Concrete is the most important aspect of almost every construction. It is a mix of cement, sand aggregate and water in a specified ratio. Concrete can be moulded to take any shape. Concrete gives strength to any structure from the inside and beautifies them from the outside. For this various types of finishing are given to the outer part of the concrete cast.
What are the types of Concrete Finishings?
Types of concrete finishing are:
Floating or trowelling is the most commonly used finishing technique. In this method concrete mix after being poured into the mould is flattened to a fine and smooth surface using tools like screed, trowel and aluminium channels. Metal blades or strips attached to these tools do the job of giving a sharp edge finish to the concrete. In bigger projects, mechanised trowels are used.
Broomed concrete finishing is done by drawing brooms over freshly trowelled concrete surfaces. This leaves behind trails of broom creating small ridges which give traction control and resistance against slip especially when the floor is wet.
3. Exposed aggregate finish
Exposed aggregate finish is obtained by removing the top layer of concrete. This is done to get an appealing look and anti-slip coat. Apart from coarse aggregate, Rose quartz, limestone, dark grey or black basalt, red or blue granite, tinted glass, and even seashells are used to give a different fancy look. Iron objects can discolour the concrete hence should be avoided. A power floater and diamond polisher should be used after the concrete is partially cured.
4. Salt Finish
Rolling coarse rock salt on freshly laid concrete and then washing it off with water leaves tiny pits on the surface, this finish obtained using rock salt is called salt finish. This finish makes the surface not just eye-catching but rough subtle skid resistance too. Used in wet surroundings like swimming pools, fountains etc.
5. Stamped Finish
Stamped finish on concrete is done by stamping the wet concrete with moulds or frames of desired distinct shape and pattern. Stamped finish generally resembles slates, flagstones, brick, tile, or wood. It is one of the most intellectual innovations where footpaths, pathways, and driveways are given stamped finish which gives them a distinct look at almost zero cost.
6. Coloration of concrete finishes
To get the coloured concrete finish, colours are required which when mixed with concrete give concrete a distinct and desired colour. This coloured concrete gives a look matching the surrounding.
Colour pigments packets when mixed with concrete before pouring provides stunning colours to the concrete surface.
Colour changes can be done by staining the concrete which requires staining agents. Acid is the most commonly used staining agent. Stains are applied to concrete to get the intense coloured finish, with sealant applied on top of it to provide protection
7. Swirl Concrete Finishes
When freshly laid concrete is spread in a circular evenly overlapping pattern, it gives a swirl-like aesthetic pleasant look. This is a swirl concrete finish. Ridges formed provide anti-slip resistance, beautifying the surface especially outdoors.
8. Polished Surface Concrete Finishes
Polished surface concrete finish is attained by grinding and polishing the surface using grinding and polishing tools. Penetrant chemicals are used to achieve distinct textures on the surface. This is one of the most effective and most widely used concrete finishing methods.