The broom finish is the original concrete pool deck surface — and for good reason. The light texture left by dragging a stiff broom across fresh concrete creates just enough grip to be safe when wet, without the discomfort of coarser aggregate finishes underfoot. What surprises most homeowners is how clean a well-done broom finish looks. In a cool gray or warm buff color, it reads as intentional rather than default. It also pairs exceptionally well with modern pool coping and tile because it doesn't compete visually with the water or the pool surround design. For a pool deck that needs to handle heavy foot traffic, chemical splashing, and daily wet/dry cycles, a sealed broom-finish slab is one of the most durable and lowest-maintenance surfaces you can install. Cost: $6–10/sq ft for a standard broom finish, or $8–12/sq ft with a color wash added. PourCanvas can show you how different color and finish options might look around your specific pool shape.