6 Types of Concrete Finishes – Concrete Finishing Techniques (2025 Guide)

Learn all about the most common concrete finishing methods.

The right type of concrete finish can dramatically change how your slab looks, feels, and performs.

From sleek polished floors to slip-resistant outdoor textures, understanding your options will help you choose the perfect combination of aesthetics, durability, and safety for your project.

Note: If you’re considering concrete replacement, you may have more options than you think. Sometimes, repair can save you thousands compared to full replacement. Learn about A-1’s concrete repair services.

TL;DR

There are six main types of concrete finish: trowel, broom, textured (including exposed aggregate), decorative (stamped/stenciled), polished, and salt. Smooth finishes are ideal for interiors; textured finishes add traction outdoors. Your choice should consider appearance, slip resistance, and maintenance.

In This Article

• Trowel Finish
• Broom Finish
• Textured Concrete
  
• Decorative Concrete
• Grinding & Polishing
• Salt Finish
  
• Comparison Chart: Types of Concrete Finish
• Choosing the Right Finish for Your Project
• FAQ

Trowel Finish

Troweling is the most common and basic method of finishing concrete, producing a smooth, hard surface.

Pros:

• Smooth, professional look
• Works well indoors
• Durable surface

Cons:

• Slippery when wet
• Offers little traction for outdoor applications

Manual Troweling

A hand trowel (a flat steel or magnesium blade with an attached handle) is used to smooth freshly placed concrete. The blade is pulled across the surface to create an even, sleek finish. Best for smaller slabs, detail work, or areas where machine access isn’t possible.

Power Troweling

For large areas like warehouses, garages, or big patios, a power trowel is used. This machine resembles a large fan with blades that press against the concrete, smoothing it as it spins.

Broom Finish

A broom finish adds traction without compromising durability. Once the surface is troweled smooth, a broom is drawn across it to create small, parallel ridges that add slip-resistance.

Broom-finished concrete is best for:

• Driveways
• Sidewalks
• Patios
• Pool decks and wet areas

Texturing

Adding texture increases traction and can make a surface more visually appealing.

Exposed Aggregate

This involves washing away the top “cream” layer of concrete to reveal the stones or shells beneath. The aggregates are often smooth river rock for visual appeal, unlike the rougher stones used in standard mixes.

• Attractive, natural look
• Excellent slip resistance
• Durable for outdoor use

Other Textures

You can mix in decorative aggregates such as rose quartz, basalt, or limestone for a unique effect.

Decorative Concrete

Designed to mimic more expensive materials without the cost or upkeep. Decorative concrete is best for:

• Walkways
• Patios
• Pool decks

Stamped Concrete

Panels with inlaid designs are pressed into the surface as it cures. Patterns can look like brick, stone, tile, or even wood.

• Beautiful pattern options
• Durability of concrete with an improved look
• Low maintenance compared to real stone or pavers

Stenciled Concrete

Stencils are laid on the surface, allowing color or texture to be added in patterns without the depth of stamping.

Grinding and Polishing

Concrete grinders with diamond abrasives remove surface imperfections, then progressively finer grits polish it to the desired sheen to transform cured concrete into a sleek, glossy surface.

This finishing technique is common in:

• Big-box retail spaces
• Grocery stores
• Modern interiors
• Showrooms

Pro Tip: Ground and polished concrete is easy to maintain and, surprisingly, more slip-resistant than non-polished concrete.

Salt Finish

Rock salt is applied to wet concrete and then washed away after the surface has set. This leaves small pits in the surface, creating a subtle texture.

Salt-finished concrete:

• Adds slip resistance
• Works well in pool decks, patios, and walkways
• Is a low-cost decorative option

Types of Concrete Finishes Compared

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Project

• Outdoor, high-traffic: Choose broom or exposed aggregate for safety.
• Indoor, modern look: Go for polished concrete for a sleek, low-maintenance finish
• Decorative statement: Stamped or stenciled designs offer visual impact without sacrificing strength.
• Poolside safety: Salt finish, broom finish, or exposed aggregate keeps surfaces slip-resistant.

Repair Instead of Replace

If your current concrete is cracked, uneven, or worn, but still structurally sound, repair may be smarter than starting over.

A-1 Concrete Leveling can:

• Lift and level sunken slabs
• Seal joints and cracks
• Clean and seal surfaces for protection

Request your free estimate.

Still Deciding?

• Is Leveling Cheaper Than Concrete Replacement?
• 8 Risks to Consider Before Replacing Your Concrete
• When Is Concrete Too Far Gone for Concrete Leveling?

Frequently Asked Questions

Which concrete finish is most durable?

Indoors, polished or troweled finishes can last decades with minimal upkeep. Outdoors, broom and exposed aggregate withstand weather and wear best.

Can I apply a new finish to existing concrete?

Yes, methods like overlays, grinding, staining, or stamping can refresh older slabs. However, they often are considered temporary fixes.

Do all finishes require sealing?

Not all, but sealing boosts longevity and resists staining, especially for exterior slabs and decorative or exposed finishes.