Exposed Aggregate Concrete is a highly durable and low-maintenance option for patios, driveways, and walkways.
Exposed Aggregate is a decorative concrete that has natural stones from river beds and quarries hand seeded into a concrete base. A touch of class combined with durability makes exposed aggregate an ideal choice for patios, driveways, walkways, commercial entryways and more.
A variety of stones and dyes can be utilized to obtain the nearly 50 colors of exposed aggregate concrete that Nice Guy has to offer. Exposed Aggregate concrete provides an intricate visual effect and finish.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete is a popular and commonly utilized material in the Toronto area and across Canada. Exposed Aggregate, more than any other decorative concrete finish, can withstand our harsh winters with the least amount of damage. This is because the top layer of the finish is wiped away, removing the weaker cream seen in other finishes and reducing the risk of spalling. Exposed Aggregate mixes are unique mix designs that include more rock than conventional mixes, resulting in a larger surface area of rock content, which is desirable in this decorative concrete finish.
Aggregate mixtures may also be colored to match stucco or siding, with bespoke color matching possible. Because supply and sources change over time, aggregate colors and sizes will fluctuate. Typically, aggregate mixtures vary in size from 10mm to 14mm.
The slab is prepared in the same way as stamped concrete. When exposed aggregate concrete is done, we spray a retarder on the surface, preventing the top 3/16" of the slab from setting. We'll come back later to expose the surface, either by power washing or sandblasting it. Power washing is the most frequent method for slabs on gradients to Exposed Aggregate Concrete. This procedure is untidy, therefore we recommend transplanting any favorite flowers near the work area throughout the Concrete Construction process. Concrete stairwells and stairs are often cleaned as well, but for the greatest effects, they are usually sandblasted.
The next phase in your new exposed aggregate concrete project is concrete sealing. The most popular sealer for exposed aggregate is acrylic high gloss sealer with a solids count of 25 to 30 percent; the greater the solids count, the thicker the concrete sealer, which directly correlates to the sealer's longevity. Sealers may be made less slippery by adding non-slip chemicals. We always apply concrete sealer using a roller to ensure that the sealer is evenly distributed throughout the aggregate concrete surface.
Concrete sealing is often disregarded over time, which may have a significant impact on the quality of your concrete construction. Sealer protects against certain stains and slows moisture transfer into the slab, which may be damaging during the winter months. When we install any ornamental concrete services, the sealer is always included at no extra cost. To extend the life of your beautiful concrete, we offer concrete sealer maintenance programs. To get on a sealer schedule and extend the life of your investment while improving the aesthetic, please contact us.
To learn more about our Exposed Aggregate services or to request a quote, please contact us at 289 803 2615 or fill out our online contact form.