If you are having a concrete surface, such as a patio, walkway or driveway, installed, there are different techniques that can be done to finish the concrete. These different techniques help to give the concrete character and style, while also providing various benefits. Some of the most common finishing techniques are stamping, staining and rock salting. If you are considering the rock salt technique, which gives your concrete the illusion of small, pitted holes in the surface, you may have many questions about it. Getting answers to the questions you have allows you to decide if this is the best concrete finishing service for your new concrete service. Here are the questions you may have as well as the answers. 

How is a Rock Salt Concrete Surface Created? 

A rock salt concrete surface is created with actual rock salt. After your concrete surface is poured and smoothed, a concrete professional uses a roller to roll thick rock salt into the concrete. This is the same type of rock salt that is typically used to melt ice from a surface. The rock salt remain in place until the concrete hardens around it. Once the concrete is hardened and cured, a power washer is used to dissolve the salt. What is left behind is a concrete surface with small holes in it created by the rock salt. 

What Are the Benefits to a Rock Salt Concrete Finish? 

The biggest benefit to a rock salt concrete finish is that it gives the concrete surface texture. This helps to ensure the concrete surface does not become too slippery when it is wet or icy out and that the individual stepping on the surface has some traction. Another benefit to this concrete finishing service is that it is one of the more affordable concrete finishing services. If you want a concrete surface due to its durability, but don't want a plain looking slab, rock salt finishing can give your concrete a unique look that is cheaper than stamping or etching concrete. 

What are the Disadvantages to a Rock Salt Concrete Finish? 

The biggest disadvantage to a rock salt concrete finish is that there is no room for error when the salt is being rolled onto the concrete. If an error is made, the surface can have permanent imperfections. As such, you need to find a contractor who has experience with this type of concrete finishing service. 

A rock concrete surface is perfect to install in places where concrete can get wet, such as around a pool or in climates where ice is prevalent. If you are looking to learn more about this product, or want to get started on your rock salt concrete project, contact a concrete services professional today.