Broom Finish Concrete: Why Should You Get It?

It is a common practice to achieve a smooth surface on concrete by troweling it. However, this smooth finish can become extremely slippery when wet. To ensure safety, it is recommended to opt for a broom finish on the concrete. In this method, the concrete is poured and then leveled using a stiff brush, creating a rough surface texture. By following these steps, you can create a broom finish concrete that is safe to use.

Why Use Broom Finish Concrete?

This method of finishing concrete is usually used outside for verandas or driveways. The concrete is given a rough texture by using a broom with a sturdy bristle. This technique has been used by many concrete experts for years to create a surface that is durable and provides enough traction.

A broom finish can be applied to deteriorating concrete surfaces in order to enhance skid protection. This brushed finish is not only one of the easiest methods but also an affordable way to make a surface safer.

How Long Does it Take to Create a Broom Finish?

When it comes to finishing concrete with a broom, timing is crucial. The surface will become weak if you brush it too soon. If you brush too early, there won’t be enough texture. The slab must still be soft but a large amount of water has been removed before you can brush. This can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the weather.

Each contractor will have their own method of determining when and how to broom the concrete. Some concrete contractors wait until they do not see an imprint on their fingers, while others feel the broom as they drag it across the surface.

How to Broom Finish Concrete

The contractor will pour the slab first and then strike it with a screed. They will then level the concrete with a bull float. Here they wait for the concrete bleed to finish. This shouldn’t take long because exterior concrete is low in water-cement, so it may not need to be bled out too much.

It is not necessary to use the trowel for the entire job, but you should consider it at least twice before using the broom to finish. Our concrete contractors recommend brushing immediately after the second trowel.

Bleeding occurs when air particles are trapped within the concrete as it settles. This prevents the concrete from setting properly, causing some water to bleed. Some builders hesitate to use a trowel on a surface that is broom-finished. While others may choose to skip the troweling and use only the bull float and broom.

The more you trowel the surface, the more challenging it becomes to achieve a broom finish. If the surface is too hard, you can use a dampened broom to smooth it out. When brooming across a slope, it is important to do so perpendicularly. Additionally, if there is a drain, the broom should be directed towards it.

Curing Brushed Concrete

Curing the broom-finished concrete is always recommended. This can be done by spraying a curing compound or if your contractor decides to use polyethylene sheets. Many concrete experts will add white paint to a gray concrete surface, such as a garage or driveway. This allows them to see the area where it has been painted.

You don’t need to be concerned because in one week the white color will disappear and you won’t notice it. The contractor will then seal the concrete after they have finished broom-finishing it.

How to Get the Best Results

When it comes to choosing materials for your driveway or outdoor flooring, there are numerous options available. Concrete stands out as one of the easiest materials to install, and it is also possible to install aggregate concrete with relative ease.

One option is to grind down an existing concrete driveway to expose the aggregate beneath. To protect the surface, it is important to seal the concrete driveway.

Alternatively, you can lay aggregate concrete in the same manner as regular concrete. It is possible to apply an aggregate finish to existing concrete surfaces.

What Type of Broom Is Used?

There are various types of concrete brooms available in the market, each with unique specifications and widths, as well as different textures and levels.

The block that holds the bristles on the broom can be made from wood, aluminum, or plastic. Plastic brooms are the most common choice due to their resistance to rust and warping, resulting in a longer lifespan.

When it comes to the bristles on concrete brooms, they are typically made from materials such as nylon, polypropylene, and horsehair. These bristles should be stiffer compared to other types of brooms, and they come in different sizes. If you want to achieve more extreme textures, wire combs can provide better results.

In addition to traditional brooms with handles, there are also brooms that are either handleless or attached to a bull float. These brooms are positioned in a way that ensures the bristles are finished at the sides, creating a uniform look.

However, it’s important to note that when the pour is very wide, the bull float handle can become too heavy, making it challenging to push a broom across the entire surface.

Overall, the market offers a variety of concrete brooms with different features and materials to cater to various needs and preferences.

You will then not have to worry about pushing the broom into the concrete too deeply because the float is going to support the weight of the handle instead of having the broom do all the heavy lifting.

Why Should You Consider Broom Finish Concrete

Broom finish concrete offers several advantages that make it a popular choice for various applications, such as patios, driveways, and walkways. Here are some reasons why you should consider a broom finish:

Slip Resistance

One of the primary reasons for choosing a broom finish is its slip-resistant texture. The broom creates grooves and ridges on the surface, enhancing traction and reducing the risk of slips and falls, especially when the concrete is wet.

Durability

Broom finish concrete is known for its durability. The textured surface helps to distribute weight and impact more evenly, making it less prone to cracking and damage. It can withstand heavy foot traffic, vehicle loads, and the effects of weathering, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Cost-Effectiveness

Broom finish concrete is a cost-effective option compared to some other decorative finishes. It requires minimal additional materials and labor, making it a budget-friendly choice for those seeking a textured and functional surface.

Low Maintenance

Maintaining broom finish concrete is relatively easy. The texture helps to hide dirt, stains, and minor imperfections, making it less noticeable and reducing the need for frequent cleaning or maintenance. Regular sweeping and occasional pressure washing are generally sufficient to keep the surface looking clean and well-maintained.

Versatility

Broom finish concrete is versatile and can be applied to various concrete projects. Whether you’re looking to install a new driveway, patio, or sidewalk, or want to enhance the appearance and functionality of an existing concrete surface, a broom finish can be applied to achieve the desired results.

Time Efficiency

Compared to some more intricate decorative finishes, broom finish concrete is relatively quick and straightforward to apply. The process involves using a broom to create the desired texture, which can be completed efficiently, saving time during the construction or renovation process.

Final Thoughts

Broom finish concrete is a versatile and cost-effective choice for achieving a slip-resistant surface in various outdoor applications. With its durability, low maintenance requirements, and ability to enhance traction, it offers both functionality and aesthetics. Whether you’re looking to create a safe walkway, a durable driveway, or a textured patio, broom finish concrete provides a reliable solution that withstands the test of time.

So, if you’re looking for a practical and long-lasting option for your concrete project, consider broom finish concrete for its numerous benefits and peace of mind. Call us at NAV Construction to get a free estimate!