Learning how to install exposed aggregate driveways helps you understand why this decorative concrete style is both durable and eye-catching. With its textured finish and natural stone look, exposed aggregate combines strength with design versatility, making it one of the most popular choices for modern driveways.
Why Installing Exposed Aggregate Driveways Is a Great Choice
Exposed aggregate is more than just attractive—it’s also slip-resistant, long-lasting, and highly customisable. The natural stones create visual depth and colour variation, while the concrete base ensures durability under vehicle loads. With proper installation, an exposed aggregate driveway can last decades with minimal maintenance.
Steps to Install Exposed Aggregate Driveways
1. Pour and Spread Concrete
A specially designed mix with decorative stones (aggregates) is poured into the prepared driveway area. Just like plain concrete, it must be spread evenly and levelled to the correct thickness. Careful placement is essential to avoid uneven stone distribution.
2. Expose the Aggregate
After the concrete begins to set but before it fully hardens, the top layer of cement paste is carefully removed. This is done by washing back with water and a stiff broom, or using a surface retarder to slow curing. This process reveals the decorative stones beneath, creating the exposed aggregate finish.
3. Finish and Seal
Once the aggregate is exposed, the surface is smoothed, cleaned, and left to cure. After curing, a high-quality sealer is applied to enhance the colour contrast of the stones and protect against stains, weather, and wear. Sealing also gives the driveway a richer, premium appearance.
Pro Tip: For a high-end look, choose dark decorative stones within a lighter concrete base. This contrast creates a striking, modern finish that pairs beautifully with contemporary home designs.