Can you resurface exposed aggregate concrete?

Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative finish where the top layer of concrete is removed to reveal the small aggregates beneath the surface. This means if you have an existing concrete surface that is structurally sound, we can resurface it to look like exposed concrete.

How do I restore exposed aggregate?

Oil & Grease Stains The best way to clean oil and grease stains from your exposed aggregate driveway is to apply a driveway cleaning solution that will break down the oil. Luckily, you can make this mixture using household products like dishwashing liquid or baking soda.

Does Exposed aggregate concrete need to be sealed?

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.

How do you clean and seal exposed aggregate concrete?

Pressure wash the dirt and grime off the surface, use rust remover to remove rust and a cleaner/degreaser to tackle tough oil spills. After cleaning the concrete, allow a day to dry. Once the concrete is dry, begin the sealing process. Using a ½-inch roller and a pump-up sprayer, start applying the sealer.

Can you stain Pebble concrete?

Concrete Finishes – Exposed Aggregate Concrete – Pebble Finished Concrete. Exposed aggregate can be stained or dyed to shift or change the color upon completion. Exposed aggregate is done by using a chemical retarder on the surface of the concrete during its placement.

How do you clean sealed aggregate?

Use a high pressure washer with hot water and a commercial-grade degreaser to eliminate oil stains. The hot water will help lift oil from the surface and the degreaser will emulsify the stain and allow it to wash off easily. Exposed aggregate cleaners can be applied on tire marks before rinsing it off with hot water.

Can you stain exposed aggregate?

Exposed aggregate can be stained or dyed to shift or change the color upon completion. Exposed aggregate is done by using a chemical retarder on the surface of the concrete during its placement. It is also a cost effective method of getting a decorative concrete finish.

Can you power wash aggregate concrete?

Although concrete is an extremely hard and durable material, it is very vulnerable to damage from erosion, freezing water, salts, and oils. Much of this damage can be avoided by simply pressure washing and weather-proofing in order to protect your concrete or aggregate driveway, patio or sidewalk.

Is concrete resurfacing a good idea?

Thanks to its durability, concrete resurfacing can last a long time. Considering it’s been properly installed, well cared for and the existing concrete base is strong. A properly resurfaced floor can last from 10-20+ years. If you pour a resurfacing coat on damaged concrete, then it won’t last long.

Is exposed aggregate concrete more durable?

Exposed aggregate concrete is just as durable, if not more durable, than a traditional finish. Finally, this type of finish is very versatile. It is possible to create a wide variety of styles with exposed aggregate.

What are the pros and cons of an exposed aggregate driveway?

There are both pros and cons of using exposed aggregate concrete. The advantages include: Get gorgeous decorative effects at an affordable cost as very few additional materials are needed. You may will only need some decorative aggregates, surface retardant, sprayer and a garden hose. So, exposed aggregate concrete is not expensive.

Is concrete sealer toxic?

The toxicity of a concrete sealer will depend on its chemical components. Generally speaking solvent based concrete sealers are going to be more toxic than water based concrete sealers. By viewing the SDS (Safety Data Sheet) you can view the hazardous statements and the precautionary statements associated with the product.

How is concrete sealer applied?

Strip any existing sealer from the surface. Open up the concrete with an etching solution. Apply a thin coat of sealer using a roller or sprayer. Wait for the first layer of sealer to dry. Apply a second coat in the opposite direction. Allow the sealer to fully dry before walking or driving on your concrete.