Exposed aggregate concrete is not only eye-catching but also extremely practical for homeowners as it eliminates the growth and formation of weeds and moss. It’s also a very versatile material, with a large range of texture and colours to choose from.
With a choice of natural rock or pebbles and a variety of colour options, no two driveways will ever look the same.
Durability
Concrete is known for its durability, and exposed aggregate concrete is no exception. This type of concrete can withstand the wear and tear of heavy foot and vehicular traffic year-round without damage, as long as it is sealed properly.
In addition to its durability, this concrete also has a natural skid-resistant surface that makes it ideal for driveways and other areas where people walk and drive. Slipping and falling on a wet, rainy, or snowy surface can not only be embarrassing, but it can be dangerous as well. This is why many homeowners choose exposed aggregate for their patios, walkways, and other outdoor surfaces, as it provides a non-slip surface that prevents accidents.
Exposed aggregate concrete is highly customizable and versatile, as it can be combined with other decorative treatments like stamping, stencilling, staining, and integrated colouration. It is also more visually interesting than plain concrete, as the stones’ varied sizes and shapes create unique patterns that can complement your home or business.
Another advantage of this type of concrete is that it is resistant to damage from deicing salts, which can be tough on asphalt and other materials in cold climates. This makes it an excellent choice for driveways, where ice can cause serious damage in the form of cracks and potholes. When used with a sealer, exposed aggregate is protected against this damage, and it can easily be repaired when necessary.
Versatility
Concrete is a very versatile material that can be used in a variety of ways. This includes outdoor surfaces like driveways, patios, and walkways. Exposed aggregate concrete is a popular choice for patios because it provides a non-slip surface that is safe to walk on. It also looks great and can add to the aesthetic of a backyard patio.
Exposed aggregate concrete can also be used for other outdoor surfaces. It can be a good option for driveways, because it is resistant to damage from deicing salts that are often used in colder climates. This type of concrete is also durable and can withstand the weight of cars.
One of the reasons that exposed aggregate is so versatile is because it can be poured in a variety of ways. There is the standard method, which involves mixing the aggregate into a batch of concrete at the plant before delivering it and installing it on site. However, contractors can also install this type of concrete over existing concrete, by applying a concrete overlay.
Regardless of the way that it is installed, exposed aggregate concrete offers a unique look that can complement any home design style. It is also practical because it does not require much maintenance, other than regularly cleaning it to prevent weeds and moss from growing on the surface.
Low Maintenance
One of the perks that Melbourne Concreters offers is a low maintenance solution. It doesn’t have the same weed-growing and color-flaking issues that other concrete types can have. When properly cared for, it can look as beautiful in decades as it does on the day it’s installed.
Exposed aggregate concrete can be laid in two ways: as a standard mix or as an overlay. In the standard method, aggregate is mixed into the concrete in a plant prior to delivery and laying on the project site. This method allows for a wider selection of aggregate materials to be used. Pea stone is a common aggregate for this type of concrete. The overlay method is more commonly used for upgrading existing concrete slabs, which can be a cost-effective way to add exposed aggregate.
Aggregate can also be added to unpigmented or pigmented concrete mixtures, which can allow for an array of colors and textures for the finished product. This can be a great option for patios, driveways, or pool decks that require a durable yet unique surface.
Another benefit of choosing exposed aggregate concrete is that it’s resistant to damage from deicing salts, which can be tough on asphalt and other driveway surfaces. This makes it a good choice for cold climates. Exposed aggregate concrete can be washed down regularly with a garden hose or power washer to keep it looking its best.
Aesthetics
In addition to its practical qualities, exposed aggregate concrete is a great choice for homeowners looking for a unique look. While interlocking pavers and plain poured concrete provide some attractive options for patios, walkways, driveways, and front entryways, exposed aggregate concrete gives your outdoor living spaces an artistic, eye-catching twist that stands out from the crowd.
When you opt for an exposed aggregate finish, you can choose from a variety of decorative aggregates (deco-aggs) and colors to create the perfect look for your concrete project. The deco-aggs can be natural, such as basalts and granites or manufactured, such as recycled glass and sea shells. You can also choose to have the deco-aggs pressed into the body of the concrete or washed to expose them.
The look of an exposed aggregate concrete surface can be bold or subtle based on the color scheme you select and the type of stone used to create the aggregate mix. You can also add integral color to the concrete during its pouring process or acid stain it once cured to get a variegated look. Exposed aggregate concrete can be carved or stamped with patterns to make it more interesting, and you can even choose to leave some areas of the slab smooth. You can also add cut patterns that mimic tile or larger slabs of stone to give the finished concrete a distinct design.
