Concrete offers much more variety than many people initially think. Concrete can be stamped, colors, and overlaid to create a wide variety of looks. Concrete can take on just about any look you’d like, even looking more sophisticated than natural stone.
Typically, many of these decorative concrete options involve applying color or a pattern to the surface of the concrete. The exposed aggregate method involves revealing what is already in the concrete. The aggregate is material that helps stabilize and bind the concrete, and it can include bits of stone, pebbles, and more. Exposing the aggregate involves removing the surface layer of concrete, leaving behind a beautiful and unique surface. The aggregate can also be added in a thin layer after the concrete has been poured and shaped.
There are many ways that you can use the color of exposed aggregate to create a beautiful look for your driveway, patio, walkways, and more. Here are a few ideas:
Complementing or Contrasting Colors
You can create a stunning look by simply placing colors next to each other that either complement or contrast in the right ways. For example, if you have a dark gray stone retaining wall next to your patio, you can choose a lighter gray exposed aggregate to complement the tones while also creating a distinction. Or you could choose an earth tone that would contrast in an interesting way.For a driveway, you could have bands of stone that section the driveway, and you could choose a color for the exposed aggregate that would complement or contrast that.
Create a Design in the Concrete
Most concrete is laid in one solid slab. However, you have more options to get an interesting pattern in the design. The slab – driveway, patio, walkway – can be sectioned off in interesting ways, and different colors of exposed aggregate can be used in each. You may need to lay the concrete in stages, or you may be able to frame off the sections, depending on what kind of look you want to achieve. Our designers will help you understand what process is needed to achieve your vision.
Match Aggregate Color with Qualities
Many colors for aggregate or concrete can be achieved by simply applying a concrete dye. However, if you are relying on natural materials and don’t want to add that extra step, you will need to think carefully about what materials offer what colors. Some aggregates may offer the color you want, but they may have other challenging properties, such as being too soft for the application or being too large or small for what you need. Our designers will help you understand these considerations when creating your design.
Get a Beautiful Hardscape with the Experts at Triad Associates
Triad Associates has been creating beautiful hardscapes with concrete and other materials for decades. Call us today to get a free consultation and start designing your driveway, patio, or other area of your hardscape. We’ll help you explore the options with exposed aggregate colors and other materials to get the perfect look.
