You can put a concrete overlay, stamped concrete, tile or pavers, decorative coatings, or outdoor carpeting over an exposed aggregate concrete surface to achieve a different look or cover the existing surface. These options provide various aesthetics and can be chosen based on your preferences and the desired outcome.
You can easily cover up the exposed aggregate. Just put on a coat to fill it in and then a topping coat that you broom. Needs to be thoroughly cleaned first, probably a light grind and then remove the dust. Make sure to honor all joints.
Steps to Resurface Over Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Primer Application: Apply a primer to help the new surface adhere to the old one. Resurfacing Mix Application: Apply the resurfacing mix evenly using a squeegee or trowel. Curing: Allow the surface to cure for the recommended time before using it.
Unfortunately, there is no simple way to resurface exposed aggregate concrete with a pour over product and if there are major issues with cracking or changes in level, the only way to truly fix the issue is to demolish the path and lay a new one.
Use concrete paint or epoxy for a fresh, colorful look. Epoxy is durable and suitable for heavy use. Install turf patches or full coverage for a green, low-maintenance look. Add raised planters, hanging plants, or vertical gardens to draw attention away from the concrete.
Because paint is opaque, it can also cover up discolorations and stains on your existing concrete pad. The con of painting concrete is that it is not nearly as durable as staining. Over time, the paint can fade and chip away. It can get scratched when you move heavy furniture or can be damaged by bad weather.
Power Washing
You will likely be surprised at just how much dirt, debris, and strains a strong pressure washer can get out of your concrete. There are also some excellent concrete cleaners that are made to help get stains from tires, oil, and dirt out of your concrete.
A pump-up sprayer is what we recommend to put a thin layer of sealer on the concrete. Then, you let it dry, and apply another layer. Typically two light, or thin coats, are better than applying one heavy coat. It's a good practice to let the exposed aggregate be able to breathe.
Your Exposed Aggregate Questions, Answered
Absolutely! You can color exposed aggregate concrete by adding integral color to the mix or by applying stains after the surface has been exposed.
In most cases yes! Honing existing washed aggregate is a great way to take your tired looking concrete surfaces and give them a new, stylish appearance.
Grey: The colour grey is classic, and it has a shade that compliments nearly every home. Depending on your choice, grey can offer a welcoming traditional feel, a sleek modern look, or anything in between.
Seal the Surface for Protection
Sealing protects the surface from moisture, UV rays, stains, and wear, ensuring that the concrete retains its vibrant look and resists cracking or pitting. Ideally, the surface should be sealed every one to three years, depending on the level of wear and exposure to the elements.
When added to the concrete mix, the sugar molecules prevent the hydration reaction from producing the calcium silicate crystals. As you increase the amount of sugar in the mix, fewer cement molecules can produce calcium silicate crystals. This is why sugar will eventually prevent concrete from setting up altogether.
There are two main types of sealers commonly used for exposed aggregate concrete: film-forming sealers and penetrating sealers. Film-forming sealers create a protective layer on the surface of the concrete, providing good protection against stains while enhancing the colour and sheen of the aggregate.
Spray-Applied, Water-Soluble Surface Retarder. TOP-STOP is a spray-applied, water-soluble surface retarder designed to slow the set of surface mortar in concrete to expose the aggregate.
Further clean the exposed aggregate with water using a garden hose or, if available, a high-pressure cleaner. Be very careful when choosing to use a high-pressure cleaner on exposed aggregate as if your pressure is too high, you can cause damage to the cement and the loosen the stones from your driveway.
Does exposed aggregate concrete require sealing is a common question that can only be answered with an emphatic yes. Applying sealant will protect the top surface of the concrete that holds the gravel and stones in place, extending its lifespan while protecting against stains and damage.
However, despite the passing of the years, it is not at all outdated, but many professionals get the best of themselves to create authentic pieces of art. A creativity with which the professionals are taking this finish to another level. The exposed aggregate concrete is classified within the decorative pavements.
Polishing prone aggregates are to be avoided as this can lead to a loss of skid resistance. In order for the skid resistance not to diminish with time, the coarse aggregates used in the PCC mix must be wear resistant.
Concrete Overlays: Applying a thin layer of fresh concrete can help to hide the ghosting. This is a more extensive solution but can be effective. It's like giving your floor a fresh coat of paint.
Concrete resurfacing is often seen as the best way to remedy worn, chipped, or spalling concrete without replacement. However, while it may seem like an attractive option, it's important to understand that it is usually only a temporary fix, especially in areas with frequent temperature and moisture fluctuations.