What are your pros and cons for stamped concrete?

PROS

Aesthetics: You will never suffer from lack of choices when choosing colors, patterns and textures for your patio. Earth tones are the most popular for your patio color scheme. Going with a natural look will be guaranteed to never go out of style or fall out like a fad.

Installation: Because stamped concrete is one continuous form, it is seen as a less labor intensive option to the installation of concrete pavers.

Cost Effective Alternative: Stamped concrete, compared to brick or concrete pavers is an economical way to extend your outdoor living space. While some stamped concrete does not require a seal, some clients prefer a sealed surface, which will give it a wet look but will be protected from the elements and offer slip resistance. With stamped concrete being a more economical choice upfront, if you choose to seal the surface, you will be committed to resealing it every 3-5 years.

Maintenance: Because stamped concrete is one continuous piece of concrete, you will not have to worry about weeds growing through the joints, as you would with concrete pavers. Concrete pavers also run the risk of separating and heaving with the freeze/thaw of our winter seasons, but with stamped concrete you won’t have to worry about an unsettled surface.

CONS

Aesthetics: While stamped concrete closely resembles other hardscape materials such as slate and natural stone, it is still just a simulation. Stamped concrete is an attractive solution for a patio, but it is hardly ever mistaken for the real deal.

Cracking: If it has been said once, it has been said a thousand time, is is not if the concrete will crack but when the concrete will crack. Being that stamped concrete is one continuous hardscape without room for movement, the relief joints that are saw cut into the surface are very i

We have a huge stamped concrete patio that we had put in 16 years ago. It still looks like new. Love it!