Why Choose an Exposed Aggregate Concrete Driveway?
There are many materials you can use to build your driveway. There’s good old standard concrete, stone pavers, brick pavers, and more. But exposed aggregate concrete is one of the types of driveways our professional team of concreters on the Gold Coast recommends. Let’s find out why.
The Process
But to understand what exposed aggregate is and why it is fantastic as a driveway material, we must first know how it is made.
Making exposed aggregate concrete is pretty easy. All your contractor needs is some cement, sand, water, and of course, aggregate. When it comes to aggregates, you have a variety of choices. These include pebbles, crushed rocks, recycled crushed glass, shells, and sometimes, even coins.
The mixture is then poured onto the location with the steel reinforcement underneath. Once poured, the surface is smoothed out using a screed. The labourers will then give the concrete time to cure before a surface retarder is applied.
The aggregates underneath are then exposed using a pressure washer and scrubbed with a brush to get rid of the surface mortar. Finally, a light acid wash is applied to the exposed aggregate concrete driveway.
Exposed aggregate isn’t just for driveways. It can also be used to build patios, stairs, pathways, sidewalks, pool coping, and more. So, what makes it a favourite? Let’s find out.
The Pros of Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Durability
One of the main draws of exposed aggregate concrete is its durability, that’s why many property owners choose this for their driveways. It doesn’t crack easily even when exposed to rain and heat every day, and it can withstand a variety of vehicle weights. So, whether you have a basic sedan or a heavy pickup truck, it’s going to take many years before your driveway finally cracks.
Colourful and Stylish
You’ve had a standard concrete driveway for many years. And while it’s durable, the grey concrete is just plain boring. If you want your house to stand out because you’re planning to sell it sometime in the future or you simply want it to be unique, then exposed aggregate is the way to go.
According to our expert concreters on the Gold Coast, plain crushed gravel or boring grey pebbles are not your only choices. You can also mix colourful river stones, crushed recycled glass, as well as shells as aggregates. Some people even use shiny coins to make them stand out.
Non-Slip Surface
Exposed aggregate concrete has a unique and interesting texture, ensuring that it is safe for you and your kids. You can walk on the surface while it’s raining outside and not fear that you’re going to slip with one wrong step.
Easy to Clean
Another great feature of exposed aggregates is the fact that they are easy to clean and maintain. Simply use a broom to sweep off the dust, dried leaves, and other debris. Our team of concreters on the Gold Coast recommends that you do this every day to keep your driveway clean. You can also remove moss and oil stains by scrubbing them with a brush and water. Have it resealed every two years or when necessary.