Concrete is a versatile construction material used in a wide range of construction applications, concrete can be molded into a number of different sizes and shapes with the help of different equipment to give different long-lasting surfaces. concretes’ strength is on the inside while its beauty and aesthetic value are on the outside which can be altered using different materials and finishing techniques. let’s look at the various concrete finishes in Kenya.
Concrete finishing refers to the process of striving to create a smooth and durable concrete surface. timing is crucial during this process and close attention must be paid to the condition of concrete because improper finishing can lead to weak, damaged, and unattractive concrete slab.
The most basic type of concrete finish is a smooth surface which is made by the use of screeds and trowels
Different Types of concrete finishes in Kenya
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Troweled concrete finish
This is the most common and popular concrete finish. A trowel is used to smooth and fine-level the surface of the concrete after it has been laid and leveled in formwork. trowels are available in both manual and mechanical types.
This type of finish is made by sprinkling rock salt on wet concrete and then washing it off leaving behind little pits in the final product. This finish is mostly used on pool decks and other wet areas in Kenya. The finish gives a decorative, rough subtle texture and skid resistance to plain concrete.
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Stamped concrete finish
This finish is obtained by pressing patterns to freshly leveled concrete to achieve the desired aesthetic designs while preserving the strength and durability of the concrete. After completion, this style resembles slates or flagstones, brick, or tile. Stamped concrete is a very innovative innovation in concrete that is mostly used on floors of car porches, driveways, and sidewalks.
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Exposed aggregate concrete finish
In this type of finish a machine is used to remove a concrete top layer that does not exceed a few millimeters thickness, therefore, exposing the edges of natural stone aggregates, and then a fine-grade protection layer is applied to provide the desired polished finish. The result is an aesthetically appealing and slip-resistant coating.
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Swirl finish
This type of finish is achieved by the spreading of concrete in a circular pattern that is evenly overlapping giving the concrete surface a visually appealing appearance preferred for outdoor applications because it provides safer walking and standing compared to the smooth finish, especially during wet seasons.
Polished finishes are obtained through the mechanical process of grinding and polishing using tools and equipment to provide distinct textures by use of a penetrant chemical.
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Colored finish
A colored finish is obtained through the addition of color pigments into the concrete mix before pouring and post-cure staining. It is crucial to preserve the pigmented concrete by adequately sealing to avoid water infiltration that can fade away the color pigments.
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Broom concrete finish
A broom finish is achieved by dragging a broom across the surface of the concrete after it has been smoothed and leveled to generate microscopic ridges that give traction control especially when wet. broom finish is used to make concrete more slip resistant.
Wrap up
It is essential to finish concrete surfaces in order to maintain the wear and tear of the surface, protection from water seepage, and have an even surface. Depending on the application of the concrete surface, there is a preferred suitable finish to use for example salt finish is suitable for the swimming pool and wet areas. Given the wide range of concrete finishes in Kenya, selecting the suitable one for your residential construction project should be a walk in the park.
