Different Materials You Could Consider For Exposed Aggregate
Concrete remains the most popular material used for exterior flooring in both residential and commercial applications due to the high durability that it offers. However, since plain concrete tends to be bland and typically will only come in grey, some people may want to steer clear of it if they are looking to improve the aesthetic appeal of their premises. Luckily, you can reap the benefits of the inherent strength of concrete while still adding visual interest to your flooring by opting for exposed aggregate. This type of concrete flooring is not only attractive, but it is also highly functional by offering slip resistance and requiring minimal maintenance to stay in pristine condition. Below are some of the different materials that you could consider for exposed aggregate.
Granite
Exposed aggregate concrete will have crushed rock integrated to the surface of the concrete. Granite is one of the more common materials that you will come across, as it is quarried from hardened magma. The inherent strength of the granite makes it great for heavy-duty concrete applications, so this type of aggregate would be ideal for high-traffic areas such as a car park, driveway and more.
When most people think of granite, they assume it is only available in black. In reality, granite is available in a host of other colours such as pinks, greys and reds, depending on the chemical composition of the rock. Once the exposed aggregate has dried, the contractors can polish the surfaces of the granite to give it an enhanced sheen and boost its aesthetic appeal.
Gravel
This type of aggregate is acquired from natural stones that have been crushed. Gravel tends to be a more affordable alternative as compared to granite, making it a worthwhile option for people who may be looking for economical flooring. It should be noted that gravel is not as strong as granite is and thus may not fare well under heavy-duty applications. Exposed aggregate made from gravel would be better suited for residential applications such as on walkways or by the swimming pool, where it will not be exposed to as much foot traffic as on a commercial property.
There are two main types of gravel aggregate that you could choose to incorporate into your concrete. The first is scabbled stone, which originates from any regular stone. The second is pebbles, which are sourced from riverbeds and seabeds. To enhance the appearance of the gravel, you could have your aggregate painted before it is incorporated into the concrete.
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