The Pros and Cons of Exposed Aggregate
Whether you’re thinking about installing a patio, a pool deck, or a driveway, there are pros and cons to consider. If you’re trying to decide between a concrete slab, gravel, or exposed aggregate, read on to learn more about exposed Melbourne contractor.
Driveway
Whether you’re looking to install a new driveway or just want to change the look of your home’s exterior, exposed aggregate is an option worth considering. It’s durable, affordable and has a multitude of benefits over traditional concrete. However, there are a few downsides as well. Fortunately, the pros and cons of exposed aggregate for driveways can be mitigated when you follow a few simple steps.
First, you’ll want to use a powerful jet of water to remove any grime or dirt that has accumulated on your exposed aggregate surface. It’s a good idea to use a strong pressure hose and a wire brush for more thorough cleaning.
Next, you’ll want to seal your exposed aggregate surface to help increase its longevity and durability. This is especially important if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Also, you’ll want to reseal your exposed aggregate every two to three years. This will help prevent black mold and other potential stains from occurring.
Patio
Using exposed aggregate for your patio is a great way to increase the aesthetic appeal of your home. It offers a smooth, slip-resistant surface that is durable and affordable. It can also be used for walkways, paving, and even for landscaping.
There are plenty of advantages to using exposed aggregate for your patio, but there are also some disadvantages. One of the biggest is how difficult it is to find the right stones.
Another problem is that the finish does not always come out perfect. In addition, exposed aggregate is not as easy to clean as plain concrete. It requires frequent washing and re-sealing to increase its lifespan.
If you live in a particularly harsh climate, you may need to re-seal your exposed aggregate every couple of years. This helps to keep dirt and oil from forming on the surface.
You can also add a honed aggregate layer to your exposed aggregate to give it a more polished look. This is also a great way to quickly refresh your patio’s appearance.
Pool deck
Choosing the best pool deck material is important to the safety of the pool and the beauty of the pool deck. You must choose a material that will hold up to heavy traffic and be resistant to mildew, mold, and algae growth. The material also needs to be slip resistant.
Concrete is one of the most popular materials for pool decks. It can be poured in many shapes and colors. You can even choose to stencil your concrete pool deck to create a natural stone pattern.
Concrete is relatively inexpensive and can be installed quickly. However, there are some drawbacks to using it. If you live in a hot climate, concrete can become slippery when it is wet. It is also susceptible to erosion. The color of the concrete may also change with changes in the weather.
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you may need to seal your pool deck. Sealing can prevent normal erosion and protect it from cracks and expandable joints.
Cost
Depending on the size and the type of aggregate used, the cost of exposed aggregate can range from $45 to $180 per square meter. The cost can also vary depending on the contractor and the company that is providing the service.
The cost of exposed aggregate concrete can be two times the price of ordinary concrete. However, if you decide to DIY, you can save up to $1000 compared to hiring a contractor.
Exposed aggregate can be made to look like natural stones. You can create interesting patterns using different types of stone. However, you must consider the hardness of the stones you choose to use.
The price of exposed aggregate concrete can also vary depending on the type of filler you use. Some contractors use ready-made mixtures, which can increase the price. You can also use coloured glass as a filler.
In addition, the price of exposed aggregate concrete may also be affected by the size of the area you want to cover. If you want to make a larger driveway, you will have to pay more.