The finish is what you see every day, and it changes how a driveway or patio wears, how slippery it gets and how much looking after it needs.
Broom finish
A stiff broom is dragged across the wet concrete to leave fine ridges. It's the most common finish in Oxford County: affordable, good grip in rain and snow, and easy to repair. It's plain, but a smooth trowelled border can dress it up.
Exposed aggregate
The top layer of cement paste is washed off before it sets, showing the stones in the mix. It's very grippy, hides dirt and tire marks well and has a natural look. It costs more than broom finish and is harder to patch invisibly.
Stamped concrete
Patterns like slate, flagstone, ashlar or brick are pressed into the surface, usually with colour added. It gives the look of stone or pavers in one solid slab. It costs the most and needs resealing every two or three years to keep its colour and protect it from salt. It can be slippery when wet without a non-slip additive in the sealer.
Coloured concrete
Colour can be mixed into the concrete or added on top, with any finish. Earth tones hold up best. Colour hides some stains but makes patches harder to match.
Quick comparison
- Lowest cost: broom finish
- Best grip: exposed aggregate or broom
- Most decorative: stamped
- Least upkeep: broom or exposed aggregate
Whatever the finish
Base, thickness, air entrainment and joints matter more than the finish for how long the slab lasts. A beautiful stamped patio on a bad base will crack like any other.
Not sure which suits your home? Send the form at the top of this page and a local contractor can show you samples for your driveway or patio.