Why Choose Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
When it comes to your home, the surface of your driveway and other outdoor areas has a big impact on both look and function. Choosing the right surface will highlight architectural features, harmonize with your garden and boost your property value.
Exposed aggregate concrete is a durable option for your driveway or patio, offering slip-resistance and decorative appeal. It is also suitable for pool decks, walkways and paths.
Durability
When choosing the best surface for your driveway, patio, or al fresco, you want something that is both durable and appealing. Exposed aggregate concrete offers both. This type of concrete is made with pebbles, crushed stone, or recycled glass embedded in a layer of concrete. It can be coloured and sealed to create a one-of-a-kind look that complements your home style.
Exposed aggregate is particularly well suited for high-traffic areas, like driveways and walkways. Its rough texture also provides good traction, especially in wet or icy conditions.
Exposed aggregate concrete is easy to maintain, and should last a long time as long as it’s properly maintained. Regular sweeping and hosing down with water will keep it free from dirt, and a quality concrete sealer will reduce water absorption and protect it against staining.
Safety
Exposed aggregate offers a textured surface that provides slip resistance, making it an excellent option for areas that may be prone to moisture or foot traffic. This includes pool surrounds, pathways, and driveways. It also works well for commercial projects, such as plazas and public spaces.
This type of concrete is also relatively easy to maintain. It is not prone to cracking, and regular sweeping and hosing down can keep it looking great. Unlike paved surfaces, it is not susceptible to weed growth or ant infestations.
Exposed aggregate is available in a wide variety of aggregate sizes and colours, making it highly customizable. Skilled installers know precisely when to wash away the surface cement without dislodging the aggregates. They also use the right curing methods to promote strength and durability. The final step is a high-quality concrete sealer to protect the exposed aggregate against staining and water absorption. This sealer also enhances the colour of the aggregate and highlights its finish.
Aesthetics
Compared to standard concrete, exposed aggregate concrete offers greater aesthetic versatility. A wide range of colours, textures, and patterns can be crafted to suit your property’s architecture and landscaping. This makes it the perfect choice for concrete driveways, patios, and garden paths. Its textured surface also provides slip resistance, making it safe for pedestrians and vehicles alike.
There are several ways to achieve your ideal look for exposed aggregate, including using chemical stains, different levels of exposure, and decorative patterns. You can even include divider strips, borders, and inlays to create a unique design.
Exposure aggregate has a timeless appeal that complements both modern and traditional landscapes. Its textured surface feels distinctive underfoot and can provide slip resistance, while its versatile colours and materials blend in seamlessly with your surrounding greenery. It is also easy to maintain and can help boost your property’s value. In addition, its durability and hardwearing properties make it a cost-effective option for high traffic areas.
Maintenance
Exposed aggregate concrete uses standard concrete as its base and then mixes in custom aggregate materials to add texture and colour. This creates a unique look that can transform a simple driveway or garden area into something more visually appealing.
Like all concrete, exposed aggregate must be maintained properly to keep it looking good. A regular clean with a soft brush or leaf blower will work well for removing any dirt that has collected on the surface. The concrete can be pre-wet with a hose to make the dirt easier to wash away and also to avoid damaging the surface.
The concreter will then apply a surface sealer. This is very important to ensure that the concrete is protected from moisture and other chemicals. A good sealer will also bring out the colours of the aggregates and cement and help with slip resistance. It is recommended that you get the concrete sealed after 6 months of exposure.
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