Exposed Aggregate
Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Natural stone beauty built into the surface — slip-resistant, low-maintenance, and timeless for driveways, patios, pool decks, and walkways across Durham and the Triangle.
Typical Range
$8 – $14 / sq ft
Service Area
Durham & the Triangle, NC
Experience
3 Generations
Why Choose Us
Why Exposed Aggregate by L.D. Williams
Natural Beauty Without Maintenance
Exposed aggregate reveals the natural stone, pebble, or quartz in the concrete mix — a timeless, organic look that never goes out of style and requires minimal upkeep.
Superior Slip Resistance
The textured surface of exposed aggregate provides excellent natural traction — making it one of the safest concrete finishes for driveways, pool decks, and walkways.
Hides Dirt, Stains & Weathering
Unlike smooth concrete that shows every tire mark and stain, the textured surface of exposed aggregate naturally disguises everyday wear and minor discoloration.
Durable as Any Concrete Surface
The hardened aggregate stones are embedded in the concrete matrix — they don't come loose or wear away under normal vehicle and foot traffic.
Customizable Stone Types
Choose from river pebble, quartz, granite chips, recycled glass, or local stone aggregate. We can match surrounding landscape and architecture.
Pairs Beautifully with Other Finishes
Exposed aggregate is frequently used as a contrasting border or accent alongside stamped or stained concrete for stunning combination finishes.
HOW EXPOSED AGGREGATE IS MADE
Exposed aggregate is created by applying a surface retarder to freshly poured concrete before it sets, then washing away the top layer of cement paste to reveal the decorative aggregate below. Timing is critical — it requires an experienced crew.
- Concrete poured with selected decorative aggregate in the mix
- Surface retarder applied immediately after screeding
- Retarder prevents the top 1/4" of cement from hardening
- After the base sets, the top surface is washed away
- Aggregate is revealed, cleaned, and sealed
- Results are permanent — part of the concrete matrix
AGGREGATE OPTIONS
The type and size of aggregate in your mix defines the color, texture, and character of the final surface.
- River pebble — smooth, rounded, earthy brown and gray tones
- Quartz aggregate — bright, sparkling appearance
- Granite chips — gray and black, dense and durable
- Limestone — cream and buff tones, softer appearance
- Recycled glass — colored, unique, eco-friendly option
- Local stone — matches regional landscape character
IDEAL APPLICATIONS
Exposed aggregate is a go-to finish for outdoor surfaces where beauty, durability, and slip resistance all matter.
- Driveways — excellent vehicle traction, hides tire marks
- Pool decks — slip-resistant, stays cool underfoot
- Patios — natural look complements outdoor landscaping
- Walkways and front entries — curb appeal and safety
- Public sidewalks and commercial plazas
- Driveway borders and decorative accent bands
MAINTENANCE & CARE
Exposed aggregate is one of the lowest-maintenance concrete finishes. Routine cleaning and periodic resealing is all it needs.
- Rinse with a garden hose as needed to remove debris
- Seal every 3–5 years to protect aggregate and prevent staining
- Pressure washing restores appearance and removes weathering
- Avoid de-icing salts in winter — use sand instead
- Deep stains can often be removed with a concrete degreaser
Serving Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh & beyond
Ready to start your exposed aggregate project?
Common Questions
Exposed Aggregate FAQs
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule Your Free Estimate
Serving Durham, Raleigh, Chapel Hill & the Triangle since 1964.