Decorative Concrete work on an active jobsite

Decorative Concrete project guide

Decorative Concrete contractors cost and hiring guide

Stamped, stained, exposed-aggregate and overlay finishes on patios, walks, pool decks and driveways, sealed and built on a proper slab.

View contractors

Key facts

Decorative Concrete numbers you can check

Rules and figures that come up in nearly every decorative concrete quote, with the public source for each one.

FactWhat it saysSource
Silica limitGrinding and cutting decorative surfaces is capped by OSHA’s 50 µg/m³ respirable silica limit (8-hour average).OSHA, Respirable Crystalline Silica (29 CFR 1926.1153)As of September 2026
Dust controlsOSHA Table 1 names water-fed grinders and vacuums with 99%-efficient filters as controls for grinding and cutting concrete.OSHA, Respirable Crystalline Silica (29 CFR 1926.1153)As of September 2026
Concrete washoutConcrete truck washout must be managed in an appropriate control; discharging it to storm drains is prohibited under the CGP.EPA, 2022 Construction General Permit (final permit)As of September 2026

Project guide

Hiring decorative concrete contractors

Decorative concrete is standard flatwork with a finish applied while it is wet or after it cures: stamped patterns that mimic stone, slate or wood plank, integral or broadcast color, acid or water-based stains, exposed aggregate, and polymer overlays that resurface an existing slab. The finish adds a lot of labor in a short window. On a stamped pour the crew has to place, color, stamp and detail the whole slab before it sets, so crew size and weather matter more than on plain concrete. Because the surface is the product, the base, thickness, reinforcement and joint layout still have to be right, and joints should be planned into the pattern rather than cut across it afterward. Sealer is what keeps color and finish looking new; most decorative surfaces need resealing every two to three years, and stamped surfaces can be slippery when wet unless a grit additive is used.

GradeLine lists 78 decorative concrete contractors.Compare their work and equipment, then confirm availability and service area before requesting a quote.

Listed businesses are based in Macedon, Loveland Park, Mount Lebanon, Marion, Shanor-Northvue, Parksley, though most crews travel well beyond their home city.

What decorative concrete work costs

Stamped concrete typically runs $12 to $25 per square foot depending on pattern and color complexity, with exposed aggregate at $8 to $15 and stains or dyes on existing concrete at $4 to $10. Overlays commonly cost $5 to $15 per square foot plus any repair to the slab underneath, and resealing runs about $1 to $2 per square foot every few years.

Ranges are national and approximate; regional labor rates, material prices and site conditions move them in both directions.

Common projects

  • Stamped and colored patios, walkways, pool decks and driveways
  • Exposed-aggregate, sandblasted and salt-finish surfaces
  • Stains, dyes, polished floors and overlays that resurface existing slabs

What affects a quote

  • Square footage, pattern complexity and the number of colors, borders and release agents involved
  • Whether it is a new pour on a prepared base or an overlay on an existing slab that needs repair first
  • Sealer type, slip-resistant additive, weather protection and crew size the finish requires

Decorative Concrete FAQ

What does decorative concrete work cost?

Stamped concrete typically runs $12 to $25 per square foot depending on pattern and color complexity, with exposed aggregate at $8 to $15 and stains or dyes on existing concrete at $4 to $10. Overlays commonly cost $5 to $15 per square foot plus any repair to the slab underneath, and resealing runs about $1 to $2 per square foot every few years.

What should I share when requesting a decorative concrete estimate?

Send photos of finishes you like, the dimensions and how the space will be used, whether the area is in full sun or gets wet, and any existing concrete that would be resurfaced.

What can change the cost of decorative concrete work?

The main cost items are square footage, pattern complexity and the number of colors, borders and release agents involved; whether it is a new pour on a prepared base or an overlay on an existing slab that needs repair first; sealer type, slip-resistant additive, weather protection and crew size the finish requires. A site visit helps the crew see which ones apply.

Do decorative concrete projects need permits?

Decorative work follows the same permit rules as plain flatwork: usually exempt for small patios and walks, required for slabs that support a structure, sit in the right-of-way, or change drainage. Pool deck work may be inspected as part of the pool permit.

Find decorative concrete contractors near you

Pick a state to see the decorative concrete contractors listed there. Most crews travel well beyond their home city, so confirm the service area before requesting a quote.

Contractor directory

Browse decorative concrete contractors

78 contractors found

Need a decorative concrete contractor in your area?

Tell us about the job and add photos. A local pro calls you back. Free, and no spam.

Request services

Related excavation services

ExcavationGradingSite PrepLand ClearingDemolitionTrenching / Underground
View all services