What is Exposed Aggregate?
Exposed aggregate is a decorative finish where the top layer of concrete paste is washed away to reveal the natural beauty of the stones (aggregate) underneath. This creates a pebbled, textured surface that is both visually striking and incredibly durable.
At Gaetano Cement Contractors, we use specialized surface retarders and power washing techniques to achieve a consistent, even reveal. The result is a surface that offers the strength of concrete with the aesthetic appeal of natural gravel or stone.
Why Choose Exposed Aggregate?
This finish is rapidly growing in popularity across Northeast Ohio for three key reasons:
- 1. Safety & Traction: The textured surface provides excellent grip, making it the #1 choice for pool decks and sloped driveways that get slippery in winter.
- 2. Durability: Because the surface is primarily stone rather than cement paste, it resists wear, scratches, and tire marks better than standard concrete.
- 3. Low Maintenance: The varied colors of the aggregate hide oil stains and dirt much better than a plain white slab.
Our Installation Process
Creating a perfect exposed aggregate finish requires precise timing. Here is how we do it:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. The Pour | We pour a specialized concrete mix rich in attractive river stone or crushed aggregate. |
| 2. Surface Retarder | We spray a chemical retarder on the wet surface to prevent the top 1/8th inch of paste from curing. |
| 3. The Wash | Once the slab hardens, we power wash the top layer to reveal the stones hidden beneath. |
| 4. Sealing | We apply a high-gloss "brown out" sealer that makes the stone colors pop and protects the finish. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is exposed aggregate hard to walk on barefoot?
It depends on the aggregate size. For pool decks and patios, we typically use a smaller, rounded river stone (pea gravel) which is comfortable on bare feet. For driveways, we may use a slightly more rugged stone for maximum traction.
Will the stones pop out over time?
No. The stones are not glued on top; they are integral to the concrete mix itself. They are embedded deep within the slab, making "pop-outs" extremely rare when installed correctly.
How do I clean an exposed aggregate driveway?
It is actually easier to clean than smooth concrete. A simple garden hose or light pressure wash will remove dirt from between the stones. We recommend resealing every 2-3 years to keep the colors vibrant.