Can you put exposed aggregate over existing concrete?

Concrete that is exposed aggregate is a decorative finish where the top layer of concrete is removed to reveal colorful aggregate beneath it. So if you have an existing concrete structure that is structurally sound, you can use exposed aggregate concrete to resurface it to look just like exposed concrete.

Is Exposed aggregate outdated?





Exposed aggregate around a pool is only expected to last about 20-30 years before it needs to be refinished or repaired.

How do you fix over exposed aggregate concrete?

Spread the epoxy paste over the damaged area, filling any holes in the surface of the concrete with a putty knife. Cover the surface to the same level as the surrounding concrete aggregate, then smooth with the putty knife.

Is Exposed aggregate more expensive than regular concrete?

Standard concrete paving also tends to be more affordable than exposed aggregate paving, costing only about $7-9 per square foot.

What is the best way to resurface concrete?

How to Resurface Worn Concrete

  1. Step 1: Clean the Concrete. For surface preparation, wear heavy boots and protective glasses and blast off surface dirt with a gas-powered pressure washer that can reach at least 3,500 psi. …
  2. Step 2: Patch Spalled Areas. …
  3. Step 3: Spread the Resurfacer. …
  4. Step 4: Trowel Out the Resurfacer.




Is Exposed aggregate hard to walk?

Exposed aggregate is extremely attractive with unique designs. It is popular in residential properties but also in spaces that receive a continuous influx of people. It is non-slippery, making it safe for those walking around, whether young or old.

Is Exposed aggregate cheaper than stamped concrete?

Stamped concrete or exposed aggregate is a question I get from a lot of customers. Each is a good choice of course. Cost is always a concern. I can say this, if your project has any size to it, the exposed will be less expensive.

Can you install tile over exposed aggregate concrete?

You can install the tile directly on the concrete. You can install a CBU or cement board on the concrete, then the tile on top of that. Finally, you can use an uncoupling membrane between the tile and the concrete.

Should I seal exposed aggregate?



Does exposed aggregate need to be sealed? Yes. These sealers—typically film-forming acrylic resins—can help protect against spalling, dusting, efflorescence, freeze-thaw damage, stains, deicing salts, and abrasion. A sealer will also enhance the color of the aggregate, accentuating its depth and richness.

Is Exposed aggregate concrete worth it?

Exposed aggregate is mostly recommended for families. Because it is slip resistant, you can use it as the surface for your pool deck, patio, and sidewalk. It is also a great choice for those who plan to improve the look of their driveway because of its resilience to heavy items.

Why is exposed aggregate so expensive?

Exposed aggregate concrete costs as much as double what you’d pay for normal class concrete. This is because there is an additional material cost for the aggregate used and more labour involved in creating the finish.

What is the difference between aggregate and concrete?



As nouns the difference between aggregate and concrete

is that aggregate is a mass, assemblage, or sum of particulars; something consisting of elements but considered as a whole while concrete is a building material created by mixing portland cement, water, and aggregate including gravel and sand.

Does concrete or cement pour?

Although the terms cement and concrete are often used interchangeably, cement is actually an ingredient of concrete. Concrete is basically a mixture of aggregates and paste. The aggregates are sand and gravel or crushed stone; the paste is water and portland cement. Concrete gets stronger as it gets older.

Which is harder concrete or cement?

Let’s start with the basics: concrete is significantly stronger than cement. Cement is a durable material in its own right, but it simply does not compare to concrete. That’s why cement is usually used for smaller, more decorative projects.

Is aggregate considered concrete?



Concrete aggregates are composed of geological materials such as gravel, sand and crushed rock. The size of the particles determines whether it is a coarse aggregate (e.g. gravel) or a fine aggregate (e.g. sand). The resulting concrete can be used in its natural state or crushed, according to its use and application.

Does aggregate size effect concrete strength?

Aggregate size, shape and properties directly influence the workability, strength, durability and absorption rate of your ready-mix concrete. The largest concrete aggregate pieces in the mix can range from small, smooth bits to large, jagged chunks.

What size aggregate is best for concrete?

In the majority of concrete works, aggregate sizes of 20 mm or smaller are used. To ensure good coarse aggregate compaction and higher concrete density, it is recommended to mix 20 mm and 10 mm coarse aggregates in the ratio of 70:30 or 60:40.

Is concrete stronger with aggregate?

The compressive aggregate strength is an important factor in the selection of aggregate. When determining the strength of normal concrete, most concrete aggregates are several times stronger than the other components in concrete and therefore not a factor in the strength of normal strength concrete.

Do I need to add aggregate to concrete?



Aggregate is also very important for strength, thermal and elastic properties of concrete, dimensional stability and volume stability. Cement is more likely to be affected by shrinkage. Including aggregate in the mix can control the shrinkage level and prevent cracking.

What aggregates should be avoided when making concrete?

Aggregates to avoid include:

  • Those that are friable or susceptible to being split.
  • Those with significant quantities of soft and porous materials.
  • Certain kinds of “chert,” since they may have very low resistance to weathering and can lead to surface defects, called popouts (Photos 2 and 3).