Exposed aggregate polished concrete (just like a normal polished concrete floor) is very similar to sanding wood. We use large machines to mechanically grind and reveal the aggregate in a concrete floor. Once the level of aggregate desired is achieved, the floor can then be turned into honed, and eventually polished concrete.
Full Answer
What does exposed aggregate mean?
Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative finish where the top layer of concrete is removed to reveal the small aggregates beneath the surface. This means if you have an existing concrete surface that is structurally sound, we can resurface it to look like exposed concrete. Is Exposed aggregate concrete smooth?
How to expose aggregate for polished concrete floors?
There are lots of options when it comes to exposing aggregate for polished concrete floors. We can grind the floor wet. We can use extremely aggressive diamonds during the initial grind. We can even use chemicals to help soften the concrete before we even put a grinder on it.
Can You stain exposed aggregate concrete?
As a result, you could have all black aggregate, all-white aggregate or any other type of cement medium. Colors and designs: Exposed aggregate concrete can still be stained just like a regular polished concrete floor.
What is the best way to expose decorative aggregate?
Once the concrete has been placed, the decorative aggregate is ready to be revealed. There are several exposure methods contractors can choose from, depending on the look desired and size of the project. Only the top of the stone is exposed while the rest remains permanently embedded in the concrete.
What is the composition of exposed aggregate?
What does pebble look like in a pool?
Is aggregate better than other surfaces?
How do you polish exposed aggregate?
1:293:53Polished Concrete Profiles: How to Achieve Different Levels of SheenYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe class a cream finish sometimes does not remove surface imperfections from concrete placing andMoreThe class a cream finish sometimes does not remove surface imperfections from concrete placing and finishing process like you see here topical burnishing definitely will not remove the blemishes.
Can you polish existing exposed aggregate?
Almost any structurally sound concrete floor, whether new or old, can be polished. However there are some exceptions, for example with new floors no special mix design is required to achieve good results – although the floor should be in place at least 28 days before polishing begins to ensure adequate curing.
How can I make my aggregate concrete look better?
0:079:54Exposed Aggregate Restoration, stamped concrete sealer - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd then we're going to use Trin --ax stamped shield Tremec stamped shield is a low build sealer. SoMoreAnd then we're going to use Trin --ax stamped shield Tremec stamped shield is a low build sealer. So we won't have problems with voiding out it's going to color enhance.
Can exposed aggregate be honed?
If you already have exposed aggregate, you can have it honed, which is the beauty of this type of surface. Honing the existing aggregate lets you save money since there is no need to remove the concrete that you have installed. It is quicker and much easier to update the look of your patio with this method.
Can you do polished concrete over an existing slab?
You'd be happy to know that any concrete surface can be ground back and polished up. This may be a less risky option to pouring a new slab over an existing one. The look of the finished floors will still depend on the condition of the slab, but it's possible to achieve a natural concrete look.
Can existing concrete be polished?
Almost any structurally sound concrete floor, whether new or old, can be polished.
Can you change the Colour of exposed aggregate?
Exposed aggregate can be stained or dyed to shift or change the color upon completion. Exposed aggregate is done by using a chemical retarder on the surface of the concrete during its placement.
Can aggregate concrete be smoothed?
Concrete Floors with Raised Aggregate Can be Smoothed Back Down.
Can you pressure wash exposed aggregate concrete?
Further clean the exposed aggregate with water using a garden hose or, if available, a high-pressure cleaner. Be very careful when choosing to use a high-pressure cleaner on exposed aggregate as if your pressure is too high, you can cause damage to the cement and the loosen the stones from your driveway.
How much does it cost to hone exposed aggregate?
How much does honed aggregate cost? Honed aggregate can cost anywhere from $100 to $180 per square metre. In some cases, the amount is much lower, starting at $70 or $80. The final price will depend on many factors; including the type of materials you want to use and the size of the floor space.
Is Pebblecrete the same as exposed aggregate?
Pebblecrete is concrete that incorporates small pebbles to change its appearance and texture. It's also known as exposed aggregate.
How long does Exposed aggregate last?
But how long will exposed aggregate last? With the right care, you're looking at over 10 to 20 years of life. One of the most attractive benefits of using exposed aggregate is its longevity. At Concept Concrete, we offer up to a 78-month warranty on your exposed concrete driveways, patios, and more.
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What is the composition of exposed aggregate?
Exposed aggregates. The composition of this mixture is similar to the polished aggregate, however, it typically contains small river pebbles or glass beads. Additionally, once it has been applied to the pool and is still wet, the finish gets power washed with a mixture of muriatic acid and water.
What does pebble look like in a pool?
And the various colors allow for a range of combinations to make each surface unique from the next. Pebble mixtures tend to have a more natural and rustic look that complement the surrounding area, giving your pool a lagoon-like design. Some can even resemble the sand from beaches, making your pool feel tropical.
Is aggregate better than other surfaces?
Aggregates are also much more durable than other surfaces, leading to their growth in usage by many pool owners. However, simply choosing an aggregate isn't a viable move, as it comes in polished and exposed options that offer both similar and different benefits to swimming pools.
What is exposed aggregate concrete?
Exposed aggregate concrete can almost be compared to a piece of granite or marble transform ed by polishing: A plain, unremarkable surface has been stripped away to reveal the exceptional beauty lying beneath. In the case of concrete, that beauty is in the form of decorative aggregate, either natural or manufactured.
How to seed decorative aggregate?
This involves sprinkling the aggregate by hand or shovel uniformly onto the surface and then embedding it with a bull float or darby until it's completely covered by a thin layer of cement paste.
How thick is a topping?
The topping can range in thickness from 1 to 2 inches, depending on the aggregate size. This method generally works best when smaller decorative aggregates are specified.
How to use chemical stains?
Use chemical stains to highlight elements in a pattern or fields of exposed aggregate. Vary the degree of aggregate exposure, from light to heavy. For example, fields that are side by side or in a pattern can be sandblasted to different exposure levels for a unique effect.
Can you put decorative aggregate in concrete?
You can also have the ready-mix producer put the decorative aggregate right into the concrete mix during batching, which eliminates the step of seeding it onto the surface after concrete placement. However, depending on the cost of the aggregate you choose, this method can be more expensive than seeding because it requires using greater quantities of decorative aggregate.
How do you fix bad Exposed aggregate concrete?
This uneven exposed aggregate surface needs to be treated with an acid wash. This is one of the few times I recommend an acid for a concrete repair. A strong acid wash should help even out the surface. Start with a muriatic acid diluted 1:1 with water.
Can you resurface exposed aggregate concrete?
Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative finish where the top layer of concrete is removed to reveal the small aggregates beneath the surface. This means if you have an existing concrete surface that is structurally sound, we can resurface it to look like exposed concrete.
Is Exposed aggregate concrete smooth?
Exposed aggregate concrete has been popular for decades! The exposed rocks provide a timeless, natural looking pattern and its texture makes sidewalks and driveways a bit slip resistant. The result is a sturdy and beautiful surface that reveals the smooth pebbles in the concrete.
How do you smooth out rough concrete?
A. There are two things you can do fix the rough finish. One is, you could grind or polish the surface which would remove the rough broom finish and smooth the surface of the concrete. Some of the aggregate would be exposed giving you a nice smooth decorative look to your sidewalk and patio.
How do I restore exposed aggregate?
The best way to clean oil and grease stains from your exposed aggregate driveway is to apply a driveway cleaning solution that will break down the oil. Luckily, you can make this mixture using household products like dishwashing liquid or baking soda.
Does Exposed aggregate crack?
Will my new Exposed Aggregate product crack? Like all concrete products there is always some risk of cracks occurring. We cannot guarantee it won’t crack due to subsidence and other variables. Although we do everything we can to minimise the chance of cracking by cutting control joins and using expansion foam.
Is Exposed aggregate concrete more expensive?
Explanation: Exposed aggregate is more expensive than standard aggregate because it requires more material expense and labor expense.
How long does a concrete sealer last?
They seal the aggregate without leaving behind a visible surface film. On average they last from seven to 10 years and require little to no maintenance.
What is the best sealer for loose stones?
If you need to secure loose stones, an acrylic sealer is a better choice. The second and most common choice is a topical acrylic concrete sealer which preserves the concrete and enhances it with a high-gloss finish often referred to as the “wet look.”. Eight out of 10 of our customers choose a honey brown-tinted high-gloss sealer ...
What type of sealer is best for concrete?
There are two types of sealer: solvent and water-based products. And like the article suggests, a penetrating sealer is best for exposed aggregate concrete surfaces. Non-penetrating/topical sealers will coat the surface along with the aggregate, creating a slippery surface.
What is the benefit of using acrylic sealer?
The brown tint allows for a uniform look that darkens the exposed surface. Another benefit of using an acrylic sealer is that it’s topical. Instead of penetrating a 1/2 inch into the concrete, the sealer sits on top on the surface. It helps hold the aggregate pebbles in place, reduces pitting and extends the life of exposed aggregate concrete.
Can you use a cure and sealer on concrete?
A ‘cure and seal’ is acceptable, however. With regard to applying sealer in cold climates it is best to refer to the sealer manufacturers product guidelines in order to protect yourself and your concrete from any breach of a product warranty. Regarding the use of a penetrating sealer first and a topical sealer second.
Can you seal exposed aggregate driveway?
Written by Tyler Stephens on June 13, 2019. Sealing exposed aggregate driveways can extend the life of the concrete as well as improve its looks. Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative concrete look that will enhance the curb appeal of driveways, pool decks, sidewalks and patios. It’s achieved when the top layer of concrete has been removed ...
What is the disadvantage of abrasive blasting?
The disadvantage of abrasive blasting is that it can fracture the aggregate and dull its appearance.
Is the top of a stone exposed?
There are several exposure methods contractors can choose from, depending on the look desired and size of the project. Only the top of the stone is exposed while the rest remains permanently embedded in the concrete.
What is the composition of exposed aggregate?
Exposed aggregates. The composition of this mixture is similar to the polished aggregate, however, it typically contains small river pebbles or glass beads. Additionally, once it has been applied to the pool and is still wet, the finish gets power washed with a mixture of muriatic acid and water.
What does pebble look like in a pool?
And the various colors allow for a range of combinations to make each surface unique from the next. Pebble mixtures tend to have a more natural and rustic look that complement the surrounding area, giving your pool a lagoon-like design. Some can even resemble the sand from beaches, making your pool feel tropical.
Is aggregate better than other surfaces?
Aggregates are also much more durable than other surfaces, leading to their growth in usage by many pool owners. However, simply choosing an aggregate isn't a viable move, as it comes in polished and exposed options that offer both similar and different benefits to swimming pools.
