Exposed aggregate concrete has been used in walls and floors all over the world, and this method has been around for a long time already. This form of decorative concrete is done by taking out the uppermost layer of cement paste in order to expose or reveal the aggregate below the topmost aggregate.

With advances in technology applied to construction materials, the decorative aggregate now available in the market has become filled with added features, likes added durability and resistance to skidding that makes it ideal for outdoor flooring like driveways, sidewalks, decks of pools and even and patios.

Exposed decorative aggregate treatment for floors has become consistently popular among building owners and construction experts because of its certain advantages.For example, the effects of the decorative aggregate bring look very natural and pleasant but at a very affordable cost. There are only a few materials needed to achieve this look, including aggregate, a sprayer, a surface retardant and a hose, that’s all. Moreover, the procedure for applying the aggregate is pretty easy and straightforward, making for the entire project to be done quickly.                          

Moreover, there are so many types of aggregates available for consideration, with various colors, shapes and sizes, the choice of which can rest entirely on the aesthetic sensibilities of the building owner or construction professional. Aggregate floors also complement with other surfaces like decorative concrete or stucco, so there is really no aesthetic clash that may happen.

Lastly, what is a great relief for people who will need to do property maintenance is that this surface does not need major procedures for its upkeep, except for water hosing once in a while and resealing every three or so years.Traditionally, exposed aggregate concrete has not really been recommended to be done as a do-it-yourself project, not because of the difficulty of the task itself.

However, aggregate application is usually considered for very wide floors, which can be overwhelming for DIY people. Thus, it is recommended for people to employ companies like Decorete to make the project as smooth sailing and effortless as possible with the best results. With its leadership position in the Middle East and North Africa, Decorete has also ventured into achieving the same level of customer satisfaction to other areas all over the world.As with any project involving concrete, the steel forms have to be set first in the surface where the floor will be installed. The concrete can then be poured in the area, and a wooden trowel or bull float may be used to ascertain the entire area is leveled out. At this time, the aggregate may be scattered or placed throughout the entire area.

Then, a retarder should be applied to the concrete’s surface to slow the hardening process of the concrete on the surface, while allowing the concrete in the inner portions to cure completely.The surface of the cement should first be washed once the concrete is firm enough that it can be walked upon without the base moving. This washing should be done only to get rid of the cement paste or retarder. Once this is done, the exposed aggregate slab should be sealed with a concrete sealer and a curing compound