EXPOSED AGGREGATE & STAMPED CONCRETE

Exposed Aggregate Reveals the True Beauty of Concrete

Exposed Aggregate concrete a plain unremarkable surface has been stripped away to reveal the exceptional beauty lying beneath. The decorative process of exposing aggregate has been around since the early 1900s. An exposed aggregate finish offers numerous advantages. We are finding creative ways to take exposed aggregate to a new level.

What is Exposed Aggregate and Where Is it Used?

An exposed aggregate surface is obtained by placing concrete and the removing the outer ‘ skin ‘ of cement paste to uncover decorative course aggregate. Because of its durability and skid resistance, an exposed aggregate finish is ideal for most flatwork including – Sidewalks, Driveways, Patios, Pool Decks, Plazas.
MI Construction Inc – Color Chart
www.solomoncolors.com

Decorative Stamped Concrete is Appealing

First it is an economical alternative to pavers and natural stone. It requires less maintenance than those materials because it has no joints where weed growth can occur.  Adding to the value of stamped concrete is the materials longevity. Stamped concrete is one of the most durable and long lasting paving materials available.
From an aesthetic standpoint, stamped concrete is hard to beat when it comes to pattern and color options, which are virtually unlimited.
MI Construction Inc – Brickform Stamps & Color Chart
www.brickform.com
www.solomoncolors.com

Does Stamped Concrete Look Fake?

Stamped concrete looks very realistic because most stamping mats are molded from actual materials they are designed to replicate. To achieve natural – looking color variations, such as you would see in real stone, we use integral or dry shake color in conjunction with surface – applied coloring mediums. If anything stamped concrete looks better than the real thing. You will not get weed or moss growth in between the joints. Even if the color has faded due to years of neglect or lack of maintenance, it can often be restored to its original state by cleaning and resealing

Can I use Salt on Concrete in the Winter?

You should avoid using deicing salts on any concrete, especially during the first winter after pavement is installed. Using deicer salts can cause surface damage – primarily scaling and spalling – by forcing the thawing and refreezing of moisture. Products containing ammonium nitrates and ammonium sulfates are especially harmful because they actually attack the concrete chemically. Rock salt (sodium chloride) or calcium chloride will do less damage, but they can harm vegetation and corrode metal. As an alternative, use sand for traction.