Exposed aggregate concrete used on a house driveway.

Exposed Aggregate Concrete

Stylish, slip-resistant and durable concrete.

What is exposed aggregate concrete?

Exposed aggregate concrete is a versatile and stunning form of concrete to create an outstanding appearance and finish to any property. The aggregate refers to the stones and/or sands used within the concrete mix which is exposed upon completion, these aggregates are shown near the surface which are revealed using a retarder and usually a pressure cleaner. This is done by removing a thin layer of cement from the top surface. Exposed aggregate is the end result created through this process resulting in the stone being fully exposed which highlights the natural elements of the stone that are casted within the mix of the concrete at the concrete plant.
Exposed aggregate concrete driveway
Exposed aggregate concrete steps

Benefits of exposed aggregate concrete

Exposed aggregate concrete has good grip (and thus is slip-resistant) because the exposed stones give a more porous finish. It also creates a stylish, textured, hardwearing, and durable surface. Therefore it is commonly used for:

  • Driveways and footpaths within residential areas
  • Perimeter paths and garden paths
  • Pool surrounds
  • Alfresco’s
  • Outdoor entertainment areas.
Exposed aggregate concrete underneath a water tap

Concrete mix options

There are different exposed aggregate options to choose from because many different concreting suppliers offer their own versions of versatile mixes. Once the exposed aggregate mix is poured on the site, a surface retardant is sprayed to the surface of the concrete. This is removed after the concrete has sat and cured, using a pressure cleaner the exposed aggregate concrete reveals near the surface resulting in a natural aggregate finish using the clients chosen mix.

Pricing

  • Ask us for a free quote via email or in-person Typically our clients will send us their site plans and master plans via email if the job is for a new build. However if you don't have one, feel free to discuss your needs with us.
  • We create a quote for you Our pricing is calculated from a variety of ways including location of job, access we have whether that includes a concrete pump or if wheelbarrows are required in order to place the concrete where the job is required.
  • Receive our quote If you send us your site plans and master plans, we can typically come back to you with a quote within 1-3 days without you having to step foot onsite.
  • Agreement and onsite visit Once you as the customer is happy with the quote, an onsite visit will be scheduled in to confirm the measurements and soil amounts needed to be removed for your new driveway and path construction.
  • Start and pay throughout We work off of deposit and progress payments to ensure our company and the client are both safe.

The Luciano difference

Relationship-oriented

We seek to understand exactly what you are after before beginning construction by working 1 on 1 with our clients to create a solution, based off of photos and options.

Australian-made and Australian quality

We truly believe in quality Australian products to ensure results beyond our clients expectations and ensuring lasting exposed aggregate concrete for years to come.

Licensed concreting contractor

Our licensed contractors put your mind at ease with the insurance and knowledge being licensed by Consumer and Business Services Australia.

Reviews

Luciano Concrete staff working on the side of their truck.

Frequently asked questions

Below are some of our more frequently asked questions regarding exposed aggregate concrete. If you still have more questions, don't hesitate to call us or use our contact form.

  • What exposed aggregate options are there?
    South Australia has many different concrete suppliers that offer all types of different mixes, we always recommend our preferred supplier.
  • How can I see the different exposed aggregate options?
    Our preferred suppliers offer their different options online via there website which we send to you in order to pick a mix.
  • Can I see the mixes in person?
    Yes our concrete suppliers have an in person showroom to accommodate viewing the variety of mixes.
  • How can I see your prior work?
    If requested we always give our clients a handful of jobs completed within the area for our clients to visit so they can make a selection based off our own work completed.
  • How does the exposed aggregate process work?
    Once the exposed aggregate concrete is poured we then float and trowel out any imperfections and spray on a concrete surface retarder to create the exposed aggregate finish, once a period of time has passed the top surface retardant is then washed off using a pressure cleaner to create the exposed aggregate finish.
  • Will my exposed aggregate be saw cut?
    All exposed aggregate jobs poured by our team are all saw cuts to create a durable and aesthetic finish.
  • What are saw cuts?
    Saw cuts act as control joints to prevent concrete cracking further than what it should.
  • Will my driveway be sealed?
    All driveways are sealed with a Dulux Exposed aggregate finish sealer to enhance the durability and looks.

Contact us

For any exposed aggregate concrete services, please feel free to contact us directly or with the following form. We offer free quotes via email or in person to all clients that enquire.

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