Whether you’re planning a patio, driveway, pool deck, or outdoor living space, the finish you choose for your concrete has a big impact on both function and style. Concrete isn’t just a gray slab anymore — with the right finish, it becomes a design feature that complements your backyard space.
At Texas Backyard Living, we install a variety of concrete finishes that not only look great but are built to perform in Texas weather. Here’s your guide to the most popular options and how to choose the right one for your project.
🧱 Gray Broom (Brush) Finish — Classic & Practical
This is the most common and affordable concrete finish. After the concrete is poured and leveled, a broom is dragged across the surface to leave a series of fine lines or grooves.
Why it’s great:
- Excellent slip resistance — especially important around wet areas like pool decks or patios.
- Durable and low-maintenance.
- Timeless, practical look that blends with any outdoor space.
Best for: Driveways, walkways, patios, and outdoor entertainment spaces where traction and durability matter.
🧂 Salt Finish — Subtle Texture with a Natural Look
A salt finish adds gentle texture to concrete by broadcasting coarse rock salt across the surface while it’s still wet. Once the concrete partially sets, the salt is washed away, leaving behind tiny pits that create a natural stone-like texture.
Why homeowners love it:
- Adds visual interest without bold patterns.
- Good slip resistance while still feeling smooth underfoot.
- Works beautifully around pool decks and patios.
Best for: Pool areas, walkways, and yard spaces where you want texture that’s a bit more decorative than broom finish.
🪨 Exposed Aggregate — Natural & Textured
Exposed aggregate finishes reveal the stones or decorative aggregate beneath the surface of the concrete. This is done by removing the top layer after the concrete has cured slightly, showing off a pebbled, textured surface.
Benefits:
- Highly slip-resistant and durable.
- Aesthetic appeal that feels organic and timeless.
- Great for blending with landscaping features.
Best for: Driveways, walkways, patios, and pool decks that need both function and a natural design vibe.
🎨 Stamped Concrete — High-Style, Customizable Look
Stamped concrete offers some of the most design-forward options. While the concrete is still wet, molds (or “stamps”) are pressed into the surface to create patterns that mimic natural stone, brick, tile, or wood. Color can be added during installation or with surface treatments afterward.
Why it’s popular:
- High-end appearance at a fraction of the cost of real stone or pavers.
- Tons of patterns and colors to match your backyard design.
- Works well in patios, pool decks, and outdoor living spaces.
Best for: Areas where you want a custom, decorative focal point.
🧠 How to Choose the Right Finish
When deciding on a concrete finish, ask yourself:
- Function first: Will this be a high-traffic area? Near a pool? Driveway?
- Style: Do you want a subtle texture or a design statement?
- Maintenance: Some finishes like stamped concrete look amazing but need regular sealing for best performance.
Concrete is one of the most versatile hardscaping materials — and with the right finish, it can boost both the usability and beauty of your outdoor space.
At Texas Backyard Living, we install a variety of concrete finishes that not only look great but are built to perform in Texas weather. Here’s your guide to the most popular options and how to choose the right one for your project.