The finishes of concrete driveway finishes vary greatly depending on their intended use. Some people prefer slick troweled finishes, while others opt for seeded aggregate. Pervious concrete is the most common type of driveway finish, but sandwashed and seeded aggregate options are also available. Each of these finishes has its benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll explore the various options available to you. After all, the right choice will depend on your home’s desired look and function.
Pervious concrete
While pervious concrete has many great properties, it can be a difficult project to install. Pervious concrete requires a proper pavement design that allows water to percolate through the surface and be temporarily stored. The process starts with pervious concrete being delivered by conventional ready-mix trucks. The material is then poured into standard forms, and compacted with a heavy steel roller. Once poured, pervious concrete is a durable and long-lasting finish that can be combined with any color or finish.
The main benefits of using pervious concrete are two-fold: it reduces stormwater runoff and the need to retain water. Second, it can be tinted to produce attractive hues. Furthermore, it can be saw cut or stamped for interesting decorative concrete textures. Finally, it is wheelchair-accessible.
Slick troweled
Slick troweled concrete is a great option for a driveway because it provides a concrete finish at a low rate. This type of finish is applied with either a steel hand trowel or a machine. This type of finish is common for garage floors, basements, warehouse floors, and even covered front porches. However, it can be slippery in some areas. A good alternative to a slick troweled finish is a broom finish.
This style of concrete finish is very similar to the finish used on driveways in large commercial buildings. The application process is the only difference between this type of finish and a smooth trowel finish. It requires more time and labor to complete than other finishes, but the results are worth it. The concrete must be hard enough for the finisher to reach the surface. Slick troweled concrete is also easy to clean. It can be hosed down or mopped.
Sandwashed
The sandwashed concrete driveway finishes are similar to exposed aggregate but with a softer texture. Unlike exposed aggregate, sandwashed concrete offers traction. In addition, motifs can be added to the concrete. The variety of finishes is wide, and the resulting surface can be customized to suit your style and preferences. Read on to learn more about these finishes. We hope this article has helped you make an informed decision about the perfect driveway finish for your home.
When choosing a driveway finish, sandwashed concrete has several benefits. The texture is similar to that of exposed aggregate concrete but with a higher percentage of pebble-sized sand particles. Once the mix is prepared, the top layer of cement is removed, revealing the fine sand underneath. The result is a surface that’s soft and comfortable to walk on yet offers excellent traction when wet. Sandwashed concrete is an attractive option for any style of home and yard.
