Exposed Aggregate & Stamped Concrete
Exposed Aggregate Reveals the True Beauty of Concrete
Exposed aggregate concrete transforms a plain, unremarkable surface by stripping away the top layer to reveal the exceptional beauty beneath. This decorative process, which has been around since the early 1900s, offers numerous advantages. We are continuously 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 removing the outer ‘skin‘ of cement paste to uncover decorative coarse 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
Decorative Stamped Concrete Is Appealing
First, stamped concrete 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 material’s 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
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 similar to those seen 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 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 the 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 can harm vegetation and corrode metal. As an alternative, use sand for traction.