Exposed Aggregate Services
Exposed aggregate concrete reveals the natural beauty of stones, pebbles, and decorative aggregates within the concrete mix. This unique finish provides exceptional durability, slip resistance, and visual appeal that stands out from standard concrete surfaces.
At Concord Concrete, we combine years of industry experience with premium materials and cutting-edge techniques to deliver exposed aggregate solutions that exceed expectations. Whether you're planning a new installation, renovation, or repair project, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.
Why Choose Exposed Aggregate?
Exposed Aggregate offers numerous advantages for your property:
- Unique, natural appearance with visible stones and pebbles
- Excellent slip resistance for pool decks and walkways
- Durable and long-lasting surface
- Low maintenance requirements
- Can be customized with various aggregate types and colors
- Hides stains and wear better than smooth concrete
- Provides texture and visual interest
- Suitable for driveways, patios, pool decks, and walkways
Our Concrete Driveway Options
Standard Exposed Aggregate
Our standard concrete driveways feature a smooth, professional finish that provides excellent durability and functionality. Perfect for homeowners seeking a clean, classic look that complements any architectural style. We use high-strength concrete mix (minimum 3,500 PSI) with proper reinforcement to ensure structural integrity.
Stamped Exposed Aggregate
Transform your driveway into a work of art with our stamped concrete options. We offer dozens of patterns including brick, stone, slate, wood plank, and custom designs. Stamped concrete provides the aesthetic appeal of expensive materials at a fraction of the cost, while maintaining concrete's superior durability.
Colored Exposed Aggregate
Add personality to your property with colored concrete driveways. We use integral color systems that penetrate throughout the concrete, ensuring the color won't fade or wear away. Choose from earth tones, grays, browns, or custom colors to match your home's exterior.
Exposed Aggregate Driveways
For a unique, textured appearance, exposed aggregate driveways reveal the natural beauty of stones and pebbles in the concrete mix. This finish provides excellent slip resistance and a distinctive look that sets your property apart.
Decorative Borders and Accents
Enhance your driveway with decorative borders, medallions, or accent strips. These design elements add visual interest and can be used to define parking areas or create elegant entryways.
Our Comprehensive Installation Process
We follow a meticulous, step-by-step process to ensure your concrete driveway installation exceeds expectations:
- Initial Consultation & Site Assessment: We visit your property to assess soil conditions, drainage, slope, and existing structures. We discuss your needs, preferences, and budget to create a customized plan.
- Design & Planning: Our team creates detailed plans including dimensions, thickness specifications (typically 4-6 inches), reinforcement requirements, and finish options. We obtain necessary permits and ensure compliance with local building codes.
- Site Preparation: We excavate to the proper depth (typically 6-8 inches), remove existing materials, and grade the area to ensure proper drainage away from your home. We install a compacted base layer of gravel (4-6 inches) for stability.
- Formwork Installation: We set up precise forms to define the driveway's edges and ensure straight, clean lines. Forms are carefully leveled and braced to prevent shifting during pouring.
- Reinforcement: We install steel rebar or wire mesh reinforcement to prevent cracking and increase load-bearing capacity. This is especially important for driveways that will support heavy vehicles.
- Concrete Pouring: We pour high-quality concrete mix (3,500-4,000 PSI) using professional equipment. Our team works efficiently to ensure the concrete is placed before it begins to set.
- Finishing: We screed, float, and trowel the surface to achieve the desired finish. For decorative options, we apply stamps, colors, or textures at this stage.
- Curing: We apply curing compounds and cover the driveway to ensure proper hydration. Curing typically takes 7-14 days, during which we monitor the surface.
- Sealing: After curing, we apply a high-quality sealer to protect against stains, moisture, and UV damage. Sealing extends your driveway's lifespan and maintains its appearance.
- Final Inspection: We conduct a thorough quality check to ensure the driveway meets our high standards and your expectations.
Specifications & Requirements
Proper specifications ensure optimal performance and longevity:
- Aggregate size: Typically 3/8 to 3/4 inch stones
- Exposure depth: 1/3 to 1/2 of aggregate size
- Sealing: Required every 2-3 years for protection
- Texture: Natural texture provides excellent traction
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning with pressure washer
- Durability: Extremely durable and resistant to wear
Driveway Repair & Resurfacing Services
If your existing concrete driveway is showing signs of wear, we offer comprehensive repair services:
- Crack Repair: We fill and seal cracks to prevent water infiltration and further deterioration
- Pothole Patching: Professional patching that matches your existing driveway
- Resurfacing: Apply a new layer of concrete over existing driveways to restore appearance and functionality
- Leveling: Correct sunken or uneven sections using mudjacking or polyurethane foam injection
- Sealant Application: Reapply protective sealants to extend your driveway's life
Maintenance Tips for Your Concrete Driveway
To maximize your driveway's lifespan, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Clean regularly with a pressure washer to remove dirt, debris, and stains
- Seal every 2-3 years to protect against moisture and UV damage
- Remove oil stains promptly using appropriate cleaners
- Avoid using de-icing salts, which can damage concrete surfaces
- Keep expansion joints clear of debris to allow for thermal movement
- Address minor cracks immediately to prevent them from expanding
Cost Considerations
Concrete driveway costs vary based on several factors:
- Size: Larger driveways cost more but offer better value per square foot
- Thickness: Thicker driveways require more material and labor
- Finish Type: Standard concrete is most economical; decorative options add 20-50% to costs
- Site Conditions: Sloped or difficult-to-access sites may require additional preparation
- Removal of Existing: Old driveway removal adds to project costs
We provide detailed, transparent quotes with no hidden fees. Contact us for a free estimate tailored to your specific project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is exposed aggregate slippery?
No, the exposed stones provide excellent traction, making it ideal for pool decks and walkways where slip resistance is important.
How do you create exposed aggregate?
After pouring, we remove the top layer of cement paste to reveal the aggregates beneath, creating the textured finish.
Can exposed aggregate be colored?
Yes, we can use colored aggregates or add color to the concrete mix to achieve various aesthetic effects.
How long does exposed aggregate last?
With proper installation and maintenance, exposed aggregate can last 30-40 years or more.
What maintenance is required?
Regular cleaning and resealing every 2-3 years will keep your exposed aggregate looking beautiful and performing well.
Ready to Transform Your Driveway?
Contact Concord Concrete today for a free, no-obligation estimate on your exposed aggregate project. We serve Concord, Kannapolis, China Grove, Huntersville, Mooresville, and Harrisburg.
Call (980) 300-6806
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