Karen Reith-Fennessy, co-owner of Stampcrete International Ltd., displays a resurfaced walkway that was created using her new do-it-yourself decorative paving system. The system is designed to take the middle man out of the decorative paving process.
Courtesy of Stampcrete International Ltd.

Even in an industry that is male dominated, Karen Reith-Fennessy, co-owner and president of Stampcrete International Ltd., has shown the courage and determination to exceed expectations and become an innovator and leader in the decorative paving industry.

The company, long considered a top-tier provider of decorative paving service and products, is now leaping into the do-it-yourself sector, with Reith-Fennessy at the helm.

She is the wife of P. Michael Fennessy, considered a pioneer in the decorative paving and resurfacing industry and founder and co-owner of the company. His patented stamping tools have become the standard in the industry.

A new website has been launched for the do-it-yourselfer: https://www.diystampcrete.com

The timing is excellent for the website, said Reith Fennessy. Homeowners are seeking ways to not only beautify their homes, but do it in a cost-effective manner.

A DVD, "Easy Steps to Decorative Concrete," shows homeowners the precise steps necessary to install the system. "Homeowners will enjoy doing their own walkways or small patios because this industry has always led them to believe they could not do it themselves and must have a professional concrete contractor," Reith Fennessy said.

Doing walkways and small patios is not hard work, mainly because the DIYer only makes a small pour of actual concrete. If it's a husband and wife team, the husband can dig out the dirt and put the concrete forms in place. A couple could also very easily remove the release agent, she said.

Stampcrete customers can choose from three popular designs of stamping tools, including Fieldstone, Ashlar Slate and Arizona Flagstone. It also features two different release agents and a topcoat for sealing.

Reith Fennessy was introduced to the world of decorative paving while in South Florida in the 1980s.