Exposed aggregate concrete is a unique and hard-wearing product that highlights the natural textures of different aggregates like stones and pebbles. The aesthetic and tactile quality of the aggregates is exposed in the hardening stage of laying concrete. The mix is spread, levelled, and then meticulously washed to reveal the colourful, shape-textured face of the attractive material.
We keep seeing this product throughout Melbourne, which signals the contribution it gives to property aesthetics. As the urban landscape improves, so does the need to ascend one's aesthetic and tactile property portfolio, where one's driveway or courtyard is certainly included in the overall mix.
The product is tangible. We create it (just to name a few) in your brand new driveway or if you like it so much, we can mix and design it into your alfresco area or your swimming pool surrounds. Consider the last two examples given, the finished product surface is not only a visual item; its finish inherently has a safe quality, non-slip surface, which in Melbourne's weather is a very smart choice compared to an older, highly polished product in the wet.
What is Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative concrete finish that gets its name (and its character) from the natural stones or aggregates in the concrete mix. Those stones are "exposed" when the top layer of the cement paste is removed. The stones can be anything from pebbles to special aggregates like recycled coloured glass. The procedure works like this: you pour concrete, let it harden slightly, then use either a chemical surface retarder or water (on simple jobs) to wash away the top layer of cement. That top layer can also be removed by brushing or blasting.
This decorative finish offers many advantages when it comes to driveways, patios, and walkways. The unique construction of the concrete ensures a hardened surface, high levels of compressive strength, and tremendous durability. The overall strength provided by concrete means it will stand up to regular foot traffic. It's also ideal for a driveway because of its resilience to inclement weather. Finally, the installation of this concrete (from start to finish) is also relatively easy, so you can rest assured that the process won't be a difficult one.
Exploring Concrete Finishes and Textures
Exposed aggregate is a type of concrete finish that has become quite popular in and around Melbourne. Rather than the smooth finish you are likely used to, exposed aggregate shows off the natural texture and aesthetic appeal of the stones and small pieces of aggregate, used within the base material itself—concrete!—giving it a unique look that really does stand out in a crowd. Plus, it’s the perfect surface for a bringing modern driveway design to life, and a whole lot more, simple because the finish can easily double down to help give you driveway some much-added curb appeal. And this all comes with an excellent feature (if you are looking at having it poured outside): slip-resistance!
Finding the Right Concrete Contractors in Melbourne
Experience is a must for concrete contractors if you want a high-quality job. With experience comes expertise in completing a job properly, ensuring all industry standards are met, and knowing how to avoid or fix mistakes, so they aren't as costly. Those living in Melbourne should hire local, and the three main points to consider are the contractor’s experience, looking at their portfolio (i.e., previous work), and reading their reviews.
Adding to the complexity of laying concrete, for those wanting an exposed aggregate concrete look, you’ll need to find a concrete contractor who knows how to do so, and do so well. This specific type of driveway finish includes skills not common among all concrete contractors, so be sure to check out the local building associations in Melbourne to find one that does. There are also a plethora of websites that include reviews to help you make an informed decision.