TL;DR Summary – What to Expect With Concrete
Concrete work, especially stamped concrete, is a handcrafted process and naturally includes minor imperfections. At Somerset Patios & Concrete, we set realistic expectations and educate homeowners on common characteristics such as ridges, shallow impressions, small low spots (often called bird baths), hairline cracking, surface tears, color variation, and minor stamp misalignment.
Most of these conditions are cosmetic rather than structural and do not affect performance. Our goal is to deliver durable, attractive results while being transparent about how concrete behaves in real-world conditions.
Common Characteristics and Natural Imperfections in Concrete
At Somerset Patios & Concrete, we believe clear communication is just as important as quality installation. Both
stamped concrete patios
and traditional concrete surfaces are artisan applications. Because concrete is placed, finished, and textured by hand, every project will include subtle variations.
In the concrete industry, a stamped surface that achieves a 7 out of 10 in visual uniformity is considered a strong result across hundreds of similar installations. The characteristics below are normal and should be understood as part of working with a natural material, not signs of poor workmanship.
1. Ridges or Fins
Ridges or fins are thin raised edges that may appear where stamp mats meet. They form when wet concrete is pushed upward between adjacent stamps. If a ridge poses a safety concern, it can be lightly ground down, though grinding may slightly change the surface color. Minor fins that do not affect safety are typically left in place to maintain visual consistency.
2. Shallow Stamp Impressions
Shallow impressions occur when parts of the concrete firm up faster than others or when pressure varies during stamping. Some areas can be enhanced with hand tools, but the texture may not perfectly match the surrounding sections. These variations are cosmetic and common in decorative concrete.
3. Bird Baths (Minor Low Spots)
Bird baths are small, low areas where water may briefly collect after rain. They often occur when installers must step on semi-set concrete during stamping. These spots are usually minor and do not require correction. Grinding or patching is possible if needed, though cosmetic differences may remain.
4. Cracks
All concrete cracks over time. Control joints are installed to encourage cracking in planned locations, but hairline cracks can still occur elsewhere. These cracks are typically cosmetic and do not affect structural integrity, especially when proper reinforcement is used.
5. Tears or Surface Crusting
Surface tears or crusting can appear near stamped edges when stamp mats shift slightly during placement. These marks are cosmetic and usually stable over time. In some cases, they can be blended or filled to reduce visibility.
6. Crazing or Spider Webbing
Crazing appears as very fine surface lines that are often visible only when the concrete is wet. This occurs due to surface shrinkage during curing and does not affect durability. No repair is required.
7. Uneven Release Color
Release powder is used during stamping to prevent sticking and create contrast. After washing, some areas may retain more pigment than others, creating a marbled appearance. This variation is normal and often considered part of the decorative appeal of stamped concrete.
8. Stamp Misalignment
Stamped concrete requires precise placement under time-sensitive conditions. Limited visibility and changing concrete firmness can result in slight misalignment. Once a stamp is set, it cannot be repositioned. Minor alignment variation is common and generally not correctable after curing.
9. Inconsistent Texture Near Edges and Obstacles
Areas near walls, posts, steps, or tight corners are more difficult to stamp consistently. These zones may show less defined texture or duplicated stamp lines. These variations do not affect performance and are a normal part of custom concrete work.
Why We Use Synthetic Microfibers Instead of Wire Mesh or Rebar
One of the most important decisions in concrete construction happens before the concrete is ever poured—how the slab is reinforced. For most residential flatwork, we use synthetic microfibers mixed directly into the concrete instead of traditional wire mesh or light rebar.
Better Crack Control While Concrete Is Still Fresh
Microfibers are distributed evenly throughout the concrete mix, helping control plastic shrinkage cracking. These are the fine surface cracks that can form while concrete is still wet due to moisture loss. Wire mesh and rebar do little to prevent these early cracks—they mainly help hold cracks together after they form.
Improved Surface Quality
By reducing excess water rising to the surface (known as bleeding), microfibers help create a more uniform finish with fewer hairline surface cracks. This results in better durability and appearance over time.
No Rust or Corrosion Risk
Unlike steel wire mesh or rebar, synthetic microfibers cannot rust. This is especially important in Western New York, where moisture and de-icing salts can cause steel reinforcement to corrode, leading to surface damage years later.
More Consistent Reinforcement
Because microfibers are mixed throughout the concrete, they provide reinforcement in all directions. Wire mesh can end up sitting too low in the slab or shift during placement, reducing its effectiveness.
Often Replaces Wire Mesh in Residential Flatwork
For many patios, walkways, and pool decks, microfibers are commonly used as a replacement for light-duty wire mesh when combined with proper base preparation, control joints, and curing practices.
Final Thoughts
Concrete is a durable, versatile material, but it is not manufactured in a factory setting. Small imperfections reflect the hands-on craftsmanship involved in each project. Our team works carefully to minimize visual inconsistencies while prioritizing structural integrity, drainage, and long-term performance.
If you are planning a decorative concrete project or have questions about surface characteristics, we encourage you to explore our
concrete contractor services
or contact us directly. We are always happy to explain what to expect and help you make informed decisions about your outdoor space.