Why is broom finish often recommended for exterior slabs?

• A. It increases surface strength.
• B. It provides slip resistance and texture for safety, reduces glare, and improves durability.
• C. It eliminates the need for curing.
• D. It is the quickest finish.

Answer: (B)

Broom finishing adds intentional texture to the surface, which is ideal for exterior slabs that people walk on or drive over and that weather outdoors. When the concrete is still workable, a broom is swept across it to leave fine ridges. Those ridges create friction, so the surface is much less slippery when wet, providing safer traction for feet and tires. The texture also scatters light rather than reflecting it like a smooth, glossy surface, which reduces glare and makes the slab easier to see in bright sun.

In terms of durability, the textured surface wears in a controlled way and resists becoming a perfectly polished layer that can be slick or show wear quickly. The rough finish helps shed water and reduces the risk of surface damage from abrasion and freeze-thaw cycles, contributing to longer-lasting performance in outdoor conditions. Curing is still important for strength, and brooming isn’t the quickest finish, but for exterior slabs the safety benefits from Slip resistance, textured surface, glare reduction, and improved wear resistance make it the preferred choice.