A concrete finish in which the large aggregate – either typical washed gravel or more decorative crushed stone – is exposed by removal of the cement and fine aggregate from the surface of the concrete by brushing or pressure washing before the cement has set or by acid washing or light abrasive blasting after the concrete has cured.
According to ConcreteNetwork.com,
“An exposed aggregate finish is ideal for most flatwork including:
- Sidewalks
- Driveways
- Patios
- Pool decks
- Plaza
An exposed-aggregate finish is also possible on concrete walls or tilt-up panels. Vertical applications include:
- Decorative retaining walls
- Architectural building facades
- Sound barrier walls”
Sources:
- “Glossary,” Modern Homes Survey: New Canaan, Connecticut, National Trust for Historic Preservation, PDF.
- “What is Exposed Aggregate and Where is it Used?” ConcreteNetwork.com, http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/exposedaggregate/what_is_exposed_aggregate.html (accessed May 13, 2010).
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