When designing your driveway, patio, or walkway, there are many options available to you. Exposed aggregate is one option that you may want to consider. This is a decorative concrete that possesses natural stones; which is exposed when the top layer of cement is removed. When this occurs, the results are not only stunning, but you now have an excellent, skid-resistant, durable surface for your driveway, patio, walkway or pool deck.
The Advantages of Exposed Aggregate
First and foremost, there are many options available to you in order to customize the look of your exposed aggregate. You can select your color choice, small or large stone, and will have the option between different textures. Having some options in the design will allow you to coordinate the over-all look of your landscaping and home.
Another benefit is the use of aggregate concrete. It is a solid, durable surface that wears very well. Being that the surface is exposed, it provides a rugged surface which is exceptional for providing traction and making the surface less slippery when wet. Exposed aggregate concrete is built to last. It can withstand the weather changes that Michigan has to offer. Whether there is ice or snow, rain, or a lot of sunshine, it will hold up against a variety of elements.
Installation
You should know that the construction process of laying aggregate concrete can take a bit longer than standard concrete. After the aggregate concrete is poured and smoothed, the installers will need to spray it down with special chemicals. These chemicals are what keep the small rocks and pebbles from solidifying. When this is complete, plastic sheeting will be placed over the surface for about 24 hours to prevent the concrete from hardening. Once the sheet is removed, the installers will pressure wash the surface to remove the top, soft layer of concrete to expose the small rocks and pebbles. After all of this is complete, your decorative aggregate concrete will be revealed!
Maintenance of Aggregate Concrete
With the surface of aggregate concrete being uneven, we recommend hosing down the surface regularly to ensure the appearance is retained. Different elements such as leaves, dirt, grass, and sand can get caught in the surface, so rinsing it down is advised. However, be sure not to use too high of pressure or else you may loosen some of the stones or pebbles.
If you are interested in learning more about aggregate concrete for your upcoming project, please give Flat Rock Construction a call! We have years of experience with aggregate concrete and would love to give you a quote! We can be reached at 248-379-0250.