Submitted by Rick Ribeiro, owner of Alto Contracting Inc.

If your concrete is plain and boring, give it a face-lift.

When a concrete walkway, patio or steps have structurally deteriorated, the only remedy is removal and replacement. However, when the concrete is still structurally sound, a stamped concrete overlay can transform the area and bring life to your hardscape. With various patterns, colors and textures, it's easy to find something that matches your style and fits the colors and style of your existing landscape.

A stamped concrete overlay is a specifically designed and fortified mixture that, when professionally installed, becomes an integral part of the existing concrete structure.

We use the appropriate methods of cleaning and preparing the existing concrete, and bonding agents to insure proper adhesion between the existing concrete and the new concrete overlay. Once the overlay has cured, a UV protective sealer with grip to assist in traction is applied over the entire area.

So, the next time you’re walking on a bland concrete walkway, patio or basement floor, and you’re contemplating removing it for something new, think about an overlay instead. With an overlay there is no mess from removing concrete with jack-hammers or the noise associated with demolition. A typical overlay project can be performed from start to finish in two days.

Alto Contracting Inc. is a Cortlandt Manor, N.Y., paving and masonry contractor that specializes in stamped concrete, natural stone masonry work, bluestone work, asphalt/blacktop driveway paving and sealcoating.

As of August 19, 2011, this service provider was highly rated on Angie’s List. Ratings are subject to change based on consumer feedback, so check AngiesList.com for the most up-to-date reviews. The views expressed by this author do not necessarily reflect those of Angie’s List.