Exposed Aggregate - Why Is it So Popular?

Exposed aggregate concrete is a style of decorative concrete where the aggregates of the cement, mainly pebbles and small stones, are exposed in contrast to the traditional smooth finish of concrete surfaces. Exposed aggregate concrete adds visual interest to a surface because of its random designs and diverse colors.
It is a cost-effective way to give old or new concrete an appealing look. Aside from looks and a reasonable price, exposed aggregate also features the main characteristic of concrete - strength. All these make this option widely popular. Because it's very hard wearing, some common applications of exposed aggregate concrete are public areas including footpaths and traffic areas such as driveways, sidewalks, patios, plazas or pool decks. It can also be used on vertical applications such as decorative walls and building facades.
Aside from the fact that it is durable against heavy traffic and oftentimes cheaper than other decorative concrete techniques, here are more reasons why exposed aggregate concrete is popular:

• It has practically limitless texture and color options allowing a customized look. With the exception of sealing the finish and cleaning it occasionally, this option is very low maintenance.
• Its rugged surface poses less of a slipping hazard than brushed concrete.
• It is resistant to harsh climate conditions.
• Fewer tools or additional materials are needed in this method than other options.
• This method is easier to learn and master than other decorative concrete techniques.
• This technique has long been used since the early 20th century but it continues to be popular today with contractors discovering even more creative ways of using it. The two most common ways of achieving exposed aggregate concrete are:

1. Surface Dressing - In this method, decorative aggregate such as decorative stones, gravel, crushed glass, shells or quartzite is seeded onto freshly-placed cement. The cement must first be tapped about 5 to 9 mm below the required finish level before the aggregates are spread evenly over it and patted down the concrete surface. This method is ideal for smaller projects such as patios and garden footpaths.
2. Washed to Expose - The fresh concrete surface is washed away to expose the aggregates that are already part of the cement's ingredients. Specifically, the cement's fines are stripped away from the top 2 to 6 mm of the concrete surface to reveal the aggregates. This is the preferred method for commercial or heavy-duty applications.
In choosing a decorative aggregate, keep in mind that the type will determine the color palette of the finish and will also have an impact on the project's overall cost. There are many reasonably-priced aggregates that will produce great results. Aside from color, hardness, shape, size and durability, consider locally-produced aggregates because they are readily available and, therefore, more economical.
Even more stunning effects can be achieved with exposed aggregate with the use of advanced techniques such as creating contrast by using different aggregates or alternating smooth surfaces with exposed aggregate finished areas. Some use strips of wood patterned stamped concrete as dividers to create accent. The possibilities when it comes to design are almost endless. What you can be certain of is that this decorative technique will offer you excellent value for your money.

Cory Grant is a second generation Decorative Concrete Professional. He is an enthusiast and enjoys sharing his knowledge on what he learns in the industry with other professionals and those who are seeking advice for their Decorative Concrete Project.
Take the time to visit his site http://www.corygrantconcrete.com and visit his blog to keep up to date with all the latest stuff happening in the industry.

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Decorative Aggregates Create Low Maintenance Gardens With a High Quality Feel

Decorative aggregates can create a low maintenance garden with a high quality feel giving you the benefits of less hard work and more spare time to relax and admire your handiwork. Others too will admire the simple beauty of the natural stone in a natural setting. Isn't it time you invested in your garden?
The advantages of gravel and other aggregates in the garden cannot be overstated. They are the natural choice for paths, patio areas and more. Stone has a timelessness that can complement any garden area in a way that unnatural stone products such as concrete never can.
There's a quality feel and look to decorative aggregates in the garden, whether it be simple smooth golden gravel or beach pebbles, plum coloured slate or buff-coloured cobbles. This natural product, when properly planned and arranged, can and usually will, transform a garden space from something that's normal and acceptable into something that is unique and spectacular.
Aggregates and gravel not only look good in the garden. They provide you with a low maintenance feature that saves you work and time. It will make your garden look so much more elegant and stylish while cutting down on labour intensive weeding and lawn mowing. Meanwhile, you can enjoy the fruits of your labours.
Paths and driveways are the obvious places for aggregates and gravels. They don't have to be majestic sweeping driveways common in stately homes; they need only serve their purpose, no matter how small. If you are able to park a car in your driveway you will never tire of the satisfying crunch of decorative aggregates under wheels.
If you have a patio area, then this too is an ideal place for aggregates, pebbles or gravel. It will look so much better than a smoothed over concrete area ever will. It will also be easier to maintain than a tiled area or even a wooden deck. And of course, you will have that satisfying crunch of fresh aggregates underfoot that no concrete, tiles or wood can ever supply.
Decorative aggregates can also be used in plant and flower beds. They serve three main purposes here: they look great; they lessen the evaporation of moisture from the soil; and they serve to bind the soil and lessen the possibility of soil erosion during heavy rains.
All this also means that you will have less work to do. That is only one way that natural stone pieces can make a garden a low maintenance area while enhancing its aesthetic appearance.
If you have a large area of lawn it is likely that you will appreciate anything that will cut down on the mowing that has to be done on a regular basis. Decorative aggregates can be used here to create small winding paths across the lawn. They can be practical and they will look good too as they will break up the blank monotony of a large grass area.
There is no end to what can be done with gravel, pebbles, slate and general aggregates in a garden to create a low maintenance space that you can be proud of. Scatter pebbles around the edge of a pond. Use small rugged pieces of stone around a waterfall or other water feature. Be creative and enjoy a garden enhanced with natural stone.

David A Robinson
Help and information about using decorative aggregates for driveways and gardens.

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