Concrete Placing & Finishing

The main types of concrete finishes are broom, exposed aggregate, stamped and polished. The chosen type depends on the desired finished look and application.

• Broom finish: A broom is dragged over wet concrete, creating parallel and textured ridges. This is best for outdoor surfaces needing high slip resistance, like sidewalks, ramps, pool decks and driveways.
• Exposed aggregate: The top layer of concrete is removed to reveal sand and gravel beneath. It's best for patios, pool decks, parks and pathways because it results in a decorative and natural look that's also slip-resistant.
• Stamped: Patterns and colors are pressed into the concrete to mimic natural materials. It's best for decorative landscaping, walkways and patios to achieve a brick, stone, or wood look.
• Polished: The surface is ground down and polished with abrasives for a glossy, refined finish. It's best for interior, high-traffic commercial spaces, showrooms, offices and modern residential floors.

A better concrete finish can increase home value, providing an average ROI between 50 and 80%, or an added $3,000 to $10,000 in resale value. It does this by enhancing curb appeal. Concrete offers a durable, smooth surface with a smaller risk of damage and wear over time. Upgrading the driveway, patio or garage floor with a decorative or smooth surface can enhance the look of your entire property.

Salt can damage finished concrete by seeping into the porous surface, freezing, expanding and causing it to crack and spall from within. Salt can also cause concrete to scale, resulting in flaking or pitting. Salt essentially breaks down the top layer of concrete, corroding internal steel reinforcement and reducing the concrete's lifespan. Safer alternatives than salt for melting ice on concrete include sand, grit, calcium magnesium acetate or ash.

Finished concrete can last several decades, depending on the application and climate. Surfaces that see more foot traffic, like driveways, patios and sidewalks, may last a shorter time than foundations, for instance. Freeze-thaw cycles and the use of salt can shorten the life of concrete as well. Regularly sealing, and polishing and grinding the surface can strengthen it to protect it and extend its lifespan.