What Are the Different Types of Concrete Patio Finishes?

Any home would benefit greatly from the addition of a patio. It allows you to enjoy the pleasures of being outside while remaining in the comfort of your own home. Patios can help increase the value of a home if you plan to sell it later.

Concrete patios are popular among homeowners because they are strong, long-lasting, simple to maintain, and aesthetically pleasing. After you’ve built it, you must finish it in a visually appealing manner.

NAV Construction recommends the following finishes for your concrete projects.

Stained Concrete Finishes

You must use acid-based chemicals (stains) in the concrete mix prior to pouring for this type of concrete finish. Stains, unlike paints, can penetrate deep into the pores of the concrete surface. These are divided into two types: acid stains and water stains. Both of these apply to both old and new concrete surfaces.

Surface earth tones are produced by acid-based concrete stains. The colors of the concrete staining range from blue-green to terra cotta and brown. Water-based stains are available in a wide range of colors, from metallics to tertiary black and white.

Because they are UV and abrasion-resistant, stained decorative concrete finishes are ideal for outdoor patios. These characteristics ensure that they can withstand exposure to harsh elements such as heavy rains. A protective sealer is required for the concrete patio to enhance the color and gloss of the finished surface.

Trowel Finished Concrete

A trowel finish or smooth concrete patio is the simplest looking among the types of concrete for patio finishes. The task entails passing a trowel over fresh, wet concrete to create a flat, smooth finish. Many people like the smooth surface created by a trowel finish, but it can be slippery when wet.

Salt Concrete Finish

The salt finish is a versatile material that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor concrete patios. Its versatility stems from the fact that it creates a slip-resistant surface. Pour a layer of rock salt on top of a freshly dried concrete surface to achieve a salt-finished look. Wash the excess off with water after it has set and dried.

The salt will dissolve over time, leaving small holes in the dry concrete mix. As a result, the surface has a distinct texture that is lightly pock-marked.

Broom Finished Concrete Patio

A broom finish is similar to a trowel finish in terms of technique. What you pass over freshly-poured concrete makes a difference. Instead of a trowel, a broom is used here. In this case, a broom with a stiff, flat brush is ideal. To achieve the desired marks, deliberately press the broom on the fresh concrete. After that, the concrete will have a slightly ridged surface.

It is simple to install and has the added benefit of increasing floor friction. It also promotes a faster and more even drying of concrete. When liquids, such as water, spill on this finish, the ridges aid in the orderly drainage of the spillage. It must be cleaned on a regular basis by sweeping and rinsing with a hose. Scrubbing with soap and water will remove stubborn stains.

Exposed Aggregate Finished Concrete

Begin by removing the top layer of an existing concrete surface to achieve an exposed aggregate finish. This reveals the underlying materials. There is an uneven, rough surface that is unappealing but slip-resistant.

After laying the concrete, wash or brush away the surface mortar. We may occasionally use a chemical surface retarder. It slows the setting of the concrete, allowing the contractor to unearth the aggregate finish.

When working on old patio floors, an exposed aggregate finish is also possible. To achieve the same result, our contractors will use abrasive blasting. Abrasive blasting, on the other hand, is a delicate technique. Without proper training, the procedure can dull and fracture the aggregate concrete patio surface.

Apply a concrete sealant that repels oil, water, and grease to maintain it and make cleaning easier. Make sure it’s also non-yellowing and UV resistant.

Brushed Concrete Patio

A brushed concrete patio is similar to, but not identical to, a broom finish. Both use brush bristles to create the ridges, but that is where the similarities end. Brush finishing requires you to crouch over the surface while holding the tool in your hands. Working with a trowel requires a similar posture.

This concrete patio requires the same maintenance and cleaning as one with a broom finish. When dealing with tough stains, you can use power washing.

Pebble Finish

A pebble finish concrete patio is created by scattering small pebbles on top of freshly wet concrete. It produces a textured concrete surface that is both visually appealing and slip-resistant. The finish allows you to choose the stones and pattern you want. You can also mix and scatter the pebbles at random for a more abstract look.

After that, carefully place a board over the affected area and apply pressure. This embeds the protruding pebbles in the gradually drying concrete. Later, lightly wash the surface with a soft brush and water to expose the pebbles even more.

Stamped Finish

A creative contractor’s playground is stamped concrete. It entails arranging a variety of rubber mats in various shapes, patterns, and sizes on freshly poured concrete. The majority of stamped concrete patio designs imitate the appearance and texture of wood or natural stone. NAV Construction, on the other hand, offers more fanciful patterns. The impression on the drying concrete patio remains after the mats have been removed.

Stamped concrete finishes are popular among homeowners because they can produce a wide range of textures and patterns. The rigidity of the concrete surface reduces the likelihood of slipping by increasing friction. Because of these characteristics, this finish is ideal for surfaces around swimming pools.

All of these concrete patio finishes must be resealed at least every two to three years.

Looking for Different Types of Concrete Finishes in Alexandria, VA?

Visit NAV Construction in Alexandria, Virginia, for more information on the various types of concrete finishes. You can also reach us at (703) 789-5839 for a quote or to schedule an appointment.