The Pros and Cons of Exposed Aggregate
When it comes to concrete, exposed aggregate is considered one of the best options. This concrete will last for years without needing any maintenance. On the other hand, other concrete types may require constant professional attention to keep them looking their best. Exposed aggregate is a low-maintenance material and is a great option for homes. In comparison, stone pavers are expensive and require a lot of maintenance.
Decorative concrete
Decorative concrete with exposed aggregate Launceston is an option for those who want to add color and texture to their existing surfaces. The concrete is applied over the existing surface and the aggregate is mixed in. To protect the surface, a water-based sealant should be applied after installing the concrete. This will prevent dust and abrasions from destroying the finished surface. For added protection, use an acrylic resin. It should also be stain-resistant and will resist stains.

Decorative concrete with exposed aggregate is easy to install. It is applied similar to a regular finish, with the exception that the concrete used is mixed with different sizes of gravel and sand. The size and shape of the gravel should be carefully considered when laying the concrete. It can be stained, but you should be sure to clean the surface before staining. It can also be used as a sound barrier. And, once installed, exposed aggregate can blend with any decor.
Stamped concrete
Compared to other paving materials, stamped concrete needs less maintenance. It requires only occasional cleaning and resealing to stay looking great. The surface is also more resistant to dirt and water, which helps block the effects of abrasion and stains. This type of paving material is popular in pathways, parking areas, and parkland gardens. Here are some of the advantages of stamped concrete. Read on to learn more about this popular concrete type.
A slab of concrete usually costs around $150 to $300 per square metre, but some companies can charge as much as $550 per cubic metre. The total cost of your project will depend on the size and complexity of your location, the skill of your contractor, and the aesthetic goals you wish to achieve. For a more affordable option, you can go with a concrete contractor who specialises in this type of construction material. Depending on the area, size, and complexity of the project, stamped concrete can cost as little as $120 per square metre.
Broom finished concrete
The process of broom finished concrete with exposed aggregate involves removing the cement surface to reveal the stone, limestone, or sand. The exposed surface is then treated with a retarding chemical. In addition, the color of the stone must be considered. Compared to sandwashed or toweled concrete, exposed aggregate concrete has a more natural look and is less likely to show signs of wear and tear.
Broom finished concrete is one of the cheapest options for exterior surfaces, and is usually the preferred choice for driveways and sidewalks. The broom texture on broom finish concrete provides a slip resistant surface, making it ideal for areas prone to algae and frost. Broom finish concrete is also easy to clean and maintain. It also looks great when it is combined with an integral color. These two options can enhance a project.
Exposed aggregate
Despite its unique appearance, exposed aggregate flooring can be tricky to install. It is more vulnerable to damage if the top concrete layer is damaged. For these reasons, careful installation is necessary. However, there are a few advantages to exposed aggregate flooring. Here are some pros and cons of this popular flooring type:
First, exposed aggregate flooring is difficult to repair, since it isn’t always uniform. It is more difficult than regular concrete to replicate the look. You must carefully choose the type of aggregate and pack it correctly, as it will not always have a uniform surface. This also makes repairs a little more difficult than with plain concrete. Besides, you must invest in a sealant after five years to keep the surface looking good.
Cost
The cost of exposed aggregate varies from $45 to $180 per square meter. The cost of the finished coating depends on many factors, including the amount of area to be coated, the type of materials used and the amount of granular filler to be used. The price also depends on the features and extent of the result you want to achieve. Exposed aggregate can cost up to three times as much as standard concrete. If you want to save money, consider using a pre-mixed concrete.
Exposed aggregate is also easier to maintain than other types of concrete. With proper maintenance, you can expect your exposed aggregate flooring to look brand new for years to come. While other types of concrete require frequent professional attention, exposed aggregate is simple to maintain and provides excellent performance. The price of exposed aggregate depends on its style and pattern. If you want mosaic concrete flooring, this will require extra work, including polishing and grinding. Once your concrete is exposed, you can add decorative elements to it with decorative paints or other materials.
Durability
There are numerous advantages of using exposed aggregate. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but it’s also highly durable, as the concrete used for this material has a low water content. It also offers a stronger surface than brushed concrete, which requires more water to achieve a smooth finish. Exposed aggregate is an excellent option for those who want a decorative surface that lasts for many years. It can also be used for decorative purposes like swimming pool surrounds.
Although exposed aggregate can become rusty over time, it still looks very normal, grey, and smooth when new. Exposure to air causes the rust to concentrate around the offending particles. You can remove this stain with an iron stain remover. However, you should consider drilling the surface to remove any ironstones or pyrite. This prevents future rust and provides a more appealing finish. If the stain is too heavy, you can try using a rust-removal product that’s designed specifically for exposed aggregate.