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Exposed Aggregate From Ready Mixed Concrete
by TRP Ready Mix on February 27, 2017
Looking at Exposed Aggregate and How it Can Improve Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Exposed aggregate has been a popular decorative concrete choice for years because of its visual and durable appeal. Exposed aggregate is a decorative type of ready mixed concrete that combines a poured concrete with crushed stones or any other natural or manufactured decorative material.
The trick is removing the top layer of settled concrete. This exposes the aggregate, which is generally stone or some other decorative material. The concrete is then sealed for a durable finish. A ready mixed concrete installation with exposed aggregate can help boost your home’s curb appeal because of its durable and attractive qualities.
Exposed Aggregate Uses
Exposed aggregate ready mixed concrete can is be used for a variety of home projects both indoors and out, including:
- Driveways
- Walkways
- Steps
- Patios
- Pool decks
- Garden borders
- Interior flooring
- Counter tops
The durable and skid-resistant qualities of exposed aggregate will make your concrete projects last for years while requiring minimal maintenance.
Types of Exposed Aggregate
Since most people use ready mixed concrete with exposed aggregate for its decorative appeal, there are a variety of options to choose from to meet your home décor needs. Exposed aggregates can be mixed with:
- Coloured concrete
- Stained concrete
- Stamped concrete
- Crushed stones
- Marble
- Granite
- Manufactured decorative materials
How to Expose the Aggregate
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to exposing aggregates and decorative materials. It all boils down to what look and feel you’re going for with ready mixed concrete. These techniques include:
- Abrasive blasting (such as sand blasting)
- Brushing
- Washing
- Surface set-retarders (to slow the setting of the concrete surface)
Benefits of Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate ready mixed concrete has been popular in concrete projects for many years because it is:
- Attractive
- Durable
- Custom made
- Low maintenance
- Affordable
- Versatile
- A curb-appeal/home value booster
For your next ready mixed concrete project, consider using exposed aggregate for a stylish and durable finish. Polished and sealed aggregate improves the look of your home both inside and out. Try customizing it to match your home’s existing style.
Skilled concrete contractors can help you decide which aggregates to use and what style will look best with your home. The best part is, you can complete a beautiful concrete project without going over budget. With exposed aggregate ready mixed concrete, there are plenty of options to suit you and your home’s needs.