Salt finished concrete is a textured concrete surface made by pressing rock salt into freshly poured concrete and then washing it away after the concrete has set. This leaves behind small pits and indentations which give the surface a slightly rough look and add grip. The process starts while the concrete is still soft but firm enough to hold the salt in place. The salt is spread evenly over the surface and then lightly pressed in with a roller or trowel. Once the concrete has hardened the salt is washed away leaving behind the textured effect. The finish can be left natural or sealed to enhance the colour and protect it from wear.
Yes salt finished concrete improves slip resistance because the small pits left behind by the salt create a textured surface that provides better grip. It is a popular choice for outdoor areas like patios and pool decks where a bit of extra traction is needed but without the roughness of a broom finish. The texture is subtle enough to be comfortable underfoot but still helps reduce the risk of slipping when the surface is wet. If more grip is needed a sealer with an anti slip additive can be applied to enhance the effect while still keeping the natural look of the concrete.
| Feature | Salt Finished Concrete | Broom Finished Concrete | Stamped Concrete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can it be Coloured or Stained? | Yes, can be coloured with integral pigments, stains, or dyes. Acid stains create a weathered look. | Yes, but stains and dyes may appear less vibrant due to rougher texture. | Yes, often coloured with integral pigments or surface-applied stains for decorative effects. |
| Texture & Slip Resistance | Moderate texture; smoother than a broom finish but provides some grip. | High texture; rough surface for maximum slip resistance. | Varied texture; depends on the pattern but can be sealed for grip. |
| Visual Appearance | Subtle indentations create a slightly textured, decorative look. | Linear broom marks create a simple, utilitarian appearance. | Highly decorative, mimics stone, brick, or wood patterns. |
| Durability & Maintenance | Durable and low maintenance; occasional resealing recommended. | Very durable; requires occasional cleaning and resealing. | Durable but requires more maintenance due to decorative sealing. |
| Best Applications | Patios, pool decks, driveways, and outdoor walkways. | Sidewalks, driveways, and commercial spaces where slip resistance is key. | Decorative patios, driveways, and areas needing a high-end look. |
| Cost Comparison | Moderate cost, slightly higher than broom finishes. | Lowest cost due to minimal finishing requirements. | Higher cost due to stamping process and decorative treatments. |
No you cannot do a proper salt finish on existing concrete because the texture is created by pressing salt into the surface while the concrete is still fresh. Once concrete has set there is no way to get the same effect since the salt needs to be embedded and then washed away.
If you want a similar look on existing concrete there are other options. A light sandblasting or acid etching can create a slightly pitted surface but it will not have the same natural variation as a true salt finish. Another option is applying a thin layer of screed over the existing concrete and finishing it with salt before it sets. This can give the same effect as a fresh salt finish as long as the screed is thick enough to hold the texture. If the goal is to add texture for slip resistance a broom finish or non slip sealer might be a better choice.
The indentations left by the salt in a salt finished concrete surface are usually shallow, typically around 1 to 3 millimeters deep depending on the size of the salt used and how firmly it is pressed into the concrete. Rock salt naturally varies in shape and size, so the pits left behind will not be uniform, which gives the surface a more natural textured look.
If the salt is pressed in too lightly, the effect may be barely noticeable, while pressing too hard can create deeper indentations that might hold water or dirt. The key is getting the right balance so the finish provides texture and slip resistance without making the surface rough or uneven. When done properly, the indentations are subtle enough to be comfortable underfoot but still help improve grip, especially in wet areas.
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