A Complete Guide To Exposed Aggregate Concrete Driveway

Concrete Driveways

The exposed aggregate concrete driveway is a wonderful alternative to regular pathways and a wonderful option to invest upon if you are tired of normality. Concrete is an irreplaceable element, cost-effective and resilient to weather changes in stringent weather conditions. The exposed aggregate concrete driveway is refurbished models of previous concrete driveways when the top layer of the concrete is removed to have the inner layer exposed. The inner layer seldom accumulates particles of sand, stone chips and other such materials and provides a dense corrugated look. Aggregate concrete driveways are also called exposed aggregate concrete driveway because the inner layer of the concrete is now exposed.

The Budget of Getting An Aggregate Concrete Driveway

Exposed aggregate concrete driveway has a wide range of expenses depending on which option one would choose. Seeking help from professionals would generally be more expensive than other options. But it would be beneficial in the long run because of the effectiveness of the driveway that would be produced. The rate at which the driveway needs to be constructed ultimately determines its magnetism as an aggregate and therefore it is advised that professional help is asked for. Driveways with an uncommon shape will also be a more expensive affair than a normal one. This is because an odd shape requires more pieces of wood to construct. The type of materials that are used to expose the inner layer of concrete would also influence the price. Sand and deconstructed gravel is usually a cheap option but expensive aggregates employ stained glass and other attractive materials.

Concrete Garden

Advantages of Aggregate Concrete Driveway

Exposed aggregate concrete driveway has a huge upper hand over normal driveways because of the suppleness that they offer. Another benefit is the non-skid composition that the driveway offers. They are also very affordable and a veritably unique way to revamp a classic concrete pathway. Aggregate concrete driveways can last up to more than forty years which saves the user from the unnecessary need to keep checking up on the path every time it gets worn. A lot of options can also cast a very modish look on the driveway and make it look visually appealing.

Different Ways To Achieve The Aggregate Concrete Driveway

Washing And Brushing: this is the simplest method of exposing the concrete. After laying the foundation the upper layer is washed off with a jet of water and later boomed away to expose the underlying surface. This becomes cumbersome while trying to lay bigger driveways. The rate at which the exposition occurs is an important thing. No sooner than the surface is washed with should the work begin. Exposing it for long or dislocating the aggregate would not give desired results.

Surface Retarder: most professionals use a chemical substance to delay the time period which the concrete takes to set for which it could be started a day or two later. This method is good for larger pathways or those with an unusual shape that usually takes longer to complete. The delay for removing the paste of cement gives an additional time of a day or two during which the top layer could be washed off using water jets and optimum pressure.

Abrasive Blasting: the top layer could be artificially removed by blasting it with sand or shots. Although it could disrupt the overall appearance of the blast it gives a corrugated and rustic look

The exposed aggregate concrete driveway is a magnificent option to invest upon which takes less time and it gives a unique appearance to the usual concrete paths. However before starting it is important the one understands the different ways and advantages of the same before initiating the procedure.