Concrete patios have always been known for their durability and affordability—but today’s decorative concrete finishes have made concrete one of the most stylish and customizable patio materials available. Whether you want a clean modern look, textured slip-resistant surfaces, or patterns that mimic stone or pavers, decorative concrete patios give homeowners a versatile way to elevate their outdoor living space.
For Michigan homeowners, decorative concrete finishes provide both beauty and function. They withstand freeze–thaw cycles, require minimal maintenance, and offer countless design possibilities. If you're planning to upgrade your patio, choosing the right finish can transform your backyard into a polished, inviting space that complements your home.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most popular decorative concrete finishes—broom finish, exposed aggregate, and stamped concrete—along with their benefits, ideal use cases, and why professional installation matters for long-term results.
Decorative concrete bridges the gap between cost-effective durability and high-end aesthetic appeal.
Decorative finishes enhance concrete without the cost of premium materials like natural stone or pavers. Homeowners get:
It’s a smart upgrade for long-term value.
Decorative concrete finishes hold up to:
With proper installation, decorative concrete patios last 20–30+ years.
Concrete patios require simple care:
No joint sanding, weed control, or shifting like pavers.
Concrete patios pair beautifully with:
This makes it easy to create cohesive outdoor designs.
These finishes allow homeowners to achieve the exact look and texture they want.
The most classic finish—and for good reason.
After the concrete is placed and smoothed, a broom is pulled across the surface to create fine, consistent texture.
✔ Slip-resistant
✔ Simple, clean appearance
✔ Affordable
✔ Ideal for pool areas, walkways, and patios
✔ Great for Michigan winters
Best for homeowners wanting a functional, timeless patio with subtle texture.
A decorative and highly slip-resistant finish.
The top layer of concrete paste is washed away to reveal the natural stones beneath the surface.
✔ Unique, decorative appearance
✔ Excellent traction (even when wet)
✔ Very durable surface
✔ Beautiful with modern or natural designs
✔ Works well for sloped or high-traffic areas
Best for homeowners who want added visual interest and superior traction.
A popular way to mimic pavers or natural stone.
Before the concrete fully sets, rubber mats are pressed into the surface to create textures such as:
✔ High-end look at a lower cost
✔ Many pattern and color options
✔ Great for large patios
✔ Versatile design possibilities
✔ No weeds or shifting like pavers
Best for homeowners wanting a premium, decorative surface without the price of stone or pavers.
Homeowners love these creative and functional layout ideas:
Large rectangular concrete pads spaced with gravel or turf joints.
Smooth or broom-finished center with a stamped edge for detail.
Colored concrete highlights borders or pattern sections.
Adds traction and visual contrast.
Beautiful for garden settings and soft landscaping layouts.
Decorative concrete patios enhance:
They create stylish, versatile outdoor environments.
Concrete finishing requires expert timing and technique. Driftwood Landscape ensures:
Poor installation can lead to:
Professional craftsmanship ensures beauty and durability.
You may need a new decorative concrete patio if:
A decorative patio upgrade can completely transform your outdoor living experience.
Driftwood Landscape installs premium decorative concrete patios designed for long-term performance and stunning outdoor living.
