The Purpose of Brooming a Driveway Finish

Simple and Cost-Effective

• Broom is the most simple kind of driveway finish. The entire process may take only 20 to 30 minutes to complete, making it more convenient and quicker than other finishing methods for homeowners. It is also more convenient for builders who are in a hurry. Usually homeowners can choose whether they want a lightly textured driveway or one with a coarser texture created by a heavier concrete broom. The time it takes for broom finishing pales in comparison to trowel or other decorative finishing methods. Therefore, less labor and fewer supplies are involved, which keeps costs down. A bull-float or leveling device should be used first to remove uneven areas in the driveway.

Highly Functional

• A broom-finished driveway is highly functional. The resulting ridges provide traction when the pavement is wet or has icy spots. Therefore, people walking on the driveway are less likely to fall or injure themselves. During snowy and/or icy weather, traction can be more easily restored with salt treatments on a broomed driveway than on driveways with smoother or more decorative surfaces. The ice may even melt more quickly as the salt works its way into the ridges. Broom-finished driveways also are easier to clean. Dirt can be removed easily by spraying broomed driveways with water from a garden hose.

Durable

• Driveways that are broom-finished are also highly durable. They tend to hold up better during the different seasons, enduring both hot and cold temperatures. A broomed driveway finish also may not crack or fade as easily as more decorative surfaces such as cobblestone. Essentially, a broomed driveway finish is more practical than other finishes for most homeowners because generally it requires less maintenance and lower repair costs.

Considerations

• Broom-finished driveways are usually more uniform with homes in neighborhoods. They also may conform with street surfaces, which are often broom-finished with coarse brushes. The rather mundane driveway surface provided by brooming is also neutral and attractive. It doesn't detract from the aesthetics of a home or its shrubs and lawn.