Exposed aggregate concrete, texture with purpose.
A stone-textured finish for driveways, walkways, patios and pool decks. A·K is based in Martinez, licensed (CSLB #823077), and serving Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area since 1991.
Exposed aggregate is concrete with its stones brought to the surface. The surface paste is removed to reveal the aggregate beneath, giving the slab a textured appearance rather than a smooth layer of cement paste. It is a practical option when you want visible stone and a finish that works with brick, pavers or surrounding planting.
- Exposed aggregate concrete finishes
- Driveways, walkways, patios and pool decks
- Base preparation and rebar reinforcement
- Control-joint and drainage planning
- Brick or paver border options
- Sealing
The surface is only part of the job.
In the Bay Area, the number one cause of concrete cracking is expansive soil moving under the slab. An exposed aggregate finish does not change that underlying issue. Skipping or skimping on base rock is a common shortcut that causes problems later. Subgrade preparation, compacted base rock, reinforcement and joints matter as much here as they do with any concrete finish.
- Base preparation suited to the soil, slope and use
- Rebar reinforcement only — never wire mesh
- Control joints to guide where cracking occurs
- Drainage considered before the pour
Where exposed aggregate fits
Driveways benefit from a surface that sits comfortably beside masonry borders and landscaping. Walkways can use the same finish to connect separate areas without introducing another material. On patios and pool decks, the decision is also about how the surface feels underfoot. Consider furniture, barefoot use, transitions to steps and the direction water needs to travel. The right finish depends on your soil, slope and use, not appearance alone.
Traction, texture and comfort
The exposed stones create texture that can offer traction, but no outdoor surface is slip-proof. Wet conditions, algae, debris and the choice of sealer can affect footing. Stone size, shape and how much aggregate is exposed influence how coarse the surface feels. For a pool deck or frequently used path, discuss comfort alongside traction. A rougher appearance does not automatically mean a better fit for every space.
Brick and paver borders
A brick or paver edge can give exposed aggregate a clear outline, frame a curve or separate it from turf and planting. Borders also offer a way to relate the concrete to existing steps or masonry. Their levels and transitions need to be planned with the slab so the finished surfaces meet sensibly. Border selection, joint layout and drainage should work together rather than being treated as separate decorative decisions.
Sealing and general care
Sealing can help protect exposed aggregate from staining and make its stone colors more noticeable. The appearance and traction depend on the sealer and surface conditions; a glossy finish is not the only option. Sweep away debris, rinse as needed and address spills before they settle into the texture. Avoid cleaners that can damage concrete or its sealer. Resealing needs vary with exposure, use and the product, so judge the condition rather than assuming a fixed schedule.
Stone texture, borders and curves.
How the free estimate works.
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Contact A·K
Call (925) 984-6883 or send a request through the contact form. Tell us whether you are considering a driveway, path, patio or pool deck. Estimates are free.
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Review the site
A site visit covers the existing surface, access, levels, drainage and intended use. It is also the time to discuss texture, borders and how the new concrete meets nearby surfaces.
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Agree on the scope
Talk through the finish and preparation before deciding on the work. A·K uses its own crews with no subcontractors. The scope depends on the property and what you want the concrete to do.
A·K serves homes throughout Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area, including Martinez, Walnut Creek, Danville, Alamo, Livermore, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Pleasanton and more.
Exposed aggregate questions, answered.
Straight answers to common questions.
What makes concrete exposed aggregate?
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The surface paste is removed to show the stones in the concrete. The result is a textured stone surface rather than a smooth cement-paste finish.
Is exposed aggregate suitable around a pool?
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It can be. Texture, barefoot comfort, drainage and sealer choice all matter. Suitability depends on the surface you select and the conditions around the pool.
Can exposed aggregate have a brick or paver border?
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Yes. A border can frame the slab and connect it visually to nearby masonry. Levels, transitions and joints need to be considered as part of the layout.
Does exposed aggregate stop concrete from cracking?
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No finish eliminates cracking. Proper base preparation, rebar, control joints and drainage help manage the conditions that contribute to it.
Does A·K offer free estimates?
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Yes. Contact A·K to discuss your project and a site visit. We serve Contra Costa County and the greater Bay Area.
Let's plan your project.
Contact us to discuss your project.