How to Do Concrete Exposed Aggregate Work

Home exteriors are playing a crucial role in the beautification of the house and you have more than one way to accomplish this. Once you place the concrete, the decorate aggregate is then ready to be exposed. Depending on the looks desired and the project size and budget, the contractor can select the approach of concrete exposed aggregate. In this procedure, only the top of stones remains visible and the remaining part is embedded permanently in the concrete. However, there is only one rule of thumb that needs to be followed in the concrete exposed aggregate, and that is to remove surface mortar to the depth of not more than one-third of the diameter of aggregate particle used for the project.

Washing and Brushing

Concrete exposed

This process does not require any chemical retarders or special tools and so it is one of the oldest and simplest methods that are still in use. All that you need to do is to wash away the thin layer of the surface mortar that is covering the aggregate. Spray the water and keep scrubbing with a broom until the aggregate is exposed to the desired level. This approach is often recommended for small jobs of concrete exposed aggregate because here the timing is most important. This work should begin as soon as surface mortar is successfully removed and without dislodging or overexposing the aggregate. It is important to first carry out the test by lightly brushing away the surface mortar in the small area with a stiff nylon-bristle broom.

 Surface Retarder Use

Exposed Agg Front

Most of the contractors these days want efficient and fast results. So, these professionals also use surface retarder a chemical that they spray on the slab immediately after placing and finishing. This delay setting of aggregate and gives them the flexibility to remove the cement by pressure washing or scrubbing, and this can be done a day or so later. This flexibility is really important during summers or when handling a large job. There is a wide range of products that contractors can choose depending on the effects that they want to achieve. So, you need to carry out good research on what chemical will be effective for your concrete exposed aggregate and choose the one accordingly.

Abrasive Blasting is Also Another Approach

After the concrete is set, it is possible to expose the surface as well. Abrasive blasting is one of the effective techniques used in this regard and it is either shot blasting or sandblasting used in that regard. However, one disadvantage of this approach in concrete exposed aggregate is that it can dull the appearance and fracture the aggregate as well. If you want to preserve the shape and shade of the aggregate then this approach is not recommended. However, there are certain situations in construction where this approach is used for sure.

So, the next time you have a concrete exposed aggregate project, make sure to go for the approach that you feel will be effective in your circumstances. You can carry out good research on the available options in your area, the extent of your project, the expertise of the contractor, and the final cost before making this decision. Once you make a decision on the approach for exposed aggregate, it will be difficult to make changes. To ensure that you have a clear understanding of what you want and only make a practical and wise decision in this regard. As you start the process of hiring concrete exposed aggregate contractors, compare their experience, the price quoted and also the approach is taken for concrete exposed aggregate. If you consider the above-mentioned points, you will end up with a good aggregate surface that attracts a lot of attention and adds beauty to your outdoors.