Exposed aggregate, to be concise, is a type of finish in which the top layer is removed to expose aggregates, such as stones and sand. To achieve this, chemical retardants are used on the surface or a water wash technique. These methods effectively strip the layer without causing any negative impact on the aggregate. Both solid concrete (with a standard wrought finish) and aggregate inputs are durable and long-lasting options.
Aggregate driveways are commonly referred to as exposed aggregates because gravel (or stone chips, in some cases) in the concrete mix is partially exposed on the finished surface. The added variations allow you to add color and texture to your entrance, creating an attractive design that coordinates with your home and landscape. A standard concrete finish is relatively smooth and, for a doorway, generally includes a broom finish for added slip resistance. For those who don't know what the exposed aggregate is? It's the concrete surface you see that has the stones exposed through the top.
If you choose to install an exposed aggregate concrete driveway in Brisbane Northside, you will get an entrance with a more textured and visually noticeable surface. Most concrete entrances, unless they have been patterned or colored, have a flat, gray finish. In other words, they look exactly what a concrete surface is expected to look like. Meanwhile, exposed aggregate driveways have a textured pebble appearance.
The added material gives the entrance a multi-colored aesthetic, which many homeowners consider to have a more “natural” style. Being exposed also means that the aggregate pieces sit partially above the surface of the concrete itself, hence the rougher texture of the exposed aggregate surfaces. When the weather occurs, small stones and pebbles detach and break from the underlying concrete base, causing damage that is often irreversible, according to experts at Stain and Seal Company. The surface of these aggregates will also look more “natural” than normal concrete or brick due to the exposed core elements.
It is no coincidence that aesthetics are also where exposed aggregate concrete and standard concrete are perhaps more different from each other. Mostly, you'll want to remove the hose inlet from time to time to prevent unwanted debris (such as dust, dirt, or grass) from getting stuck or accumulating in the aggregate. Both exposed aggregate and decorative concrete are cost effective, durable and require minimal maintenance practices. While a concrete slab can be cleaned quickly with a good pressure wash, the exposed aggregate generally requires more time and attention.
When you are in the process of a major renovation or a new construction project, you have the opportunity to create something truly unique and visually impressive, and exposed aggregates can be the solution. Like the exposed aggregate, there are almost no limits to the design possibilities with most of the above decorative concrete options. However, incorporating an aggregate and going through the exposure process can increase the cost. Concrete with exposed aggregates has existed for many years, but polished concrete is a recent innovation.
This variety of decorative concrete is a great alternative to other options that you may see in other landscaping projects, such as pavement slabs and block pavement. Both standard and exposed aggregate concrete driveways are very durable, but many installers recommend sealing the surface to ensure longevity. However, if you really like the look of the exposed aggregate, these few additional maintenance tasks are likely to be worth your while. In addition, the exposed aggregate does not require intensive maintenance practices, especially along walkways.
Exposed aggregates are as durable as any simple concrete surface and certainly handle heavy traffic better than natural stone. .
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