Exposed Aggregate

Posted by on Jul 27, 2011 in | 0 comments

EXPOSED AGGREGATE CONCRETE ATLANTA

What is Exposed Aggregate concrete? Where can it be used?

An Exposed Aggregate surface is obtained by placing concrete and then removing the outer ‘skin’ of cement paste to uncover decorative, coarse aggregate. The texture of this layer is either batched into the concrete mix or seeded onto the surface. Due to its durability and skid resistance, an exposed aggregate finish is ideal for most flatwork including:

  • Sidewalks
  • Driveways
  • Patios
  • Pool decks
  • Plazas

An Exposed Aggregate finish can also be applied to concrete walls or tilt-up panels for aesthetic or practical reasons. Vertical applications include:

  • Decorative retaining walls
  • Architectural building facades
  • Sound barrier walls

 

The Value of Exposed Aggregate concrete finishing

Spectacular results can be obtained at a reasonable cost with an Exposed Aggregate finish. This is because only a few additional materials other than the decorative aggregate and tools are required. Decorative stones such as quartzite, small river stones or crushed glass can be added to the surface of concrete for a decorative Exposed Aggregate finish.

Here are some notable examples of Exposed Aggregate finishes:

  • The surface is rugged, nonskid, and resistant to heavy traffic and weather extremes.
  • Many types and sizes of decorative aggregate are available to achieve unlimited color and texture variations.
  • Exposed aggregate is highly versatile and contrasts beautifully with plain concrete or other decorative treatments such as stamping, stenciling, staining, and integral coloring.
  • Maintenance is minimal, other than sealing and occasional cleaning.

 

Combining decorative elements with Exposed Aggregate finishes:

Decorative elements in flatwork can be used on their own: a pavement can be entirely colored concrete, stamped, or exposed aggregate, for instance.

The most striking results are produced, however, when the decorative elements are combined. The designer needs to pay attention to how the decorative elements relate to each other in both color and proportion. Naturally, combined elements cost more: pouring a band with one color and then exposing the fields means making two concrete pours as opposed to one.

The choices are literally endless. Rose & Son Inc. is here to guide through the limitless options available to you. We are confident of making your design dreams come true.

 

For more information, contact us for a free quote 770-426-7495