Hard trowel is the most common concrete finish for foundations. It can be troweled by hand in several passes until a desired slick finish is achieved. A power trowel is often used for large surfaces. Smooth, slick surface not meant for outdoor applications.
SEAMLESS STAMP CONCRETE
Once the surface is troweled to a smooth finish a powder or liquid release agent is sprayed on the surface and a stamp is pounded into the surface. Many different options are available for texture and color. This one can be slippery.
RANDOM SWEAT CONCRETE
This is a finish performed with a trowel on knee boards. A small amount of texture is left by holding the trowel flat and using a rotating swipe in random directions. This is considered a non slip finish.
SALT/SWEAT CONCRETE
To accomplish this finish a section of the slab is first bought to a random sweat. Ice cream salt is then cast out onto the surface and pounded in with a trowel. Non slip surface.
BROOM CONCRETE
Most common finish on the planet. Once the concrete has been tooled and has a firm set the surface is troweled to bring up moisture and then quickly broomed while moisture is still present. Hacks use water. All municipal sidewalks have a broom finish for slip resistance.
EXPOSED AGGREGATE CONCRETE
A special mix is required. The concrete is troweled to a firm, fairly smooth finish. A retarder is sprayed on the surface to keep top layer from setting. Top is washed away. Non slip #thefinishingauthority
