Exposed Aggregate Concrete
The decorative process of exposing the aggregate from the concrete has been around for quite a long time. This finish is obtained by pouring (placing) concrete, followed by “washing”, removing the outer ‘skin’ of cement paste to uncover the decorative coarse aggregate stones.
This leaves a stunning “exposed aggregate” finish, otherwise known as washed aggregate. This decorative concrete finish is a hugely popular choice for Perth homes, businesses and commercial spaces.
Exposed aggregate is extremely durable, hard-wearing, non-slip and beautiful in its appearance.
Especially when used on residential homes, there’s no comparison to conventional brick-pavers, which have a tendency to sink and generally need replacing within as little as 5 to 10-year cycles, especially on high traffic areas such as driveways.
Exposed aggregate is now the standout choice for driveways and pathways; and because of its durability and skid resistance, an exposed aggregate finish is ideal for most flatwork, including sidewalks, driveways, alfresco, patios and pool decks.
What are the benefits to Exposed or Washed Aggregate?
There are many benefits to using exposed or washed aggregate on your project, particularly in areas such as driveways and pathways. These benefits include:
- Low maintenance
- Strong and durable
- Avoid Weeds
- Suitable for a wide range of areas, such as Driveways, Alfrescos & Footpaths
- Practical and stylish
- Available in a wide range of colours and “mixes”, including custom mixes
- Cost effective
An exposed-aggregate finish is also possible on concrete walls or tilt-up panels. Vertical applications include:
- Decorative retaining walls
- Architectural building facades
- Sound barrier walls
Exposed Aggregate "Fine Blends"
“Fine Blend” is the name given to mixes which have smaller aggregate pieces (stones) contained within the concrete. When exposing the aggregate, these smaller pieces are less rough than standard aggregate; which makes them a great choice for alfresco and pool surrounds, where customers don’t want to use a honed finish.
Fine Blends have a different aesthetic to normal blends, as there are a higher quantity of the smaller pieces of aggregate contained within the concrete mix, so changes the overall look.
Wondering whether to go a fine blend or standard blend? Give us a call and we would be happy to chat either over the phone or in person.
Premier Concrete Perth will guide you through the near unlimited choice of decorative concrete mixes. The possibilities of which, can totally transform your outdoor area in as little as one week.
Premier Concrete Perth can assist with all areas of your project needs; including reset levels, remove all old pavers, undertake any necessary groundworks and navigate any surface water to existing or new soak wells.
Next; we’ll form up your new space and install reinforced steel mesh. At Premier Concrete Perth, all of our concrete projects including exposed and honed concrete, are formed and poured at 100mm thickness with reinforced mesh, including all non-traffic areas. Unlike other competitors in the industry, there’s no cutting corners, saving on concrete and pouring at a lower depth. At every stage of our process, during design, batching, placement and finishing of the concrete, conscientious planning and steps are checked off to ensure the most professional concrete practices are performed, minimising any potential risks and delivering that trend setting finished you imagined from the start.
Following the concrete pour, a concrete retarder is applied to the surface delaying the surface from curing. Once the concrete has set the surface is then washed off, exposing a stunning decorative concrete mix and shimmering natural stone aggregates. A final wash is followed shortly after to remove any final impurities. Once set and sealed, not only do you now have the ultimate functional outdoor flooring, it also looks stunning and will set your new space apart.
Your finished space is a testament to the planning, passion, and experience from the entire team at Premier Concrete Perth, offering the seamless process and our ever growing customer base.
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