern-imprinters.asp

 

[BMcN]

Hi Alexx, sorry to resurrect an old thread but I was wondering how you got on with this? Did you ever buy the bits and if so how did it go?

Thanks, Bryan.

 

[Alexx]

Brian,

I've abandoned the idea after contacting a couple of suppliers and finding out that they only sell in bulk (well, in batches way bigger that I needed and was prepared to spend on)

I'm leaving it rusticky for the time being