Are you about to renovate your front yard?
Are you looking for information on exposed aggregate driveway maintenance?
Are you about to use exposed aggregate concrete?
If your answer to all such questions is yes, then you’ve come to the right online destination. This post will discuss everything you need to know when it comes to exposed aggregate concrete. This is a very easy-to-understand post as all information will be given to you by answering the most frequently asked questions when it comes to exposed aggregate concrete. So read on, take note, and enjoy your renovation!
Table of Contents
FAQ #1: Are There Advantages To Using Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
Yes. They are as follows:
- They are highly durable.
- They are very easy to maintain.
- They are not slippery and will not make any space prone to accidents.
- They are weather resistant.
- They are visually attractive.
- They will allow homeowners to liberally customize as there are varied textures and colours to choose from.
FAQ #2: How long Will my exposed Aggregate Concrete Last?
Exposed aggregate concrete on a regular space can last for up to 30 years when given proper maintenance and care. This is because exposed aggregate concrete is highly durable and weather-resistant.
In a space where it can get exposed to chemicals through – like a swimming pool and its chlorine content – an exposed aggregate concrete can only last for up to two decades or 20 years. Such duration is still long but it is cut shorter due to chemical exposure.
FAQ #3: How Is Exposed Aggregate Concrete Produced?
The goal in the creation of exposed aggregate concrete is to show an aesthetically pleasing substrate that has a detailed texture finish and it entails the top layer of concrete to be washed back. This results in a material that is non-slip and highly durable.
FAQ #4: How Do Homeowners Maintain Their Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
Maintenance is pretty simple if one has exposed aggregate concrete. One simply needs to regularly sweep and hose down the space. Hot high-pressure water can be used if there is a need to remove stubborn oil marks or tyre marks. For it to last long, resealing should also be done every few years.
FAQ #5: Is It More Expensive To Have Exposed Aggregate?
Yes, an exposed aggregate concrete will cost you more if compared to what it would cost you if you’d opt for plain concrete. This is because you will need to spend on additional materials and additional labour. You will need to work with experts that know what they’re doing to achieve a lovely finish.
FAQ #6: Are There Guidelines For Choosing Colours?
You simply need to take note of the following:
- There are two main components to consider: the base concrete and the aggregate.
- You will need to choose the colour, size, and texture of each.
- You can base your choice on the size of your area.
- You can also base it on the aesthetic that you want to achieve.
FAQ #7: Will An Exposed Aggregate Concrete Be Ideal For A Pool?
Absolutely! Exposed aggregate concrete is the perfect choice if you’d be designing for a pool or a spa. This is because it has a non-slip surface. Exposed aggregate concrete remains non-slip even when it is wet. It will also not shift at all, unlike tiles or pavers. It also offers a versatile look that is very easy to install.
FAQ #8: How Long Will It Take For Exposed Aggregate Concrete To Set?
This answer will depend on the size of the project. But usually, it would only take two days before one can already walk on a newly set exposed aggregate concrete. You should of course avoid any kind of heavy traffic for at least 30 days after it is set.
FAQ #9: Will I Need To Seal Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
Yes. It needs sealing because it needs to be protected from the following: stains, damage, and regular wear and tear. It will also aid in making the concrete look finished and extra appealing as its colours and texture will be duly highlighted.
FAQ #10: How Often Should Resealing Be Done?
You should do it every one or two years. This will greatly depend on the following:
- The strength of the sealant that you originally used
- The level of traffic that the concrete deals with
- The weather conditions
- The effectivity of the application of the first sealant
To ensure that your sealant gets applied properly, you should dedicate time and effort to looking for a trustworthy and competent contractor.
FAQ #11: How Do I Clean Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
As already mentioned earlier, this is something that is not complicated at all to do. Exposed aggregate concrete is very easy to maintain. You can clean it by simply doing the following:
- Regular sweeping
- Regular hosing after sweeping
- Using of hot high pressure water in case there is a need to remove grease or stains
FAQ #12: Can I Use Exposed Aggregate Concrete For Commercial Projects?
Yes! Exposed aggregate concrete is widely used in commercial spaces. This is because it is non-slip, highly durable, long-lasting, and low maintenance. It does not require much upkeep so it is very popular in schools, public facilities, offices, and other commercial spaces. Businesses find that opting for an exposed aggregate concrete allows them to give more value to their money.