For a unique and special touch, consider transforming your concrete with techniques to create exposed aggregate concrete. There are three techniques that you can use to create the exposed aggregate look. Each of them work well in specific instances, but all result in a beautifully finished product. Read on to find out more about which technique for creating the exposed aggregate is right for you.
The brushing and washing technique is perhaps the simplest way to get the aggregate in concrete to show. It is best used in smaller applications instead of large projects. It can be done without any dangerous chemicals or special tools. Essentially, this technique of exposing the aggregate stones in your concrete is nothing more than spraying or sweeping the cement paste off from the aggregate that lies under the paste. Use a stiff broom or a steady stream of pressurized water to gently remove the cement paste without harming the aggregate. Again, this technique must be used at the proper time (i.e. when the cement paste is still soft but the aggregate is solidified and will not get dislodged from the strain). For this reason it is mainly recommended for smaller projects.
Another way you can achieve the exposed aggregate look is by using a chemical that is called a surface retarder. This chemical is designed to keep the cement paste from setting so fast, giving workers a longer period in which they can scrub off the cement paste to expose the aggregate rocks. This spray is applied directly after the concrete has been laid, allowing the concrete layers to hold off on the exposing process for about twenty-four hours. Using this chemical allows larger jobs to be done over a much longer period of time than would usually be allowed without the retardant.
The last method of creating exposed aggregate concrete is to use a sand blaster to erode the cement paste away from the rock. The advantage of doing it this way is that it can be done on older concrete–that is, on concrete that was laid years ago. The major disadvantage of this method, however, is that the blasting process can chip and wear down the aggregate rock, sometimes even fracturing the individual pebbles. This leads to a bit more worn appearance, and the aggregate is not nearly as shiny as they could be using one of the other methods. If you are looking for the best method to preserve the color and beauty of the individual pebbles, this method should be avoided.
The three basic techniques to creating a “pebbled” look in your concrete floor, patio, or walkway give anyone a variety of methods to choose from. While it is the easiest, the brush and spray method is also the method that gives the worker the least amount of time. To remedy this, you might consider using a surface retardant to slow down the concrete’s setting process. However, if your concrete is old and simply needs a new face, the blasting method might be the best option for you. These three methods have all been known to produce good results, and can change your concrete from a dull floor to a beautiful and natural piece of art.
