Quick Answer: How To Make Exposed Aggregate Concrete?

How is exposed aggregate concrete made?

Exposed aggregate is a type of decorative concrete that is often created by removing the top layer of cement paste to reveal (expose) the aggregate in the concrete mix. The aggregate can also be placed in fresh concrete.

Is Exposed aggregate concrete expensive?

Exposed aggregate concrete is a special mixture which is poured in much the same way, but which later has its top surface removed in order to expose the aggregate underneath. Standard concrete paving also tends to be more affordable than exposed aggregate paving, costing only about $7-9 per square foot.

How soon can you wash exposed aggregate?

Depending on when you poured it and how wet the concrete was at that time, you generally need to wait roughly 10-24 hours for the core to harden. Do not wait to long to check, because the retarder and plastic cover can only keep the top from hardening for so long.

Can you put exposed aggregate over concrete?

Can Exposed Aggregate Concrete be placed over existing concrete? A. Yes – provided certain practices are in place. It is best to discuss your particular situation with us at the time of choosing your mix.

Is Exposed aggregate cheaper than concrete?

Question: Is an exposed aggregate concrete driveway more expensive than a standard concrete driveway? Top Answer (90% of 44 votes): Yes. Explanation: Exposed aggregate is more expensive than standard aggregate because it requires more material expense and labor expense.

Does Exposed aggregate crack?

Will my new Exposed Aggregate product crack? Like all concrete products there is always some risk of cracks occurring. We cannot guarantee it won’t crack due to subsidence and other variables. Although we do everything we can to minimise the chance of cracking by cutting control joins and using expansion foam.

How long does Exposed aggregate last?

When people are considering the installation of an exposed aggregate surface, a primary benefit is its longevity. The average lifespan of an exposed aggregate driveway can be upwards of thirty years or more with the right care and preventative maintenance.

Can you pressure wash exposed aggregate?

Use a high pressure washer with hot water and a commercial-grade degreaser to eliminate oil stains. Exposed aggregate cleaners can be applied on tire marks before rinsing it off with hot water. Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove extra-stubborn stains prior to rinsing.

How do you do exposed aggregate?

Brushing and washingThis is the oldest method and the simplest because it doesn’t require chemical retarders or special tools. You just wash away the thin layer of surface mortar covering the aggregate by spraying with water and scrubbing with a broom until the aggregate is exposed to the desired depth.

Can you cover exposed aggregate?

A. Jeff Potvin, director of engineering for Increte Systems Inc., says if the cementitious matrix of the exposed–aggregate substrate is in good shape, you can overlay it. To check the condition of the matrix, pressure wash a small portion of the deck at about 3500 psi.

How do you fix bad Exposed aggregate concrete?

This uneven exposed aggregate surface needs to be treated with an acid wash. This is one of the few times I recommend an acid for a concrete repair. A strong acid wash should help even out the surface. Start with a muriatic acid diluted 1:1 with water.

How do you make Pebble concrete?

Lay decorative pebbles over the concrete with a shovel. Spread any small piles with a broom for even coverage. Lay a board over top and press the pebbles into the concrete. Wait about two hours so the surface can start to set.

What is exposed aggregate patio?

Exposed aggregate is a type of concrete where a thin top layer of concrete is removed to expose the gravel or sand that’s always part of the mixture but usually hidden. Nowadays there are many types of decorative concrete, but exposed aggregate could be called the original. It’s been in use for over a hundred years.