Concrete Installations > The Sand Wash Finish

The Sand Wash Finish: A Budget Friendly Option

The sand wash finish is a budget-friendly option for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their space without breaking the bank. This finish involves lightly sanding the surface of the material, creating a subtle texture that adds depth and character to any room. Whether need work renovating your home or on a commercial project, the sand wash finish offers a cost-effective way to achieve a high-end look. Not only does it provide an affordable alternative to more expensive finishes, but it also requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for busy households or high-traffic areas. With its versatility and affordability, the sand wash finish is a smart choice for anyone looking to elevate their space on a budget.

Play With the Sandy Texture

Water-wise landscaping has become a standard now that the city utilities offer discounts on xeriscaped lawns. Often people can get lost when thinking of how to keep it interesting but what better than a sandy walkway to tie in with river rock and those native plants. Think of a lake-front beach resort when considering sand washed concrete. All that is needed to be one step closer to that summer getaway is a custom outdoor bar, swinging hammock and activity area. For a natural camping look consider a boulder seat-wall and firepit or a sand textured Tiki Lounge patio. Maybe a jetted tub is just what is needed to give that feel of a hidden away hot spring. Take a look through our gallery to get some ideas on what has been done before and be sure to contact us if you have any further questions.

Our Expertise in the Field

Our expertise in the field is what stands out among the quality work done with Dunee LLC. Our team is known for getting to a job and performing like clockwork. When laying a new concrete project we make sure to be meticulous when clearing out and grading the area. A sand wash finish requires precise timing to ensure the quality of colors are not jeopardized. Our landscaping team understands the nature of concrete and they use specific techniques during the concrete curing process to ensure a quality result. Afterwards we make sure to give the the customer specific instruction on how to care for the final product. For instance we recommend not using a steel shovel on any stamped concrete and can give alternative tips on how to care for the concrete so it lasts your household a lifetime.

Sand Washed Adds Traction to Each Step

Walkways, water features and pool decks are usually what comes to mind when thinking of a sand washed finish. Its sandy texture leads people to think of bare feet and flip-flops during the hot summer days but it is not limited to these few applications. A stamp and custom color theme can be used to blend a sand finish in with any aspect of the entire landscape. The sandy look is pleasant on the eyes and adds a soft visual appeal which can help other features stand out. The texture can also be purely utilitarian and serve as traction when opening up to the rest of the yard. So, even though summer safety might be the first thing to consider when designing kids play areas, keep in mind that there are many uses for a sandy finish. It serves as extra character and dimension to a yard and works great for traction when the barbeque and beverages come out during football season.

Check out more Sand Wash Finish images on our Pinterest page >>

Great for Walkways, Pool Decks and Driveways

A sand finish can be applied on almost any type of concrete install. It works great for walkways, pool decks, patios and driveways. The sand wash finish adds an element of texture to the surface that makes things a little more ‘grippy’ when walking upon it. This is especially useful in areas that will receive snow, ice or a regular amount of water due to a water feature or pool. The sand finish looks great too and specifically stands out when incorporated with concrete borders that are either left unfinished or textured with a stamp.

How does a concrete sand wash finish hold up over time compared to other finishes?

A concrete sand wash finish is highly durable and can withstand the test of time. Compared to other finishes, it offers excellent resistance to wear, weathering, and fading. With proper maintenance and care, a concrete sand wash finish can retain its beauty and functionality for many years.

Sand Concrete Finish Options

Traditionally the sand wash finish has been used along pool-decks for added traction around the pool. It is a style that works well for both bare feet and shoed up soles. It has become much more popular, as of late, in decorative concrete applications. When installed the texture should be consistent with a gritty touch. Light applications could remain unsealed but for most sand finished surfaces a sealant should be used.

Discrepancies can come from the type of sand being used. In areas where multiple types of sand are abundant the price point isn’t much of an issue. Desert sand, for instance is rich in colors ranging from red to yellow. Beach sand, on the other-hand is going to be creamy or caramel in color. Dundee is based in Spokane where sand discrepancies are not as abundant. Sand is pretty much sand here. Though, with the silica sand a clear wash can be made keeping initial colors of concrete true. Colored concrete is an excellent way to enhance the appeal of a concrete install on a budget. Finishing that off with the gritty texture a sand finish provides the wow factor is shocking.

Sandwash Stamped and Stamped Borders

Other areas for implementing a sand finish are practically limitless. One application that specializes in is using the sand washed finish on Stamped Concrete. Typically stamped concrete can appear glossy which causes the mind to hesitate any sure steps during wet weather months. A sand finish on this concrete is one of the best applications that can be used to gain traction. Not only that, but a combination of sand washed finished concrete and standard stamps can really outline the beauty of an install. This works great for walkways, driveways and patios alike.

Stamped borders are increasingly popular among installs because they offer a way to include the beauty of stamped concrete at a budgeted price. For walkways with stamped borders a sand wash finish is an excellent option. This will provide extra traction along the sides with the luxurious visual quality of stamped concrete.

Can you customize the color and texture of a concrete sand wash finish?

Yes, you can customize the color and texture of a concrete sand wash finish. By using different pigments and aggregates, you can achieve a wide range of colors and textures to suit your design preferences. This allows for endless possibilities in creating unique and personalized concrete surfaces.

Thinking about different finishes for your landscape project?

Dundee is a full service concrete and landscaping contracting company. We are known for excellent craftsmanship with an efficient turnaround time. Consider hiring us for any job large to small. We are familiar with installing even the basic concrete sidewalk and of course, complete custom landscapes. Our staff is exceptional in the field and fortunately our pricing is still competitive. We offer free quotes and can help take you though some of the tough decisions when considering landscaping for all four seasons of the Inland Northwest.

Learn More About Sand Washed Finishes

Here are some useful links to help you gain more knowledge about the Sand Wash Finish style.

How is a concrete sand wash finish different from other types of concrete finishes?

A concrete sand wash finish is achieved by washing away the top layer of concrete to expose the sand particles. This creates a textured and rustic appearance, different from other concrete finishes like polished or stamped concrete. The sand wash finish adds depth and character to concrete surfaces.

What are the benefits of using a concrete sand wash finish?

A concrete sand wash finish offers several benefits. It provides a textured and slip-resistant surface, making it ideal for outdoor spaces like patios and pool decks. Additionally, it adds a decorative touch to concrete surfaces, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the area.

What are some examples of projects that would benefit from a concrete sand wash finish?

Some examples of projects that would benefit from a concrete sand wash finish include patios, driveways, walkways, pool decks, and outdoor living spaces. The textured surface provides both aesthetic appeal and slip-resistance, making it ideal for areas where safety and durability are important.

What is the primary purpose of sand washing?

The principal purpose of sand washing in concrete finish is to expose the aggregates and create a textured, non-slip surface. It also helps to remove any excess cement paste, resulting in a more durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.