Concrete Finishing Techniques in Denver

With the mixture of historic, modern, and newly-constructed buildings in Denver’s cityscape, visitors and residents get an opportunity to observe multiplearchitectural styles and their approach to concrete finishing. Commercial concrete contractors in Denver utilize several finishing techniques to create a range of aesthetic effects in their concrete surfaces which can vary greatly from building to building. These techniques and their outcome contribute to an interesting mosaic of concrete across the city.

Basic concrete finishing

After concrete is poured, it undergoes an initial finishing before it is cured. This process typically involves screeds, which are essentially long pieces of wood or metal that level the surface of the concrete and help to fill any gaps. Once this portion is complete, the concrete must be floated, a finishing process which further levels and smooths the concrete surface. For large commercial concrete construction, contractors will use power trowels, which can look like riding lawn mowers that have large circulating blades that smooth the concrete. After floating, the concrete slab edges are finished for rounded or beveled edges and a desired texture can be added through broom finishing, which is important for concrete surfaces that need to provide traction.

Decorative concrete finishing

Further enhancements and variation of concrete’s aesthetics can be achieved through decorative finishing techniques. There are many options for this and they have an array of effects on the final product. Some Denver concrete will display an exposed aggregate finish, which involves washing away the top layer of cement to reveal the aggregate, while others have a polished finish, which requires concrete grinders with diamond abrasives. There are also options for altering the texture of the concrete surface with stamps that can give the slab the look of brick or stone or create a particular design. Concrete can also be infused with color, either with pigments added to the concrete mix or by applying stains after placement and initial finishing.

Conco’s mission is to be the best supplier of concrete services in the Western United States and to bring experience, expertise and quality to each project. We continue to upgrade and expand facilities to better serve the growing market for public works projects, commercial, educational, parking structures, and other construction development. If you want the best value for your project, contact us to experience the service of one of the foremost Denver concrete contractors.