Concrete Resurfacing vs. Exposed Aggregate: Choosing the Best Option for Your Outdoor Space

Choosing the right surface for your outdoor areas is a significant decision that impacts not only the aesthetics of your space but also its functionality and durability. When it comes to enhancing your driveways, patios, or walkways, the debate between concrete resurfacing vs. exposed aggregate concrete is one many homeowners encounter. Each option offers unique advantages and considerations, from the initial investment and installation process to long-term maintenance and aesthetic appeal.

In this article, we’ll explore these two popular choices, comparing cost, durability, design flexibility, and maintenance to help you decide which is best for your needs and budget.

Understanding the Options

When it comes to following the exposed aggregate trend, you have two options: getting the exposed aggregate look with concrete resurfacing or opting for actual exposed aggregate concrete. Both provide unique aesthetic and functional advantages suited to various preferences and needs.

Concrete Resurfacing for an Exposed Aggregate Look involves applying a thin layer of covercrete over your existing concrete surface. This innovative, affordable option offers a flecked textured finish that closely mimics the exposed aggregate’s sophisticated look. At my house, for example, I used French Grey with black and white flecks to get the “salt and pepper” exposed aggregate look (see pic below). This method offers a high degree of customisation and saves me a lot of money by not pulling up and removing my old concrete.

New Exposed Aggregate Concrete, on the other hand, involves pouring new concrete. This option delivers the unmistakable texture and depth unique to true exposed aggregate surfaces, creating a visually striking and tactile experience underfoot. While this process may involve more extensive work, including removing any existing concrete, it offers unparalleled authenticity in the final appearance, but it comes at a price.

Cost Comparison

Cost is likely to be the deciding factor between concrete resurfacing and new exposed aggregate concrete. Concrete resurfacing with Spray Your Concrete starts at an affordable $50 per square metre, including labour. This cost-effectiveness stems from the process’s efficiency and the avoidance of demolition and disposal fees associated with completely replacing old concrete.

On the contrary, opting for new exposed aggregate concrete can significantly increase the overall expense. The materials alone can range from $120 to $180 per square metre, with additional labour costs of around $70 per hour. If replacing existing concrete, removal and disposal add further costs of $45 to $60 per square metre. When these factors are considered, concrete resurfacing emerges as a considerably more budget-friendly option without compromising aesthetics.

Learn more about driveway resurfacing costs and concrete resurfacing costs.

Longevity and Durability

Durability and longevity are paramount when enhancing outdoor concrete surfaces. Concrete resurfacing, especially when aiming for an exposed aggregate look, offers robust durability. Covercrete sets at a higher compressive strength than regular concrete (40-50 MPa vs. 17-20 MPa), ensuring greater resistance to wear and abrasion. This means a properly resurfaced area can effectively withstand heavy traffic and environmental elements, lasting for 15-20 years, depending on maintenance and conditions.

New exposed aggregate concrete also boasts impressive durability, with its unique composition providing a hard-wearing surface ideal for outdoor conditions. However, the long-term performance of both options may be influenced by the existing concrete’s condition in the case of resurfacing. Regular maintenance, including sealing and occasional cleaning, is recommended for both surfaces to preserve their appearance and prolong their lifespan.

Learn more about concrete resurfacing durability.

Aesthetics and Design Flexibility

Both concrete resurfacing and new exposed aggregate concrete offer distinct advantages in the looks department. However, the aesthetic outcomes and design flexibility they provide can differ substantially, catering to a range of preferences and project requirements.

Concrete resurfacing, particularly when aiming for an exposed aggregate look, offers remarkable versatility in aesthetics. This method allows for the creation of a surface that closely mimics the appearance of true exposed aggregate through the application of a flecked finish in a variety of colour combinations. Whether you’re after a subtle “salt and pepper” look or something more vibrant, resurfacing provides the opportunity to customise your outdoor area’s appearance to match your home’s aesthetic. Additionally, the ability to incorporate patterns or designs further enhances the creative potential, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both uniqueness and elegance.

In contrast, true exposed aggregate concrete boasts an authentic texture and depth that’s difficult to replicate entirely. The natural beauty of the aggregate—stones, pebbles, and sand—embedded within the concrete comes to the fore, offering a tactile quality that’s as appealing to the touch as it is to the eye. While the options for customisation with true exposed aggregate might be somewhat limited compared to resurfacing, the intrinsic beauty of the materials used creates a timeless appeal that many homeowners desire.

Installation Process and Timeframe

The installation of new exposed aggregate concrete involves several steps, including the removal of any existing surface, preparation of the base, pouring of the new concrete, and a curing period. This process can span several days to weeks, depending on the project’s scale and complexity. The preparation phase is critical to ensuring proper adherence and durability of the new surface, followed by the careful selection and placement of aggregate. Once poured, the concrete must be allowed to cure fully, which can take up to a week or more, during which time the area cannot be used.

On the other hand, concrete resurfacing provides a quicker and less disruptive alternative. This process can often be completed in a significantly shorter timeframe, often within a day or two, depending on the area’s size. The existing concrete surface is prepared to receive the new overlay, which is then applied and finished according to the chosen aesthetic. This swift transformation means minimal downtime for your outdoor areas, allowing you to enjoy your refreshed space sooner and with less inconvenience.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Maintaining the beauty and longevity of both resurfaced and newly exposed aggregate surfaces requires similar care. Regular sealing (once every 1-2 years) is paramount to protect against wear, staining, and weather-related damage. This protective measure should be undertaken every few years to maintain the surface’s integrity and appearance. Additionally, occasional cleaning to remove dirt, leaves, and other debris will keep your outdoor area looking its best.

Ideal Use Cases

Another factor to consider when deciding between concrete resurfacing and new exposed aggregate for your outdoor space is specific project requirements and personal preferences. Concrete resurfacing shines as a cost-effective solution for homeowners looking to revitalise their existing concrete surfaces without the hefty price tag. It’s particularly advantageous for projects where the existing concrete is structurally sound but could use an aesthetic facelift. This method is ideal for quickly enhancing driveways, patios, and pool surrounds to achieve a modern, stylish look with minimal downtime and expense.

Conversely, new exposed aggregate concrete is the go-to option for scenarios requiring extensive structural repairs or where a completely new installation is desired. Its distinctive texture and depth offer unmatched natural beauty, making it a favourite for those aiming to achieve a specific high-end look. Exposed aggregate is also suited for new construction projects where starting from scratch allows for a fully customised approach to match the home’s overall design theme. Both options provide excellent anti-slip properties, making them safe choices for high-traffic areas, including pool surrounds, driveways, and walkways.

Comparison Chart: Concrete Resurfacing vs. Exposed Aggregate

Criteria	Concrete Resurfacing	Exposed Aggregate
Description	Application of a flecked covercrete to mimic the look of exposed aggregate, providing a textured finish.	Pouring new concrete with natural stones, pebbles, or sand visible on the surface for texture and depth.
Cost	Starts at $50/m², more affordable due to avoiding demolition and disposal fees.	$120 to $180 per square meter for materials, plus labour costs of about $70/hr and additional costs for removal and disposal if replacing existing concrete.
Installation Time	Quicker and less disruptive, can often be completed within a day or two.	Time-consuming; involves removal of existing concrete, preparation, pouring new concrete, and curing time.
Longevity and Durability	High durability with covercrete setting at a higher compressive strength (40-50 MPa), lasting 15-20 years, depending on maintenance.	Also highly durable with a compression strength of 17-20 MPa but may require extensive initial work; proper maintenance can extend its lifespan considerably.
Maintenance	Requires sealing every 1-2 years and occasional cleaning to maintain appearance.	Similar maintenance, with regular sealing and cleaning needed to preserve texture and appearance.
Aesthetic Flexibility	High degree of customisation with various colours and patterns mimicking exposed aggregate.	Natural beauty with a tactile quality, though slightly less customisable than resurfaced options.
Ideal Use Cases	Best for upgrading existing concrete that is structurally sound, offering a quick aesthetic enhancement.	Suited for new constructions or complete replacements where a distinct, high-end look of natural aggregate is desired.
Safety Features	Offers slip resistance similar to exposed aggregate, suitable for driveways, walkways, and pool areas.	Naturally slip-resistant, ideal for high-traffic outdoor areas where slip resistance is crucial.

Conclusion

Choosing between concrete resurfacing and new exposed aggregate installation involves careful consideration of your aesthetic preferences, budget constraints, and the specific needs of your outdoor space. Each option offers unique advantages, whether it’s the cost-effectiveness and versatility of resurfacing or the authentic beauty and customisation potential of new exposed aggregate. It’s essential to evaluate the condition of your existing concrete, your desired outcome, and long-term expectations to ensure your selection not only elevates the appeal of your outdoor areas but also provides lasting satisfaction.

If you think concrete resurfacing is the way to go, then give us a call on 1800 954 449. We service the entire Gold Coast and look forward to providing a quote for your project.