Curb appeal can be defined as the first impression of a home or property as viewed from the street. It can actually increase the value of a property for resale, or better yet, cause envy from nearby neighbors.

One of the hottest trends right now in curb appeal is the creation of distinctive driveways. Options for driveways used to be pretty simple, asphalt or concrete. But these days the possibilities for concrete are practically limitless, allowing you to take your carport from blasé to beautiful.

Stamped concrete, often referred to as "patterned concrete" or "imprinted concrete", is concrete that has been designed to resemble other more expensive materials such as brick, slate, flagstone, tile or even wood. And the cost effectiveness, easy maintenance and endless design possibilities are making stamped concrete a must-have. In stamped concrete you can incorporate decorative patterns, even using other elements such as bond brick, hexogonal tile, worn rock or stone.

Another way to embellish your concrete is through the use of acid stains. Because concrete is naturally a neutral tone and it possesses a unique porous quality, it's the perfect blank slate. It allows decorative concrete contractors to create color schemes that mimic elements like marble or even leather, so that each homeowner achieves a truly custom look. Plus, adding a touch of color can make your home all the more elegant and inviting. A few of the numerous color choices include Green Lawn, Cola, Aqua Blue, Venetian Pink and Sandstone Cream. This way you can compliment the colors of your home with your driveway.

If you have an existing driveway, there are ways to get a lasting makeover without starting from scratch. For instance, you can resurface your concrete with overlay systems to eliminate cracks or blemishes, or you can choose to permanently engrave or sketch patterns for an enhanced appeal.

Stamped concrete is a great option for anyone looking to make a minor aesthetic change, with a major lasting impression. For more information about concrete stamping and sketching and for help finding a local contractor in your area, visit www.concretetnetwork.com.

Published: October 7, 2008

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Tara Darby is a head anchor for Realty Times. She began her career in television soon after her reign as Miss Alabama USA 2004. She also landed in the Top Ten lineup at The Miss USA Pageant and participated in a special Miss USA Fear Factor on NBC. Obviously fear was not a factor for her since she won the competition! Later, she appeared as a special guest on Larry King Live to share her experiences. After that the media opportunities grew and so did her love of the camera, and thus her career began. Since then she has hosted several shows including two national series, and a new home builder show.