Exposed aggregate concrete in Vancouver, WA
Exposed aggregate shows off the small stones mixed into the concrete. It grips well in the rain, hides dirt and tire marks and holds up to Pacific Northwest weather, which is why you see it on so many driveways around Clark County.
How the stones get exposed
After the concrete is placed and leveled, the crew waits for it to start setting. Then the thin layer of cement on top is washed and brushed away with water, which uncovers the rounded stones underneath. The timing is everything. Wash too early and stones come loose. Wash too late and they stay buried. You can watch our crew doing it in the video on this page.
Where exposed aggregate works best
It’s a great choice for driveways, patios, walkways and pool areas. The rough surface gives tires and shoes grip on wet days, and the mix of stone colors hides dirt, leaves and oil spots better than a plain gray slab. It pairs well with smooth broom finish borders or bands.
Sealing
A sealer brings out the color of the stones and helps keep moss and stains from sinking in. Most exposed aggregate in our area is resealed every 2 to 3 years.
The stones and the price
The look comes from the stone in the mix. Most exposed aggregate around here uses rounded river rock in grays, tans and browns, which is what you see in our photos. Concrete suppliers also carry mixes with different stone sizes and colors, so ask about them at the estimate if you want something specific.
HomeAdvisor lists $8 to $12 per square foot for exposed aggregate, the same range it gives for a broom finish, and less than stamped concrete. It’s one of the best values if you want something more than plain gray.
Recent exposed aggregate work
Questions about exposed aggregate
Is exposed aggregate more expensive than regular concrete?
It usually costs about the same as a broom finish or a little more, because of the extra work to expose the stones, and less than stamped concrete.
Is exposed aggregate good for a driveway?
Yes. It’s one of the most popular driveway finishes in the Pacific Northwest because it grips well in the rain and hides tire marks.
Is exposed aggregate comfortable to walk on barefoot?
The stones are rounded, so it’s fine to walk on, but it’s rougher than a smooth or broom finish. Some people use a broom finish around a pool and exposed aggregate for the rest.
How do I clean exposed aggregate?
A hose or a pressure washer on a low setting is usually all it needs. Keeping it sealed makes moss and stains easier to wash off.
Should I pick exposed aggregate or stamped concrete?
Stamped concrete gives you the look of stone, slate or brick with more pattern and color choices. Exposed aggregate shows real stone, grips better in the rain and usually costs less. Many people use aggregate for the driveway and stamped for the patio.
Will the stones come loose?
A few loose stones on the surface in the first weeks is normal. When the top layer is washed off at the right time, the rest stay locked in the concrete, and a sealer helps hold them.
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