Exposed Aggregate Concrete In Shepparton

Exposed aggregate is one of the less slippery concrete finishes, because the exposed stone gives the surface texture and grip. That makes it a popular choice around Shepparton pools and on driveways that get wet through our cool, damp winters. No external surface is completely non-slip when wet, but the texture helps. A sealer can be chosen to keep grip rather than leave the surface glossy.

The finish itself is very hard-wearing, but like any concrete its long-term performance depends on what sits underneath. On reactive Goulburn Valley clay we compact the base, reinforce the slab and cut control joints so any seasonal movement is guided to the joints rather than cracking the surface at random. We cannot promise concrete will never crack, but good preparation is what keeps a decorative finish looking its best. Keeping water away from the edges with proper falls and drainage helps too.

It is one of the lower-maintenance finishes, which is a big part of its appeal. An occasional hose or pressure wash keeps it clean, and resealing every few years keeps the colour rich and helps it resist stains and oil. On our damp ground a sealer also slows how much moisture the surface takes in. We will explain the sealing schedule for your job when we hand it over.

Yes, and it is one of the reasons the finish is so popular. There is a wide range of stone colours and sizes, and the surrounding concrete can be tinted, so we can work towards a tone that suits your brick, render or roof. We will show you sample boards and, where we can, completed local jobs so you can judge the look in daylight. Choosing on a sample rather than a brochure gives you the truest idea of the result.

Exposed aggregate is usually poured as a new surface rather than laid over old concrete, because the aggregate needs to be part of the pour. If you have existing concrete you want to refresh, a decorative resurfacing overlay may be a better route, and we can talk you through the options. The right choice depends on the condition of what is already there. We will look at it when we quote and give you an honest recommendation.

It does, because the wash that reveals the aggregate has to happen in a set window, and temperature affects how quickly the concrete sets. In hot Shepparton summer weather the surface can set faster, so we time the pour and the wash carefully and protect and cure the finish to avoid plastic-shrinkage cracking. In winter we avoid pouring and finishing through frost, which can damage a fresh surface. Planning the pour around the weather is part of getting a clean, even reveal.