Exposed Aggregate Concrete

Reveal the natural beauty within. Our exposed aggregate finish showcases decorative stones for a stunning, durable, and slip-resistant surface.

Why Choose Exposed Aggregate?


  • Natural stone beauty revealed
  • Nearly 50 color options available
  • Superior slip resistance
  • Extremely durable surface
  • Hides minor wear and stains
  • 25-30+ year lifespan

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What is Exposed Aggregate Concrete?

Exposed aggregate reveals the natural beauty of decorative stones embedded within the concrete, creating a stunning textured surface that's both functional and beautiful.

Exposed aggregate concrete is created by pouring concrete with carefully selected decorative stones, then removing the top layer of cement paste to reveal the aggregate within. The result is a beautiful, textured surface that showcases natural river stones, granite, quartz, and other decorative materials.

Unlike stamped concrete which mimics other materials, exposed aggregate celebrates the authentic beauty of natural stone. Each installation is unique based on the specific aggregate selection no two surfaces are exactly alike.

The textured surface provides excellent slip resistance, making exposed aggregate ideal for driveways, patios, pool decks, and walkways. The stones themselves are incredibly durable, and the varied surface actually hides minor wear, stains, and tire marks better than smooth finishes.

With nearly 50 aggregate color options available, we can create a custom look that perfectly complements your home's architecture and landscape design.


Popular Aggregate Choices

Choose from a wide variety of natural stones to create your perfect surface. Here are some of our most popular selections.

🪨 Niagara Blend

Our most popular choice featuring warm earth tones browns, tans, and cream colors that complement most home exteriors beautifully.

🖤 Black Granite

Sophisticated dark aggregate creating a dramatic, modern look. Pairs beautifully with contemporary architecture and lighter colored homes.

⚪ White Marble

Bright, elegant white stones for a clean, sophisticated appearance. Popular for pool decks where it stays cooler in direct sunlight.

🔴 Red Granite

Rich red and rose tones that make a bold statement. Perfect for properties where you want the driveway to be a focal point.

🌊 River Stone

Smooth, rounded stones in mixed colors for a natural, organic appearance. Creates a softer aesthetic than angular aggregates.

✨ Custom Blends

Can't find the perfect match? We can create custom aggregate blends to achieve your exact vision. Ask about our color-matching service.

Ready to Reveal the Beauty Within?

Get a free consultation and see our full range of aggregate samples. We'll help you select the perfect stones for your property.

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Why Choose Exposed Aggregate?

🪨

Natural Stone Beauty

Genuine decorative stones not imitation. Each surface is unique with authentic texture and depth that only real stone can provide.

👟

Superior Traction

The textured surface provides excellent slip resistance, even when wet. Ideal for pool decks, driveways, and any area where safety matters.

🛡️

Extreme Durability

The exposed stones are incredibly hard and resistant to wear. This surface handles heavy traffic, Ontario winters, and decades of use.

🧹

Hides Imperfections

The varied texture and color naturally camouflages tire marks, stains, and minor wear. Your surface looks better longer.

🎨

50 Color Options

From warm earth tones to dramatic blacks and everything in between. Match your home's style with the perfect aggregate selection.

🏠

Increases Value

Premium exposed aggregate adds significant curb appeal and is a selling feature that potential buyers appreciate.


Exposed Aggregate Installation

Creating beautiful exposed aggregate requires precision timing and expert technique. Here's our proven process.

1

Consultation & Aggregate Selection

We visit your property, assess conditions, and help you select the perfect aggregate. We bring samples so you can see exactly how your finished surface will look.

2

Site Preparation & Base Installation

We remove existing surfaces, excavate to proper depth, install 6" compacted granular base, and set forms with steel reinforcement for maximum durability.

3

Concrete Pouring

Fresh 32 MPa air-entrained concrete with your selected aggregate is poured and carefully leveled. The higher aggregate content creates the signature exposed look.

4

Surface Retarder Application

A chemical retarder is sprayed on the surface to slow the curing of the top layer while the base concrete sets. This is the critical step that allows aggregate exposure.

5

Aggregate Exposure

Once timing is right, we wash away the uncured top layer with pressure washing or sandblasting to reveal the beautiful aggregate beneath. This requires expert timing and technique.

6

Sealing & Protection

After proper curing, we apply premium acrylic sealer that enhances the stone colors, adds gloss, and protects against staining and moisture penetration.


Pros & Cons of Exposed Aggregate

✓ Advantages

  • Authentic natural stone beauty not imitation
  • Exceptional durability lasting 25-30+ years
  • Superior slip resistance when wet
  • Hides tire marks, stains, and minor wear
  • Nearly 50 aggregate color options
  • Each surface is unique and custom
  • Adds significant property value

✕ Considerations

  • Higher cost than plain concrete ($17+/sq ft)
  • Surface can be rough on bare feet
  • Requires professional installation
  • Needs resealing every 2-3 years
  • Repairs may show slightly
  • Weather-dependent installation timing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is exposed aggregate concrete?

Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative finish where the top layer of cement paste is removed to reveal the natural stone, gravel, and aggregate within the concrete mix. This creates a beautiful, textured surface with excellent slip resistance and unique character. Each installation is truly one-of-a-kind based on the aggregate selection.

How much does exposed aggregate concrete cost?

Exposed aggregate concrete typically costs $17+ per square foot, depending on the aggregate type, project size, and site conditions. Premium aggregates and custom color combinations may increase the price. Our minimum project charge is $8,500 for exposed aggregate installations.

Is exposed aggregate concrete slippery?

No, exposed aggregate is actually one of the most slip-resistant concrete finishes available. The textured surface created by the exposed stones provides excellent traction, even when wet. This makes it ideal for pool decks, driveways, and walkways where safety is important.

How do you maintain exposed aggregate concrete?

Exposed aggregate requires minimal maintenance: sweep regularly to remove debris, clean with mild soap and water as needed, avoid harsh de-icing chemicals (use sand instead), and reseal every 2-3 years to protect the surface and enhance the stone colors. We include the initial sealer application with every installation.

Exposed aggregate vs stamped concrete which is better?

Both are excellent decorative options with different appeals. Exposed aggregate ($17+/sq ft) offers natural stone beauty, superior slip resistance, and better wear hiding. Stamped concrete ($26+/sq ft) offers more design patterns like brick, slate, and wood looks. Exposed aggregate is more slip-resistant; stamped concrete offers more pattern variety. We're happy to discuss which best suits your needs.

Exposed Aggregate Installation Across the GTA

We install stunning exposed aggregate driveways, patios, and pool decks throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Our expert team serves:

Also serving: Waterdown, Etobicoke, Toronto West, Halton Hills, Acton, and surrounding areas

Explore Other Concrete Finishes

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Get Your Free Exposed Aggregate Estimate

Discover the natural beauty of exposed aggregate. We'll bring samples to your property and help you visualize the perfect surface.

Request Your Free Estimate