6 concrete finishes to consider for your next project

Pouring concrete into forms is only the first step to a job well done. To wrap the project, a top-quality finish is essential. There are numerous options for concrete finishes that look great and perform well. Some are enduring, some are eye-catching, and some promote safety. At Matt Shaw Concrete, we take pride in providing the highest quality craftsmanship on every project, and we ensure that every finish is completed with precision. Here are six popular concrete finishes to consider for your next project:

Salt Finish

A salt finish is created by pressing rock salt into the surface of the concrete that can be made two different ways, traditionally or with a roller. A salt finish adds a unique look and can be easily customized. With a dash of color, the finish can add an elegant, decorative touch that makes your project stand out. Additionally, the texture of salt finish concrete is naturally slip-resistant, making it an ideal pool deck material. Not only does it allow people to move around safely, but it also helps objects like utility vehicles to get around easily. 

Hard Trowel Finish

Trowel-finished concrete floors are seamless surfaces that recreate the concrete effect. This style of finish can be applied to any kind of surface, indoor and outdoor, horizontally or vertically. 

After the concrete is laid in the formwork and leveled, the trowel is used to smooth and fine-level the surface. This creates a sleek and polished effect, making it an excellent option for interiors. Additionally, trowel concrete is highly resistant to abrasion, wear, chemical agents, weather conditions, and water penetration. It is also easy and quick to clean. Trowel finishes are often used to add decorative texture which are more slip resistant than a traditional smooth finish

Exposed Aggregate Finish

Adding detail, depth, and natural colors, an exposed aggregate finish is a beautiful option for outside your home. Each pebble is carefully thrown by hand during a process called “broadcasting.” After troweling, the area is left to harden for 2-3 hours before the outer layer is washed away to expose the detailed texture of the pebbles below.

There are many advantages to an exposed-aggregate finish. While contrasting beautifully with plain concrete or other decorative treatments, this finish is also rugged, slip-resistant, and able to withstand heavy traffic.

Broom Finish

A broom finish is an affordable and durable solution. To create this finish, a stiff broom is used to give a textured surface after the concrete has been poured and leveled. The rough surface prevents slips and falls, making it a great option for wet areas such as pools and spas. As one of the least expensive techniques, a broom finish is perfect for those who need a strong and weather-resistant surface on a budget. Broom finishes also can be done in 3 textures: a light broom finish, medium, or hard broom finish - depending on the depth of brush strokes seen.

Top Cast Finish

Top Cast is a water-based, film-forming surface retarder that saves time by eliminating the need for covering the surface even when it rains. The wide selection of grades available provides a comprehensive range of styles, from a simulated light acid wash or sand blast finish up to full exposure of 1 ¼ in aggregate. Additionally, Top Cast can range from a soft finish to a hard finish. Ideal for poured-in-place flatwork, Top Cast is a great option for a patio.

Stamped Finish

Stamped concrete replicates stones, such as slate and flagstone, tile, brick, and even wood. The wide variety of patterns and color choices make it popular for beautifying patios, pool decks, driveways, and more. While more affordable than natural stone, brick, or pavers, stamped concrete adds an elevated and high-end look to any home. Adding value to your property, it enhances outdoor spaces with nearly limitless pattern and color choices. 

No matter the size of your project, choosing the right finish can seem overwhelming. However, we are committed to guiding you through the process and ensuring that your project is completed with precision and care.