Exposed aggregate concrete
is a decorative style of
concrete suitable for use as a
driveway, sidewalk, or patio.
The appeal is in the finish,
which exposes the smooth
textured small stones and
pebbles that are part of the
concrete.
This is in
contrast to
a smooth concrete finish,
where the visible surface is
primarily composed of
the 'fines' within the concrete.
Exposed aggregate provides
some visual interest by
creating random patterns, and
a variety of colours. Very little
of the exposed surface is the
characteristic dull grey of the
concrete fines.
There are several techniques
to achieve and exposed
aggregate finish and each
technique will achieve a
different texture and finish.
There is truly no right way or
wrong way to achieve
exposed aggregate, It’s all a
matter of preference.
Chemical Retarders:
Works on the principle of
applying retarders to the
surfaces to be exposed. This
means applying a liquid
surface retarder to the
horizontal surfaces. This
method properly done will
give the best results. Due to
that it does not sacrifice the
aggregate, and etch can be
determined with chemical for
a uniform finish.
Acid Etching:
Today's acids are very
powerful. They can achieve
an etch of several millimeters
in green concrete or old
concrete. Acids like muratic
and hydrochloric can also be
used to help clean fine
residues off retarded and
sand blasted finishes.
Sand Blasted
Finishes:
Are very common in pre-
casting, Tilt walls, and
anytime an etched finish is
desired in cured or hardened
concrete. Sand blasting is also
an excellent way to fix bad
areas in concrete surfaces
that exposed poorly, to
improve and give a more
uniformed look.
Aggregate
Seeding:
When the concrete has just
started to set, a layer of
aggregate is cast onto the wet
concrete. The aggregate
should not sink under it's own
weight, but remain on the
surface. A brush is used to
distribute the gravel evenly,
so that the concrete
underneath is almost entirely
concealed. The aggregate is
the pressed into the surface
with a wood float.
TIP: Water-damaged concrete has a sandy or gritty surface that comes off easily when rubbed. Remove this loose material by sanding or etching. Prevent water or moisture from penetrating underneath your paint or peeling will occur.
Concrete & Mortar Additives
Concrete Sealer
