how do you clean exposed aggregate concrete

^{Steps to Clean Exposed Aggregate}

1. Saturate the surface with a cleaner leaving it to absorb into the concrete.
2. While the surface remains wet, scrub the surface with a stiff-bristled broom to agitate and help the cleaner penetrate and loosen the dirt.
3. Use a hose with a nozzle or ideally a high power pressure washer to sequentially move from the high end of the concrete slab to the lower ...
4. Let dry
5. Protect the finish by sealing the Exposed Aggregate Concrete Slab.

What is the best concrete sealer for exposed aggregate?

When selecting an exposed aggregate sealer, look for a product that:

• Is non-yellowing and UV resistant
• Will provide a high-gloss wet look that deepens and enriches the color of the aggregate
• Repels oil, grease, water, and stains
• Is recoatable

How much does it cost to install exposed aggregate concrete?

How Much Does Exposed Aggregate Concrete Cost. As with concrete, exposed aggregate concrete is considered less expensive than interlocking stone. Installing exposed aggregate concrete is typically $2 per square feet more than the cost of installing regular concrete. To get a more detailed quote for installing exposed aggregate concrete, speak to a reputable landscape company like Markstone Lansdcaping who has experience with creating different exposed aggregate concrete landscaping designs.

How to pour exposed aggregate?

Part 1 Part 1 of 3: Preparing to Pour Download Article

1. Build a wooden box. This box will hold the concrete in place until it is fully cured. ...
2. Place the box in the designated area. This area must be relatively flat.
3. Hammer stakes in along the perimeter. ...
4. Bring the box to the appropriate height and nail it to the stakes. ...
5. Level and compact the surface within the box. ...

More items...

How to seal aggregate concrete?

• For EXTERIOR application ONLY.
• Perform a test to ensure sealer compatibility.
• Brush may be used where roller won’t reach.
• Do not pour directly from container onto concrete.
• 1 ¼” nap roller for exposed aggregate
• 1” nap roller for textured surfaces
• ¾” short nap roller for smooth surfaces.

What is the best cleaner for exposed aggregate?

Oil & Grease Stains 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.

How do you refresh exposed aggregate?

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.

How do you maintain Exposed aggregate concrete?

Clean and apply Before applying either a penetrating or topical sealer, you must clean the exposed aggregate concrete. Pressure wash the dirt and grime off the surface, use rust remover to remove rust and a cleaner/degreaser to tackle tough oil spills. After cleaning the concrete, allow a day to dry.

How do you keep aggregate clean?

Keeping it Clean Use a power washer with hot water and a concrete-safe commercial chemical cleaner/de-greaser. The hot water will lift oil to the surface and the de-greaser will emulsify it so it washes away. You can use a stiff-bristled brush for extra-stubborn stains.

How do you make concrete look new again?

3 Ways to Make Old Concrete Look New AgainPower Wash. Over time, your concrete will accumulate grime and dirt. ... Resurface. If you're looking for a quick and easy way to improve your curb appeal, resurfacing your concrete steps and driveway is a great way to start. ... Add Stain or Sealing Coats. ... Revive Your Old Concrete.

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.

Can you use bleach and water to clean concrete?

For lightly soiled concrete, you can remove dirt by using bleach mixed with water. Add 1/8th cup of liquid dishwashing detergent to the solution and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the surface, and let it sit for a few minutes. Scrub with a nylon-bristled brush.

Do I need to seal my exposed aggregate driveway?

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.

How do you polish aggregate concrete?

0:383:53Polished Concrete Profiles: How to Achieve Different Levels of SheenYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBy 1500 grit dry to achieve the appropriate polish. Often times you have to use very aggressiveMoreBy 1500 grit dry to achieve the appropriate polish. Often times you have to use very aggressive metal bond diamond tooling ran wet to expose brass divider strips on this overlay.

Why do you acid wash exposed aggregate concrete?

An acid-wash treatment (1 hydrochloric acid to between 10 and 20 parts water) is usually necessary to brighten up the stones by removing the fine cement film from the surface. The surface should first be thoroughly wetted to prevent acid soaking into the concrete and weakening the bond to the exposed aggregates.

Can you fix exposed aggregate?

Step-by-step guide to patch exposed aggregate concrete. All of this sounds fairly pessimistic, but patching exposed aggregate concrete is certainly possible. Whether you attempt this as a DIY project or call in the pros for a proper fix, here are the steps that have to be taken for a job well done.

Can you repair exposed aggregate concrete?

With the loss of the aggregate, the slab develops surface bald patches or depressions. To restore the appearance of the slab, you must patch these damaged areas. An epoxy mix, combined with new aggregate, can provide the patch you need.

Can you color Exposed aggregate concrete?

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.

How do you fix crumbling aggregate concrete?

1:584:26How to repair an exposed aggregate concrete sidewalk with MatchCrete ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo don't wait too long you can drop it a little bit extra rock here to fill up these cracks theMoreSo don't wait too long you can drop it a little bit extra rock here to fill up these cracks the bigger ones go back and just bloom. In can move around a little bit if you have to just work your way.

Why cleaning aggregate is different from other concrete surfaces

Consider what exposed aggregate actually is. There is concrete as the base and majority of the material, but mixed into it is a custom aggregate or material that gives it texture and colour. This aggregate can be anything from crushed or polished rocks to seashells and porcelain chips.

6 steps for clean exposed aggregate concrete

The good news is that properly cleaning exposed aggregate is not difficult once you know what to do (and what not to do). So put any water blasting or overly high powered washers away, and check out our step-by-step overview of how to get your concrete looking fresh.

Concrete care tips to avoid cleaning overall

Getting clean exposed aggregate concrete is rather straightforward once you have the right equipment and know the best steps for the job. But most homeowners would agree that preventing the job for as long as possible is preferrable. After all, who wants to clean a driveway often? (hint: no one)

Protect your concrete surfaces with the pros at Concept Concrete

While concrete sealers are on the market, it’s best to leave the application of this added protection to the pros. And at Concept Concrete, we have extensive experience installing, maintaining, and protecting concrete surfaces of all shapes, sizes, and varieties.

What is the most common stains that require cleaning off exposed aggregate?

Algae & Mould. These are one of the most common stains that require cleaning off exposed aggregate. Any moisture that is left to settle on your driveway can start to form mould, especially if there is very little sunlight.

What is exposed aggregate driveway?

Exposed aggregate driveways are made up of a mixture of cement and other material, usually stones. This gives exposed aggregate that spectacular speckled look. Unlike cement, exposed aggregate is not a uniform slab and the stones within the cement can be damaged or loosened by strenuous cleaning.

What to do if a stain remains after scrubbing?

If the stain remains after scrubbing, refer to the driveway cleaning product to see if you can reapply the product.

Why does my driveway have oil stains?

Oil and grease stains on exposed aggregate driveways are primarily caused by vehicles parked on the driveway that has an oil leak. If left to sit on your driveway for too long, it can cause permanent damage to the exposed aggregate. The best way to clean oil and grease stains from your exposed aggregate driveway is to apply a driveway cleaning ...

How to remove tyre marks from driveway?

To clean the tyre stain from your exposed aggregate driveway you’ll need a strong chemical degreaser, protective clothing, a hard broom or brush and a high-pressure cleaning machine.

Can you use high pressure cleaner on exposed aggregate?

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. View our guide for advice on what pressure to use when cleaning your exposed aggregate driveway.

Can you use water based cleaner on driveway?

Apply a driveway cleaning chemical or water-based cleaner, depending on the type of stain you have. Before you apply the driveway cleaning solution, carefully read the instructions and warnings on the product. We recommend speaking to someone at the hardware store or seeking a quote from a Perth driveway cleaning company before attempting DIY driveway cleaning.

What is exposed aggregate?

Exposed aggregate is a common theme around many backyard swimming pools, and it’s often a gorgeous accent to poolside appeal. These surfaces are heavily used and begin to lose their luster. We here at Concrete Decor found a couple of great products that help with cleaning and resealing exposed aggregate of hard water/mineral deposits. These products also clean off other chemicals that make the concrete look less than appealing.

Why use profiler on concrete?

Because The Profiler (a muriatic acid in a gel form) lays on the surface of the concrete without absorbing into the cement. It only removes hard mineral deposits from the surface without deteriorating the cement. This helps to keep the exposed aggregate in place.

Does gelled acid damage concrete?

Better yet, the product won’t hurt surrounding plants when washing the surface after an application. Gelled acid will also NOT penetrate the concrete surface and loosen aggregate. It stays on the surface where you need it to do its job.

How to remove mortar from a concrete slab?

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. The timing of the operation is critical, however, so this method is often better suited for small jobs. The work should begin as soon as the surface mortar can be removed without overexposing or dislodging the aggregate. You can test this by lightly brushing away the surface mortar in a small area with a stiff nylon-bristle broom.

How to remove cement paste from slab?

This delays the set and gives them the flexibility to remove the cement paste up to a day or so later, either by scrubbing or pressure washing. This flexibility can be especially important on large jobs or during hot weather.

What is the disadvantage of abrasive blasting?

The disadvantage of abrasive blasting is that it can fracture the aggregate and dull its appearance.

What is exposed aggregate concrete?

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 to expose the rocks underneath.

How to tell if a sealer is still on concrete?

Sealer Testing: Simply pouring some fresh water onto the concrete surface will tell you if any sealer is still holding onto the concrete. With that gorgeous ocean in the background. it’s possible that over time the previous coating has disintegrated. Water beading up on the surface will tell you that a sealer is still present.

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.

How long does a penetrating 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. Penetrating sealers won’t secure loose stones or prevent stones from coming loose. If you need to secure loose stones, an acrylic sealer is a better choice.

How does concrete sealer work?

They can extend the life of the concrete by protecting the surface from harsh winter freeze-thaw cycles and hot 90-degree summer days. Sealers also can block ultra-violet rays that cause fading and inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.

How many square feet per gallon of sealer?

It’s best to work in smaller 4-by-4-foot sections. You should apply the sealer at the manufacturer’s recommended spread rate. This is typically between 100 and 150 square feet per gallon.

Seal your exposed aggregate concrete

If you want to extend the life of your concrete surface, consider concrete sealing. Sealing provides a layer of protection against hazards, impact damage, and general wear and tear. The right sealant will also provide protection against UV-related fading and weather damage (and we all know how temperamental Melbourne’s weather can be).

General cleaning tips for exposed aggregate concrete

Maintenance of exposed aggregate concrete comes down to regular cleaning. It’s easier to spend 10 to 15 minutes each weekend performing a quick clean than waiting 6 months and trying to tackle built-in dirt, grime, and muck.

Common stains to watch out for

No matter how careful you are, your concrete driveway, garage, or commercial space is going to take a beating. From accidental spills to unavoidable stains, here are the hazards to keep an eye out for.

Looking for striking & stylish exposed aggregate concrete in Melbourne?

Prevention is always better than a cure. The quality of your concrete installation will go a long way towards your maintenance program. The wrong concrete installation team in Melbourne can leave you with constantly chipping surfaces that end up a nightmare to maintain (and extremely painful to walk on bare feet).

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.

What is the best way to seal concrete?

Hand float and hand edge along the outside. Hand edging the concrete will create a nice rounded edge as opposed to a sharp rigid one. It will also seal the edge. If an error is created in the edging process, use the hand float to clean up along the edge. The hand float should be used to seal up any holes that are reachable.

How far down do you dig to make concrete even?

To make the surface of the concrete even with the ground, you must dig down 4 inches.

How to make a concrete pad?

1. Build a wooden box. This box will hold the concrete in place until it is fully cured. It is important it is symmetrical and nailed together properly because your concrete pad will resemble this box. Use 2x4s in order to obtain 4 inch thick concrete. Use 2x6s in order to obtain 6 inch thick concrete.

What is screeding concrete?

Screed the concrete. Essentially, screeding is leveling out the top of the concrete. Run a strait board on the top of your forms across the concrete, if there is a large pile-up, have someone rake back the pile so you can proceed with the screed process.

What to do if holes in a wall won't close?

If some holes will not close up, you can sprinkle some water to aid in the process.

Can you pour aggregate concrete at home?

This article is helpful to anybody who wants to pour exposed aggregate concrete at home or for commercial use. It will explain the proper procedure and list all the necessary materials. This decorative concrete is generally more expensive to have done by a company so doing it yourself can save you lots of money.

Does cement have to be pressurized?

Yes and no. It depends on the nature of the mix (the ratio of aggregate to cement) as pressurization is a factor in the density of the vacuum.