Frequently Asked Questions

Both. About 75% of the work Jensen Decorative Concrete handles is decorative — stamped, colored, or patterned. But the crew also pours plain flatwork: garage slabs, utility pads, standard sidewalks. If it’s residential concrete, the team can handle it.

Stamped concrete is a single poured slab with a pattern pressed into the surface while it’s still wet. Pavers are individual units set on a sand or gravel base. Stamped concrete typically costs less to install, has fewer weed and shifting issues, and holds up well in Minnesota’s climate when sealed properly. Pavers can settle unevenly over time, especially with our clay-heavy soils.

Pricing depends on square footage, pattern complexity, color choices, and site conditions — so it’s hard to give a single number without seeing your property. The best way to get an accurate figure is a free on-site estimate, where Derek can assess the subgrade, access, and scope in person.

In most cases, no. Stamping happens when concrete is freshly poured and still workable. If you have an existing slab in decent shape, a concrete overlay with a stamped finish is sometimes an option — but it depends on the condition of the original surface. Derek can evaluate it during a site visit and give you an honest answer about what’s feasible.

Jensen Decorative Concrete carries a solid collection of stamp patterns — Ashlar slate, random stone, cobblestone, wood plank, and several others similar to industry-standard designs like Royal Ashlar and Ochre Stone. Color options include integral colors mixed into the concrete and release colors applied during stamping. Derek can walk you through samples at the estimate and help you match something that fits your home’s style.

Most residential projects — a patio, driveway, or pool deck — take 2 to 5 days of on-site work, depending on size and complexity. That doesn’t include curing time; you’ll want to stay off the surface for at least a few days after the pour. Derek gives a clear timeline before work starts so you know exactly what to expect.

Concrete needs consistent temperatures above 50 degrees to cure properly, so the season in Minnesota runs roughly April through November. Spring and early summer book fast — if you want a summer patio, reaching out in late winter or early spring is smart. Fall pours work well too, as long as the crew can finish before the first hard freeze.

Derek Jensen is on every single job site — not managing from an office or sending out subcontractors. The crew is five people total, which means your project gets full attention from start to finish. After 25 years of pouring decorative concrete across the Twin Cities, Derek has handled the subgrade surprises, the weather calls, and the detail work that separates a job that lasts from one that doesn’t.

Yes — sealing is essential, especially in Minnesota. A quality sealer protects the surface from moisture penetration, which is what causes freeze-thaw damage. Plan on resealing every 2 to 3 years. It’s a straightforward job, and Derek can advise on the right product and timing based on your specific installation.