Concrete makes for one of the best commercial flooring solutions in Denver. When people think of concrete, however, they typically imagine it to be this flat, grey finish. Commercial concrete flooring can be so much more than that, offering not only different colors, but textures, to elevate the visual aesthetics of your space.
Types of Surface Textures for Commercial Concrete
There are many surface textures available for commercial concrete flooring, each one offering different visual appeal. Examples of possible concrete surface textures include:
- Broom Finish – One of the most common textures, a broom finish is achieved by pulling a broom over freshly laid concrete. This technique creates a rough surface that provides excellent traction, even in wet conditions.
- Stamped Concrete – To mimic other materials like brick, stone, or wood, stamped concrete is an ideal choice. Patterns are pressed into the freshly poured concrete using large stamps. This method is popular for creating decorative patios, walkways, and other outdoor spaces, but can be used for indoor commercial flooring as well. .
- Exposed Aggregate – This texture involves removing the top layer of cement to reveal the decorative stones (aggregate) beneath. The result is a highly durable and slip-resistant surface ideal for driveways and walkways, though not used indoors as often.
- Salt Finish – Used primarily around pools and other wet areas, a salt finish is achieved by applying rock salt to fresh concrete and then washing it away after the concrete sets, leaving a pitted texture.
- Polished Concrete – Achieving a smooth and high-gloss finish, polished concrete is created by mechanically grinding the surface and then polishing it with progressively finer grinding tools. Sealers or conditioners are often applied to enhance its appearance and longevity.
- Trowel Finish – For a smooth texture, concrete surfaces can be finished with a hand or power trowel. This method compresses the surface, creating a hard, dense slab that is functional and visually appealing for interior spaces.
- Swirl Finish – This decorative texture is achieved by using a hand trowel in an overlapping circular motion, creating a pattern of small arcs or swirls. It adds aesthetic interest and improves traction.
Most textures, like broom and trowel finishes, are applied directly to the concrete during the pouring process. This approach involves using tools to shape and style the concrete before it fully sets.
Techniques such as polishing or staining are applied after the concrete has cured. These methods can enhance both the texture and color of the concrete, offering a customized finish. They can also be completed on existing concrete, almost as a form of repair, when the surface of the concrete is no longer aesthetically pleasing.
Still, other textures require additives mixed into the concrete before pouring. For example, adding a retarder can facilitate the exposed aggregate finish by slowing the curing process on the surface, making it easier to remove the top layer without affecting the underlying concrete.
Contact CCR to Discuss Your Desired Textures
The choice of texture for commercial concrete depends largely on the intended use, the desired aesthetic of the space, and the budget for the project. From enhancing safety by improving traction to boosting visual appeal through decorative finishes, texturing techniques offer a range of possibilities. If you’d like to discuss your project to see if this type of texturing is right for you, please contact CCR.
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If you’re looking for concrete floor refinishing, concrete staining, epoxy coatings, concrete repair or other services, our team can provide high-quality, effective solutions for auto repair shop flooring in Denver, Colorado, and the surrounding areas.
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