Stamped Concrete vs Plain Concrete: Which Is Right?

Stamped concrete looks great, but it costs more and needs more maintenance. Here’s how to decide which is right for your project.

Cost difference

Stamped concrete typically costs 60–80% more than plain broom-finished concrete. For a 400 sf patio, that’s roughly the difference between $3,200 and $5,600.

Durability

Both are equally durable structurally — same concrete, same reinforcement. The difference is the surface: stamped concrete needs resealing every 2–3 years to keep its color crisp through Missouri winters.

When stamped wins

Patios, pool decks, front entries — anywhere appearance matters and the surface won’t see heavy abrasion.

When plain wins

Driveways (vehicles abrade the sealer), garage floors, sidewalks, utility slabs.