How to Finish an Exposed Aggregate Sidewalk

Exposed aggregate offers a unique, attractive surface for a pavement. Concrete mixes often contain aggregate, or small stones, that help form a solid concrete surface. Finishing an exposed aggregate sidewalk is an inexpensive do-it-yourself project that takes about an hour to complete. If you're finishing a large surface, get a small team of people to help stagger your pour times to ensure the work can be completed before the concrete is too hard.

Straightedge
Retarder
Soft brush
Hose
Acid wash
Breathable fabric
Clear sealant

Instructions

- 1
  Drag a straightedge across the freshly poured concrete surface in a sawing motion. This levels off the top and fills in any low areas.
- 2
  Spray the entire surface with a retarder. Concrete retarders are designed to slow the setting process so the interior will harden first and the exterior will remain soft longer. Refer to the instructions on the retarder package to see how long the concrete should harden.
- 3
  Push a soft-bristled scrub brush over the surface when it is hard enough to hold your weight without the aggregate moving. Spray the surface with a hose and brush off a thin top layer of concrete paste to reveal the decorative aggregate below.
- 4
  Wash the surface with an acid wash and rinse with a hose to remove all solutions from the surface.
- 5
  Cover the exposed aggregate with a damp breathable fabric and slow-dry the surface for about seven days, keeping the fabric moist.
- 6
  Brush clear sealant over the exposed aggregate to protect it from weather, slow fading and to make the area easier to clean.

Aggregate Concrete Projects

How to Lay Exposed Aggregate Paving

Paving