Popular Decorative Concrete Finishes

Concrete has become the most popular option for not only driveways, but also walkways, sidewalks, and as a part of exterior landscaping. One of the primary reasons for the popularity of concrete is the wide number of concrete finishing options that are now available. Here are some of the more popular concrete finishes:

Acid Staining

Acid staining involves treating the concrete with a mixture of water-soluble salts and acids, which penetrate the surface of the concrete and chemically react with the concrete to create a permanent change in the colour and appearance of the concrete. Acid staining is often used for greens, tans and browns, and the primary advantage is that the entire concrete area takes on the new finish.

Broom Finishing

Broom finishing is a texture that is applied at the time the concrete is poured. This texture has long, sweeping lines, as a result of being brushed. This finish only adds texture to the surface of the concrete, not colour.

Dyed

Dyed concrete finish is simply colour being added to the poured and cured concrete. What distinguishes dyed concrete from acid stained is that the dye does not chemically react with the concrete, meaning it remains as separate molecules. One advantage of dying over acid staining is that you have more colour options available to choose from.

Engraved

Engraved concrete is concrete that is cut after it has cured. This finish is often used for surfaces that want to take on a decorative pattern, such as having a concrete surface take on the look of tiles.

Stamped

Perhaps one of the most popular finishing choices is to have concrete that is stamped. A stamping mat is used before the concrete has fully cured to add a specific design or texture to the surface of the concrete. This is a great option for those looking to mimic stone or brick finishes.

These are some of the most popular finishing options for concrete, but there are a number of other methods available as well. Finished can also be used to revive old concrete surfaces. There is sure to be a concrete finish that meets every vision and style. When looking for your decorative concrete contractor in Vancouver, remember to go with Pacific Rock & Concrete Design.