Exposed Aggregate

Special Effects with the Rock in the Concrete

Exposed aggregate finishes are perfect for patios, driveways, walkways, in bands or fields, and many other flatwork applications.

The rock (aggregate) in the concrete mix is exposed by either water pressure, chemical application, or by sandblasting.

New England Hardscapes
New England Hardscapes Inc in Tyngsboro, MA
New England Hardscapes
New England Hardscapes Inc in Tyngsboro, MA

The aggregate can be purchased from a material yard for "seeding" in the fresh concrete mix. Or the ready mix supplier may have colorful aggregates suitable for seeding or poured integral in the mix and then exposed by sandblasting.

Ask the ready mix supplier to view the aggregate they have suitable for exposing.

There are a variety of "looks" achieved by exposing the aggregate:

Available aggregates vary widely from region to region, so the look can be different merely by the region of the project.

The amount of aggregate exposure can vary from light to heavy.

Sandblasting aggregates can produce a heavy or fine aggregate exposure. In addition, some fields that are side by side, or in a pattern, can be sandblasted to different exposure levels for an interesting effect.

Timing is critical in exposing aggregate both in how soon the concrete can be "seeded," and in the timing of exposing the aggregates if the water or chemical method is being used.

Cleaning exposed aggregate concrete soon (after 2 weeks) is important to remove any cement paste residue and brighten the exposed aggregates. See cleaning exposed aggregate concrete surfaces.

Sealing exposed aggregate concrete with a clear coating, consisting of acrylic resins, brings out the natural color of the aggregates. See sealing exposed aggregate concrete surfaces.

Properly placed exposed aggregate concrete, in either bands or fields, contrasts beautifully with colored, scored, sawcut, stamped, or textured finishes.

Visit our Exposed Aggregate information page.

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