We offer three concrete finishes for patios, driveways and walkways: broom finish, exposed aggregate and stamped or decorative concrete. With all of the customization options available – for example, coloring your concrete to match your home’s trim, or, opting for a stamp pattern that resembles your chimney’s veneer – concrete’s popularity has grown over the years.
Broom finish – also referred to as brushed finish – is the most basic option of the three. It’s less labor intensive than the other two finishes, and therefore the least expensive. Broom finish involves pulling a purpose-made broom over the surface of the fresh concrete, once the concrete has been levelled. The resulting texture varies, depending on the hardness or softness of the broom that’s used. A hard or stiff broom results in a coarser texture, while a softer broom achieves a lighter texture. The texture, in turn, determines what kind of traction the finish will give, an important factor we consider when constructing a concrete driveway.
Broom finish concrete by Northwest Construction & Landscape, LLC
Exposed aggregate concrete is a common finish for sidewalks, walkways and driveways. The concrete mix used for this finish contains a specific amount and type of aggregate such as pea gravel. After the concrete has initially set, the exposed aggregate surface is revealed through a process that involves washing away the surface of the concrete with brooms and a water hose. Washing away the top layer of concrete exposes the internal aggregates of the concrete mix, hence the term “exposed aggregate.” Our exposed aggregate concrete estimates always include a line item for an acid wash treatment, which brightens the pea gravel stones and removes the milky film from the surface.
Exposed aggregate concrete by Northwest Construction & Landscape, LLC
Stamped concrete, or decorative concrete, offers the most customization options in terms of pattern and color. Stamped concrete replicates more costly materials such as flagstone, tile, brick and even wood, adding an artistic touch to a patio or driveway. Stamps and texture mats are placed and arranged in a specific manner, so that the pattern remains consistent to the eye. The mats are tamped as they are placed so that the concrete is imprinted with the pattern. For consumers who desire a more dynamic look, borders can be added to the design, and color can be added to the concrete mix or applied after the concrete has been finished.
Ashlar slate concrete by Northwest Construction & Landscape, LLC
If you’re interested in meeting with us to discuss your concrete patio or concrete driveway, give us a call at 360-697-3215 or email us at info@northwestcl.com.
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Thanks for reading our blog. Northwest Construction & Landscape, LLC is a Kitsap County landscaping company that offers landscaping, decorative concrete and lawn maintenance services to homes and businesses across Kitsap and Pierce counties.