When designing a concrete patio, one of the first finish decisions is: broom finish or smooth trowel finish? Both are widely used, but they perform and look different — and the right choice depends on where and how you use the space.
Broom Finish: Practical and Popular
A broom finish is created by dragging a stiff broom across the freshly floated concrete surface, creating a series of fine lines that add texture. This is the most common finish for outdoor concrete for a good reason: the texture provides traction when the surface is wet. For patios exposed to rain, sprinkler water, or pool splash, broom finish is the safer and more practical choice. It's also the most affordable finish option and ages well — it hides minor surface wear and dirt better than smooth concrete.
Smooth Trowel Finish: Clean and Contemporary
A smooth trowel finish produces a flat, dense, visually clean surface. It looks modern and sharp, and it's easier to sweep and clean. The tradeoff: it can become slippery when wet — particularly on areas that don't dry quickly. Smooth finish works well for covered patios, screened porches, and indoor slabs. For open, exposed patios, it requires more careful use in wet conditions.
A Middle Ground: Light Broom or Salt Finish
If you want more texture than a heavy broom but less than exposed aggregate, a light broom or salt finish is a good middle ground. A salt finish — where rock salt is pressed into the surface then dissolved with water — creates a subtle, dimpled texture with an attractive appearance. It's popular in warmer climates and works well on pool decks and patios.
Our Recommendation
For most open-air patios in Fort Smith and Western Arkansas, broom finish is the smart choice. For covered outdoor spaces, smooth or light-broom finish opens up some attractive options. We'll show you examples during your free estimate — call (479) 551-1642.
