Contractors have highly valued concrete for a long time because it is so strong and lasts a long time. However, homeowners who want to make their property look nicer don’t like how standard grey concrete looks the same everywhere. Now, concrete comes in many different decorative styles, giving homeowners a lot of freedom regarding how it looks.
One type of decorative concrete that is becoming increasingly popular is exposed aggregate concrete.
However, many homeowners still do not know what it is about exposed aggregate concrete that has made it so popular. This article looks more closely at four critical reasons why exposed aggregate concrete driveways are essential.
Versatile Aesthetic Options
Exposed aggregate is different from regular concrete in two main ways. First, you can see that the top layer of aggregate sticks out from the top of the pavement. Second, homeowners can choose from a wide range of decorative aggregates instead of the dull gray gravel used in regular concrete.
Exposed aggregate concrete driveways come in a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, so you can make a concrete surface that is unique to you. The cement that holds the aggregates together can also be colored to add to the look. In addition, you do not just have to choose from stone aggregates. Many people choose to add polished pieces of glass, which makes the concrete shine differently.
Improved Traction
Most of the time, installing exposed aggregate concrete driveways is not much different from regular concrete. However, once part of the surface has set, workers use water and nylon-bristled brushes to remove some of the cement from the surface. Because of this, the gravel on top of the slab sticks out.
Therefore, exposed aggregate concrete has a rough texture that gives it more grip, even when wet, than regular concrete. Contractors can improve the grip even more by changing the aggregate particles’ size, shape, and surface texture. For example, rough stones tend to have more grasp than smooth ones.
Decreased Susceptibility to Spalling
Spalling is one of the most common problems with regular concrete. In the winter, spalling is common because porous concrete soaks up water and dissolved de-icing salts. As the temperature drops, this salty mixture gets bigger, putting a lot of stress on itself.
This stress weakens the top layer of concrete, and even normal pressures can cause the cement paste to crack, crumble, or break away. Because of this, the surface of the concrete looks rough and full of holes. This not only makes the concrete look worse but also speeds up the rate of further wear.
Since workers have already removed the top layer of cement paste when installing exposed aggregate concrete driveways, spalling is less likely. The best way to ensure an exposed aggregate surface lasts as long as possible is to seal it about every two years.
Improved Home Value
Surfaces with exposed aggregate concrete look and work better and increase your home’s value over time. In particular, exposed aggregate concrete driveways can add a level of curb appeal that can make people want to buy the house. Most potential buyers thought homes with exposed aggregate driveways were more modern and attractive.
If you decide to do an exposed aggregate project on your driveway or sidewalk, make sure you hire a trustworthy concreters in aspendale to do the job. Do not choose the first contractor you find because there is a chance they won’t live up to your expectations. Make sure you do a lot of research on the contractor before hiring them to get the results you want.
