Creating a stamped concrete surface — like the one in the TikTok post above — happens shortly after the pouring of fresh concrete when it is still moldable, at which point contractors will use textured stamps to create the pattern of popular stones like slate, brick, flagstone, and rounded cobblestone. Dyes are added to achieve variations in color at the mixing point to mimic the colors of other materials and can be applied as finishes that allow subtle variations.
Stamps include many different shapes and sizes of natural stone, as well as patterns like wood and floral designs. While they can create the look of space between the faux pavers, they do not have the complications of grout or things growing up between stones. Concrete is also not subject to the settling and shifting of loose pavers. While preparation for both laying paver stones and stamped concrete are similar, the process of stamping concrete is faster overall, particularly with larger spaces. The least expensive concrete stamping jobs will average between $8 and $12, with additional costs for certain finishes, labor-intensive designs, and more expensive sealant materials.