Quality Exposed Aggregate Concrete in Pierce County
Reveal the natural beauty of stone with exposed aggregate concrete. Mitchell Concrete LLC creates stunning, slip-resistant surfaces for driveways, patios, and pool decks throughout Tacoma, Puyallup, and Pierce County with over 16 years of expertise.
What is Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative finish that reveals the natural beauty of stones embedded within the concrete. After the concrete is poured and begins to set, we remove the top layer of cement paste to expose the aggregate (stones, pebbles, or glass) beneath, creating a textured, slip-resistant surface with natural visual appeal.
Unlike stamped concrete that mimics stone, exposed aggregate features real stone embedded in the surface. This creates an authentic, natural appearance that complements any architectural style while providing superior durability and traction. The exposed stones are locked into the concrete matrix, making them extremely resistant to wear and weathering.
Exposed aggregate has been a popular choice for decades because it combines beauty, functionality, and longevity. It's particularly well-suited to the Pacific Northwest climate, where slip resistance and freeze-thaw durability are essential. The natural texture also helps hide dirt, stains, and minor imperfections, keeping your surfaces looking great with minimal maintenance.
Benefits of Exposed Aggregate
Aggregate Stone Options
Choose from a wide variety of natural and decorative aggregates to create the perfect look for your project.
River Rock
Smooth, rounded stones in earth tones create a natural, organic look. Popular for residential driveways, patios, and pool decks.
Crushed Granite
Angular granite pieces in grays, blacks, and whites provide a modern, sophisticated appearance. Ideal for contemporary homes and commercial spaces.
Pea Gravel
Small, smooth stones create a fine-textured surface with excellent traction. Perfect for walkways and areas requiring maximum slip resistance.
Quartz
Sparkling quartz aggregates add shimmer and visual interest. Available in various colors to match your design vision.
Colored Glass
Recycled glass aggregates in vibrant colors create a unique, eco-friendly finish. Stunning for pool decks and modern outdoor spaces.
Custom Blends
Mix multiple aggregate types and colors to create a completely custom look that matches your home and landscape perfectly.
Ideal Applications for Exposed Aggregate
Driveways
Durable, slip-resistant driveways that handle heavy vehicles while maintaining curb appeal. Natural texture hides tire marks and oil stains.
Pool Decks
Cool-to-the-touch, slip-resistant surface perfect for wet areas. Withstands pool chemicals and constant moisture exposure.
Patios
Create beautiful outdoor living spaces with natural stone texture. Comfortable barefoot surface that stays cooler than smooth concrete.
Walkways & Paths
Safe, attractive walkways with excellent traction in all weather conditions. Natural appearance blends with landscaping.
Commercial Entrances
Professional appearance with low maintenance requirements. Slip-resistant surface reduces liability in wet conditions.
Sports Courts
Durable surface for basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts. Provides good traction without being abrasive.
Our Exposed Aggregate Process
Aggregate Selection & Design
We help you choose the perfect aggregate type, size, and color to match your vision. We'll show you samples and discuss the best options for your specific application.
Site Preparation
We excavate, grade, and compact the subbase. Proper drainage and a solid foundation are critical for long-lasting exposed aggregate concrete.
Forms & Reinforcement
We install forms to define edges and shape, add reinforcement (rebar or wire mesh), and prepare for the concrete pour.
Concrete Pour & Finishing
We pour concrete mixed with your chosen aggregate, spread and level it evenly, and smooth the surface. The aggregate is distributed throughout the concrete mix.
Aggregate Exposure
At the optimal time during curing, we apply a surface retarder and use specialized washing and brushing techniques to remove the top layer of cement paste, revealing the beautiful aggregate beneath.
Curing & Sealing
After proper curing, we clean the surface and apply a high-quality sealer to enhance color, protect against stains, and make maintenance easier.
Maintaining Your Exposed Aggregate
Regular Cleaning
Sweep regularly and wash with a garden hose or pressure washer (low pressure) to remove dirt and debris. Mild soap can be used for stubborn stains.
Resealing
Reseal every 2-3 years to maintain protection and enhance appearance. This simple maintenance step significantly extends the life of your concrete.
Winter Care
Avoid using deicing salts, which can damage the surface. Use sand for traction instead. Snow removal with plastic shovels is safe.
Stain Prevention
Clean spills promptly, especially oil, grease, and acidic substances. The natural texture helps hide minor stains, but prevention is always best.
Ready to Reveal Natural Stone Beauty?
Get a free consultation and estimate for your exposed aggregate project. Serving Pierce County since 2011.