What finishing options are available for coloured concrete?
Coloured concrete can be finished in a variety of ways to enhance its appearance, texture, and slip resistance. These finishing techniques allow homeowners and designers to customise surfaces like driveways, patios, and paths to suit different styles and functional needs.
Popular coloured concrete finishes include:
- Broom finish: A textured surface created by dragging a broom across the wet concrete. It provides excellent slip resistance and is ideal for driveways and paths.
- Trowel finish: A smooth, polished surface achieved using a steel trowel. This finish is best suited for indoor coloured concrete floors or low-traffic outdoor areas.
- Stamped finish: Patterns are pressed into the concrete using moulds before it sets. Stamped coloured concrete can mimic stone, brick, or tile for decorative appeal.
- Exposed aggregate: The top layer of concrete is washed away to reveal decorative stones or pebbles. This finish adds texture and visual interest, especially when combined with coloured concrete mixes.
- Polished finish: The surface is ground and polished to a high sheen, often used for coloured concrete floors in commercial or architectural settings.
- Salt finish: Rock salt is applied to the surface and then washed away, leaving small pits for a subtle texture. This is often used around pool surrounds.
Each finish can be paired with Boral’s Colori® coloured concrete mixes to achieve a unique look while maintaining durability and UV resistance. For best results, consult with a professional concreter to choose the right finish for your project’s location and design goals.
