Yes, you can resurface exposed aggregate. Yes, you can also do it by yourself. You just need to take into consideration the time, money, and effort that you will be willing to spend to see this project through from start to finish.
Can you use exposed aggregate to resurface concrete?
Concrete that is exposed aggregate is a decorative finish where the top layer of concrete is removed to reveal colorful aggregate beneath it. So if you have an existing concrete structure that is structurally sound, you can use exposed aggregate concrete to resurface it to look just like exposed concrete.
Why should I resurface my aggregate driveway?
Over time, pieces of aggregate can dislodge if the concrete becomes brittle or water damaged, leaving unsightly ruts behind. Resurfacing an aggregate driveway is simple and prevents the damage from spreading. Decorative aggregate exposed in concrete offers an attractive surface.
What is decorative aggregate exposed in concrete?
Decorative aggregate exposed in concrete offers an attractive surface. The term aggregate refers to the crushed rocks added to cement to increase the strength and durability of concrete. On an exposed aggregate driveway, colorful stones are laid on top of wet concrete to add a decorative, unique touch.
Can You Prep a fully cured concrete surface for overlay?
There is no reasonable means to prep a fully cured concrete surface for an overlay under the minimum thickness. Under 2" the aggregate itself becomes the limiting factor. There is nothing to "bite" to with concrete.
How do I restore exposed aggregate?
6 steps for clean exposed aggregate concreteStep #1: Protect yourself. Of course, before starting any DIY job, it's important to protect yourself with the right equipment. ... Step #2: Remove debris. ... Step #3: Water it down. ... Step #4: Apply cleaner. ... Step #5: Brushing up. ... Step #6: Rinsing off.
Can you reseal exposed aggregate?
Exposed aggregate concrete can look good in the beginning, and it can be maintained that way indefinitely - as long as sealing, and resealing is done properly, and with a high quality clear concrete sealer.
Can you change the Colour of exposed aggregate?
Exposed aggregate finishes can be stained as well. However, keep in mind that you're staining the cement— not the aggregates— so the color will only tint the matrix. The original aggregate color will remain fairly intact.
How do I redo my aggregate driveway?
0:454:28How to Resurface Concrete - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLarge areas like driveways patios. And pool decks. But because it sets quickly it is important toMoreLarge areas like driveways patios. And pool decks. But because it sets quickly it is important to section off your work areas to no larger than 144 square feet this will allow enough time for placing.
How long does Exposed aggregate last?
How long does Exposed aggregate last? Exposed aggregate concrete is durable and long wearing. An exposed aggregate driveway can last up to 30 years with the right care and maintenance.
How do you fix patchy 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 make dark concrete lighter?
Going from a light to a dark color can be achieved with tinted sealers and colored coatings. But to go from dark to light, without making the surface look like it has been painted, often requires application of a micro-thin colored overlay.
Can you lighten gray concrete?
Expect to use more color hardener to overcome the gray concrete, he says, when you are trying to achieve a lighter color. Iannone notes titanium dioxide can also be used as a white pigment additive to make concrete whiter and brighter.
Is Exposed aggregate hard to walk?
Exposed aggregate is extremely attractive with unique designs. It is popular in residential properties but also in spaces that receive a continuous influx of people. It is non-slippery, making it safe for those walking around, whether young or old.
Is resurfacing a driveway a good idea?
Resurfacing is wonderful—it's cheaper, quicker and in some cases just as effective as replacement. However, there are many cases where driveway replacement isn't just better, it's necessary. To replace a driveway, the asphalt is removed but then the whole foundation is dug up and remade.
Does concrete resurfacing last?
Thanks to its durability, concrete resurfacing can last a long time. Considering it's been properly installed, well cared for and the existing concrete base is strong. A properly resurfaced floor can last from 10-20+ years.
Is concrete overlay a good idea?
They're Strong and Durable You can expect your floor coatings to last as long as your floors – which can be your whole life. You won't have to replace your floors every decade or so, the way you would with other flooring types. The only reason you'll have to change your floors is if you want a new look.
Do you have to seal aggregate?
Does exposed aggregate need to be sealed? Yes. These sealers—typically film-forming acrylic resins—can help protect against spalling, dusting, efflorescence, freeze-thaw damage, stains, deicing salts, and abrasion. A sealer will also enhance the color of the aggregate, accentuating its depth and richness.
Can you paint exposed aggregate concrete?
Over time, exposed concrete aggregate can get worn. A change to your landscaping or house color may prompt the desire to paint your aggregate to match. Whatever your reason for painting your aggregate, treat it just like painted concrete to get a solid, durable finish.
Is sealed exposed aggregate slippery?
Sealed surface may be slippery when wet. For additional slip resistance, use Glaze 'N Seal Grip 'N Seal additive. Product coverage will be 100 – 400 square feet per gallon for the first coat depending on surface porosity. Second coat will go up to 50% further.
How do you expose aggregate in old concrete?
Brushing and washingThis is the oldest method and the simplest because it doesn't require chemical retarders or special tools. You just wash away the thin layer of surface mortar covering the aggregate by spraying with water and scrubbing with a broom until the aggregate is exposed to the desired depth.
How to patch a crack in a concrete slab?
Fill any cracks and holes created by dislodged aggregate with vinyl concrete patching compound using a putty knife and trowel. Tamp the compound and wait a few hours for it to dry.
How to get decorative stones to stick to concrete?
Use a shovel to scatter decorative stones evenly over the surface. Press the aggregate into the wet concrete with a wood board, pushing just hard enough to embed the rocks in the wet concrete. Wait about two hours for it to begin hardening.
What is aggregate in driveway?
The term aggregate refers to the crushed rocks added to cement to increase the strength and durability of concrete. On an exposed aggregate driveway, colorful stones are laid on top of wet concrete to add a decorative, unique touch.
How to get cement off of a rock?
Hose off the surface and use a stiff broom to brush off the thin top layer of cement. Expose only the top of the aggregate. If the depth of exposure is too much, the rocks will soon dislodge.
Where is Aurora LaJambre?
Aurora LaJambre is a writer and editor living in Brooklyn, N.Y. For over five years she's covered topics in culture, lifestyle, travel, DIY design and green living for print and online media. Her publication credits include "WOW Women on Writing," "Six States" and Catalogs.com. She graduated from New York University in 2003 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in creative writing.
How to make concrete look like new?
Use a matting system and sealant to create the look of concrete without removing it all first, then adding fresh aggregate in just those places where you need them (typically around doorways or other walkable areas). The mats are durable enough that they won’t blow away from windy days – but they won’t work for large areas, and they have to be replaced or repaired when you need more aggregate.
What is exposed aggregate concrete?
Concrete that is exposed aggregate is a decorative finish where the top layer of concrete is removed to reveal colorful aggregate beneath it. So if you have an existing concrete structure that is structurally sound, you can use exposed aggregate concrete to resurface it to look just like exposed concrete. How do you fix bad Exposed aggregate ...
Why should you make sure your aggregate is clean?
Finally if you don’t want any of the above, at least make sure that your aggregate is clean so people can see where they’re walking – this will help them avoid slips or falls on rainy days as well!
What to cover a stucco floor with?
Cover with flagstone or other similarly shaped stones on top but again cover them in stucco to give it that luxurious Italian floor finish.
How much height increase for exposed aggregate?
With this approach, an important element to remember is that the original exposed aggregate is probably already at the height required, so make sure you account for as much as a 3 and 1/2 inch increase in height or the area. This is important to consider for existing stairs and doors etc.
What is a sealer for?
These sealers, usually acrylic resins or resins with film-forming properties, are ideal for protecting against dusting, spalling, freeze-thaw damage, efflorescence, abrasions, and stains. The aggregate will also appear richer and more color-toned with a sealer.
How long does a sandpaper cover last?
The pros are that it can be installed in a day or two and the surface is usually very smooth. The con would be that this method will only last for about six months before needing to cover again – which could still work out well if you want something temporary while your property undergoes renovations.
How to get rid of a sanded sand?
Start by applying a degreaser with a pump sprayer to remove oils, such as those from spilled foods or suntan lotions. Brush in the degreaser with a nylon-bristle broom, wait 10 to 15 minutes, and then wash off the surface with a garden hose or pressure washer. If water still beads on the surface, repeat the process.
What happens when acid is allowed to dry on concrete?
If acid is allowed to dry on the surface, byproducts of the reaction between acid and concrete cause a yellow film to form. This film will decrease bond between the overlay and the concrete substrate. After any water puddles on the rinsed surface have dried, mix the polymer-modified overlay to a wetter-than-normal consistency, ...
