Concrete Driveway Finishes in Columbus, OH – 9 Options Better Than Paint
There are countless possibilities for your driveway’s finish. You can opt for a decorative concrete overlay or staining treatment to give it a brand-new look. If you want to use a staining treatment, remove your old driveway and start from scratch. Stamped concrete overlays are a popular alternative. Many are realistic-looking, and some even mimic popular materials like stone and brick.
Another popular finish is the broom finish, which is achieved by brushing a stiff broom across the driveway’s surface. This finish is perfect for driveways, pool areas, patios, and other surfaces where traction is needed. It is also one of the cheapest options. If you have a limited budget, consider this option if you’d like to get a more decorative look for your driveway.
Satin finish paint has several essential qualities. Unlike regular paint, this option doesn’t require a primer and is durable enough to withstand high-traffic outdoor areas. It’s easy to maintain, requires little to no maintenance, and is highly resistant to hot tire pick-up. Unlike regular paint, it doesn’t fade quickly, either. This option is suitable for patchy concrete driveways and surrounding outdoor walls despite the low price tag. It covers a wide range of flaws and is durable.
A variety of finishes can be applied to concrete driveways. Sealing is recommended once or twice a year in the fall and spring, and it’s recommended to use it in the fall so the slabs can withstand harsh weather. Homeowners can do it at home, but you must consider the quality of the work performed by your driveway contractor. While painting might be the cheapest option, it can cause many problems over time. For instance, oil stains and dirt are almost impossible to remove from colored concrete, so regular sealing is essential.
Another alternative is a sandpaper finish. This finish involves broadcasting rock salt onto the surface and allowing it to embed in the concrete. Once a character is dry, power washing the salt-finished concrete will remove the rock salt. This finish has a very subtle texture and offers excellent skid resistance. It is suitable for outdoor areas, such as swimming pools and surrounding wet areas, and will suit a rustic decor.
In addition to painting, a concrete stain finish offers a stylish surface. Water-based acrylic stains are suitable for this application. The paint needs to be fully cured for intense color payoff. It should be sealed afterward. These finishes may sound similar, but they are pretty different. One type of finish requires a primer and a smooth floor. The other must be durable enough to withstand hot tires and heavy traffic.
Another option is texture finish. You can apply it when the slab is still soft and bleed water has stopped. You can also use ordinary brooms to apply the textured finish. Use one with stiff bristles and leave a mark on the surface. This option is durable and economical, and you can add color to the finished surface. If you’re not keen on texture, consider a stamped concrete finish.