Concrete is more than just a building material — it’s a design element that can boost your home’s curb appeal, functionality, and resale value. Whether you’re installing a new driveway, patio, walkway, or retaining wall, choosing the right finish plays a big role in the final look and performance.
At Fuller’s Landscaping Concrete Division, we help Kelowna homeowners make smart decisions that match their goals, budget, and the Okanagan climate. Here’s what to consider when selecting a concrete finish for your next project.
Common Concrete Finishes for Residential Projects
1. Broom Finish
A tried-and-true classic. This method creates a light texture using a broom dragged over freshly poured concrete, leaving a clean, slip-resistant surface.
- Best for: Driveways, walkways, stairs
- Advantages: Affordable, quick to install, low maintenance
- Appearance: Subtle texture with a clean, uniform look
2. Exposed Aggregate
Ideal for a textured, decorative finish that holds up well in high-traffic areas. This technique exposes the natural stones in the concrete mix, offering grip and visual interest.
- Best for: Driveways, pool decks, patios
- Advantages: Durable, weather-resistant, great for traction
- Appearance: Pebbled surface with colour and texture variation
3. Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete mimics high-end materials like stone, brick, slate, or wood. Great for those wanting a custom aesthetic without the high price tag of natural materials.
- Best for: Patios, courtyards, feature walkways
- Advantages: Customizable patterns and colours
- Appearance: Rich, detailed designs tailored to your space
4. Smooth (Trowel) Finish
This finish is sleek and polished, often used in covered or decorative areas where slip resistance is less of a concern.
- Best for: Interior spaces, garage floors, or accent borders
- Advantages: Smooth surface, modern look
- Appearance: Clean and minimalist
5. Stained Concrete
Staining adds depth and rich colour to plain concrete surfaces. Available in earthy tones and bold hues, it can complement any home style.
- Best for: Patios, entryways, decorative borders
- Advantages: Visually appealing, UV-resistant when sealed
- Appearance: Semi-transparent colour with natural variation
How to Choose the Right Finish for Your Kelowna Home
When selecting a finish, consider these key factors:
- Functionality: High-traffic areas like driveways benefit from broom or exposed aggregate finishes for added grip.
- Style Goals: Stamped or stained concrete works well if you’re aiming to replicate natural stone or add a custom design element.
- Maintenance: Basic broom finishes require little upkeep, while stamped and stained options may need sealing and occasional resealing.
- Weather Exposure: Kelowna’s freeze-thaw cycles, UV intensity, and seasonal changes should influence your choice. Textured finishes often hold up better outdoors.
What Does Each Finish Cost in 2025?
| Finish Type | Estimated Cost per Sq. Ft. (2025) |
|---|---|
| Broom Finish | $12 – $15 |
| Exposed Aggregate | $18 – $25 |
| Stamped Concrete | $20 – $30+ |
| Smooth/Trowel Finish | $14 – $18 |
| Stained Concrete | $16 – $25+ |
Keep in mind that site access, demolition needs, and grading can also affect total cost.
Expert Advice from Fuller’s
If you’re unsure where to start, we often recommend:
- Broom Finish for affordability and year-round traction on driveways and sidewalks.
- Exposed Aggregate when durability and visual texture matter, especially in outdoor spaces.
- Stamped Concrete for patios or courtyards where aesthetics and layout are the focus.
- Staining or Borders as a way to elevate basic finishes with custom accents.
We work closely with every client to balance style, function, and budget.
Ready to Choose Your Finish?
The right concrete finish can elevate the look and feel of your entire property. Whether you’re refreshing an older surface or starting from scratch, the team at Fuller’s Landscaping Concrete Division is here to guide you through the options and deliver lasting results.
Contact us today to schedule your free on-site consultation and see why homeowners across Kelowna trust Fuller’s for quality concrete work.
