Water softener salt crystals 1/8" to 3/8" in size are broadcast onto the fresh concrete.

With the assistance of low pressure washer and soft bristle scrub broomThe rest of the concrete is fine as the retarding agent is not deep penetrating and it only affects the upper surfaceThe removal of the cement paste reveals all the beautiful aggregates that otherwise would be hidden in a typical concrete projectThe benefits of Exposed Aggregates is the pure beauty, uniqueness and elegance of the finished concrete projectThe pitfall is that one wants to be careful with the size aggregate they chose.The smaller the better because the larger the stone the more space in between the stones for dirt and debris to collect, making furniture harder to move along with walking in formal wear more difficult.A variety of colors that can be placed into the concrete as dyes and pigments along with the release agents that assist the stamps from not sticking to the concrete. Water is the easiest component to over proportion.The more water one uses in the mix the more fluid the mixture becomes.It becomes easier to mix, work with and – to a point – easier to finish. Slick Troweled Concrete; Broom Finished Concrete; Exposed Aggregate Concrete; Stamped Concrete; Here is a basic description of each. Smooth the surface of the patches and allow them to dry completely.Use a paint roller with a telescoping handle to apply a coat of masonry primer.

Salt finishes are attractive … But if you already have a plain, gray concrete patio cured in place, you are not out of options.

Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Allow the concrete to dry completely for 24 to 48 hours before walking on or touching the patio surface.Completely cover your bare skin with clothing.

Watch the acid as it meets the concrete to ensure that bubbling occurs on contact. Put on a paper mask or respirator and safety goggles.Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the concrete patio with a mixture of outdoor cleanser and water. A roller is then used to press the salt crystals into the concrete.

Paint will completely cover the concrete, disguising the look of the material completely.

When the concrete has set the rock salt is washed away leaving small pitholes in the concrete that create an interesting finish.

It also enhances its stain resistance and makes it easier to maintain.

There is a multitude of choices across the board that will suit your needs and tastesThe YouTube video below will provide much greater insight into what all goes into a Stamped Concrete Patio projectHaving a basic understanding of what concrete is and the concrete finishes that are available to youIn addition to the above information the purpose and budget of your concrete project are major factors in finalizing your decision.While concrete does have many similar characteristics at first glance, concrete is quite the beast.Humidity, ground conditions, temperature, length of time the concrete was inside the concrete truck.How long to get the concrete on the ground and more are all factors in the results of your concrete.There is nothing about concrete one can simply phone in Salt Finish: This finish is often used around swimming pools, or in conjunction with terra cotta tile (think a Santa Barbara city Sidewalk). Slick Troweled Concrete

Apply a second coat and allow it to dry.Use a clean roller to apply a coat of epoxy paint just as you did the primer.

Stain will add color to the concrete will still allowing the natural masonry texture to show through.Wash the concrete patio with a degreasing cleaner and a scrub brush.

You can improve the look of the concrete around your home in many different ways. Let the concrete dry for 24 to 48 hours before walking on or touching the surface of the patio.No matter what finish you choose, apply masonry sealant to your concrete to maintain its appearance.Muriatic acid is caustic. Rock Salt Finish.

Paint will completely cover the concrete, disguising the look of the material completely. Jan 19, 2015 - Stamped Concrete, Stained Concrete, Overlaid Concrete, Resurfaced concrete.

Always use care when working with this product.Jourdan Townsend has been writing since childhood. Work in long, even lines. We would strongly recommend going with the honed concrete instead of the grind and seal (G&S) for several reasons.

Her articles appear in a collection of student works at the University of Oklahoma as well as in the school's "Honors College Journal."