Concrete is a very versatile material that can be used in a wide range of applications. There are different methods for finishing concrete, and each will give you a different look. Some finishes are polished to a high shine, while others have a rougher appearance. We will be going over the top 5 styles in this blog.
Image by: Perfect Polish Concrete
Polished Concrete Finish
A polished concrete finish is achieved by polishing the surface of the concrete. Polishing involves using abrasives to remove small amounts of material from the surface to create a smooth, reflective surface that can be cleaned easily. The most common type of polishing is done with diamond pads, which are discs covered with industrial diamonds that grind away at the top layer of concrete and leave behind a smooth finish.
Image by: Curb n’ Décor
Stamped Concrete Finish
A stamped concrete finish is a pattern that is stamped into the surface of the concrete. This can be a simple geometric shape, or it can be a more complex pattern. For example, if you want to add some interest to your patio floor, consider using an intricate stamp pattern for your patio floor. This will help draw attention away from any imperfections in your patio slab and make it look unique.
Image by: Texas Patios
Rock Salt Concrete Finish
A rock salt concrete finish is a textured concrete finish that creates the appearance of rock salt. This type of finish can be used as a decorative finish on driveways, patios and sidewalks. The texture adds visual interest and adds traction to slippery surfaces.
While this type of finish looks like natural stone, it is made from various types of aggregates including sand, pebbles and stones. As the concrete dries it forms small bumps resembling tiny rocks or particles of sand in order to create this effect. It can also be colored or left plain depending on what look you want your patio flooring to have!
Broom Concrete Finish
Image by: Dur-A-Flex
Broom concrete finish is a random pattern made with an oscillating tool. This finish looks like you swept the floor with a broom and left your footprints behind, making it a great choice for patios or walkways.
The best way to create this type of concrete finish is by using an oscillating tool with a broom attachment. The machine will vibrate as you run over the wet concrete, breaking up the surface into random patterns resembling those of mud on a freshly swept floor.
Trowel Concrete Finish
Image by: The Constructor
A trowel concrete finish is a smooth finish that is created by using a trowel to spread the concrete. The trowel concrete finish will be very smooth and even, which makes it ideal for areas where you want an even surface. This type of finished can be used on floors or walls, but it's especially useful when laying tile on a floor because it creates a flat surface for the tiles to sit on.
It’s important to know that concrete can be an extremely versatile material. You can use it for all kinds of things, from driveways and walkways to patios and floors. And even though it’s easy to think of concrete as just one thing—a grayish-white solid that you might find in your basement or garage—it comes in many different colors, textures, and patterns.
PRO TIP: Once you have decided which concrete finish you like the best ensure you use a sealant for your concrete this will ensure a longer life span. Use a concrete backpack sprayer for a speedier process.
Glossary
Aggregate: Materials like gravel, sand, or crushed stone mixed into cement and water to form concrete.Color Hardener: A powdered substance applied to concrete to enhance its color and strength.
Release Agent: A chemical used in the stamping process to prevent concrete from sticking to the stamping tools.
Curing: The process of maintaining moisture within freshly poured concrete to ensure proper setting and hardening.
Sealer: A liquid applied to concrete to protect it from moisture, staining, and corrosion.
