Exposed Aggregate Concrete by Legacy General Contractor
EXPOSED AGGREGATE CONCRETE — NATURAL STONE TEXTURE WITH LASTING DURABILITY
Exposed aggregate concrete reveals the natural beauty of the stone within the mix. After pouring and initial screeding, we apply surface retarder to the top layer, then pressure wash away the cement paste to expose the aggregate. The result is a naturally textured, slip-resistant surface with visual depth. We finish with a penetrating sealer to protect against freeze-thaw damage, staining, and wear.
Starting at $10 per sq ft
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Services
Select a service below for pricing, process details, and FAQs.
Pea Gravel Exposed Aggregate
Smooth pea gravel exposed finish for driveways, patios, and walkways. Classic Minnesota exposed aggregate look with natural stone color.
From $10 per sq ft
Learn MoreRiver Rock Exposed Aggregate
Larger river rock aggregate for bold texture and color. Premium exposed finish with natural stone character.
From $12 per sq ft
Learn MoreGlass & Decorative Aggregate
Recycled glass, quartz, and decorative aggregate for premium finishes. Sparkle and color effects for high-end hardscape.
From $16 per sq ft
Learn More5 Highlights on Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Residential exposed aggregate
driveways, patios, and walkways with beautiful natural stone texture that provides excellent traction and timeless appeal.
Commercial exposed aggregate
building entrances and plazas with durable, slip-resistant surfaces that handle heavy foot traffic.
Surface retarder technique
precisely timed retarder application and pressure washing to reveal the aggregate at the perfect depth.
Multiple aggregate options
choose from natural stone colors and sizes to complement your property's aesthetic.
Why Choose Our Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Exposed aggregate requires precise timing — apply the retarder too early and you lose too much paste; too late and the aggregate won't expose properly. Our finishers nail the timing every time.
We select aggregate that complements your property and provides the look you want — from fine pea gravel to larger decorative stone.
Every exposed aggregate project receives penetrating sealer to protect against freeze-thaw damage and staining while maintaining the natural texture.
As part of our full Decorative Concrete offerings, our Exposed Aggregate Concrete services complement other solutions like Stamped Concrete and Colored Concrete. We serve homeowners and businesses across the NW Metro Minneapolis area with expert craftsmanship and competitive pricing.
Signs You Need Exposed Aggregate Concrete
1. Want a natural, textured look
Exposed aggregate provides a naturally beautiful surface with depth and visual interest that plain concrete can't match.
2. Need slip-resistant surfaces
The stone texture of exposed aggregate provides excellent traction, making it ideal for driveways, walkways, and pool surrounds.
3. Prefer low-maintenance decorative concrete
Exposed aggregate requires less maintenance than stamped concrete — no pattern re-sealing needed as frequently.
Our Exposed Aggregate Concrete Process
Step 1 — Aggregate Selection
Choose stone type, size, and color. We can provide samples to match your design vision.
Step 2 — Subbase & Pour
Prepare subbase, set forms, install reinforcement, and pour concrete with selected aggregate mix.
Step 3 — Retarder Application
Apply surface retarder at the correct timing to delay set on the top layer while the body of the slab cures.
Step 4 — Exposure
Pressure wash the retarded surface layer to expose the aggregate at the desired depth. Control water and timing carefully.
Step 5 — Sealing
After curing, apply penetrating sealer to protect against moisture, staining, and freeze-thaw damage.
Brands We Use
- Brickform — surface retarders for exposed aggregate
- Solomon Colors — integral color options for background color
- SureCrete — penetrating sealers for aggregate protection
Our Work
FAQs About Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Does exposed aggregate lose stones over time?
When properly installed and sealed, exposed aggregate retains its stone surface for decades. The aggregate is embedded in the concrete matrix — only the surface paste is removed.
How do you maintain exposed aggregate?
Annual pressure washing removes dirt and debris. Re-sealing every 3-5 years maintains protection. Avoid using de-icing salts on exposed aggregate surfaces.
Pricing
$10 - $20
per sq ft
*Varies by project scope and site conditions.
Related Services
You May Also Need
Many of our Exposed Aggregate Concrete clients also invest in these complementary services to protect and enhance their property.
Available In These Cities
We provide Decorative Concrete including Exposed Aggregate Concrete across the NW Metro Minneapolis area:
Leave Concrete to the Pros
Because with Legacy General Services,
You Get More Than a Guarantee
When you choose Legacy General Services for your concrete project in the NW Metro, you're choosing a partner committed to quality that lasts.
Reputation
MN-registered contractor since 2023. Insured and trusted by homeowners across the NW Metro.
Transparency
No hidden fees or surprise charges. Upfront pricing on every concrete project—big or small, start to finish.
Efficiency
On-time scheduling and reliable project timelines. We show up when we say we will and finish on schedule.
Quality
Air-entrained, freeze-thaw resistant concrete built for Minnesota winters. Every pour meets or exceeds code.