Considerations To Bear In Mind For Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate gives a natural and decorative look to paving. Standard grey concrete comprises aggregates mixed with cement and water. However, exposed aggregate is filled with ornamental crushed rocks, pebbles and other elements. The top layer of cement is washed away after the concrete is poured, revealing these colourful pieces. Exposed aggregate is durable and long-lasting, just like ordinary concrete. But it's more attractive and will help improve your kerb view or garden aspect, depending on where it's installed. Here are some considerations to keep in mind for your project.
Design Variety
Exposed aggregate gives you many design options. For a driveway, you could choose dark crushed stones in blue and black, and the contractor could add coloured oxides to the cement mix itself. Dark paving will help to conceal dirt or grease spots. Because exposed aggregate has a speckled appearance, it blends in better with the landscape than smooth, grey concrete, which can stick out starkly from the natural world. You can pick out colours from the roof, external walls or garden, and mix pebbles in those hues within the concrete. Or, you could opt for contrast instead.
Pool Deck Design
Exposed aggregate's texture visually integrates it with elements such as grass, soil and a pile of leaves. Textured paving is also safer and less slippery than a uniform surface. For this reason, exposed aggregate is an ideal option for pool decks. Instead of going for dark colours, you could add pebbles in tan, pink, cream and white to give the area a beach vibe. Rounded pebbles are kinder on bare feet than angular crushed stones.
Remember that exposed aggregate can be combined with other options, such as stamped concrete. For example, you could install a border of stamped concrete around the pool to mimic travertine pavers. Then, install aggregate in other spots, harmonising the colours in the two designs. You can easily match the paving colours to those on the pool walls and in the overall landscape.
Cleaning
As aggregate concrete has elements that protrude, you must take care to regularly give it a good clean. Ask your contractor for their recommendations. Often, washing with a garden hose and sweeping so that grime doesn't settle around the stones is the best practice. A pressure washer can damage the sealant or aggregates, but this depends on the pressure used. Sealing the concrete regularly, as advised, is also crucial to keep it looking attractive and protect the aggregates. Your contractor can give you advice about how frequently to seal the paving.