

This leaves random pock marks in the surface of the concrete. Afterward, the salt is power washed away.

The salt is embedded and the concrete is allowed to cure. To achieve this design, rock salt is broadcast onto the surface after troweling. Rock salt finishes are a retro look common in regions like Southern California. All of these will create slip resistant finishes but lighter exposures are more comfortable to walk on. Using modern retarders like Surface Deactivator, you can get finishes that barely expose the finest sands to finishes that will expose larger aggregate. Sugar-based retarders must be perfectly timed to get the right finish while modern retarders are far more controlled. After troweling the concrete, the retarder is sprayed on and allowed to sit. A slip resistant finish is more useful around pool decks or in regions that experience heavy rains or snow and ice.Įxposed aggregate finishes are usually made using some kind of chemical retarder.

Each of these creates a surface with more traction that is still visually attractive. There are three main kinds of slip resistant finishes on the market today: salt finish concrete, exposed aggregate concrete, and broom finish concrete. Among the concrete finishes for patios, non-skid finishes are the most utilitarian. Slip Resistant Finishes Various slip resistant finishes care getting more popular. This can be avoided by using more thoughtfully designed tools or by randomizing and rotating tools as much as possible. This is especially the case when stamp patterns repeat in an obvious way. Some people also complain that it looks artificial. Stamped concrete can also be difficult to shovel in climates where it snows. Unfortunately, stamped concrete does have limitations. Stamped concrete also offers a near infinite number of texture and color combinations for easy customization. This allows homeowners more time to enjoy their outdoor spaces without worrying about upkeep or replacement. Stamped concrete patios are also easier to maintain than pavers and wood decks. Stamped concrete is popular because it can replicate other traditional pavement options at a more economical price point. This creates realistic textures based on common paving materials like brick, stone, and slate. Concrete is imprinted using special urethane tools. For decades, stamped concrete (also called textured concrete) has been incredibly popular for outdoor patios, pool decks, and sidewalks. Textured Concrete Stamped concrete is the classic among decorative concrete finishes for patios. You must consider appearance and functional demands of the space. Choosing the right finish for your patio or your customer's patio is vital. Concrete finishes for patios also have their own list of utility pros and cons. Each one comes with its own unique appearance. There are many concrete finishes for patios on the market today.
