Washed Aggregate
Washed aggregate is a decorative concrete finish where the top layer of cement paste is removed to expose the natural stones (aggregates) within the concrete mix. This creates a textured, non-slip surface that is both functional and visually appealing. It’s commonly used for driveways, paths, and outdoor areas where durability and design go hand-in-hand. The washing process highlights the natural beauty of the aggregate, offering a rustic and organic aesthetic that blends well with modern and traditional landscapes.
Key Benefits of Washed Aggregate:
- Durable & Long-lasting: Perfect for high-traffic areas, such as driveways and walkways.
- Customizable: Available in a variety of stones and colours, giving you the freedom to create a design that complements your home.
- Low Maintenance: Resists stains and is easy to clean, maintaining its appearance for years.
- Non-slip: Ideal for wet conditions, making it a great choice for pool areas.
Honed Aggregate
Honed aggregate is a refined version of exposed aggregate where the surface is ground down and polished after washing, leaving a smooth, matte finish with the aggregate beautifully revealed. This finish is sleek, sophisticated, and ideal for high-end residential and commercial spaces. Honed aggregate is perfect for alfresco areas, patios, entrances, and internal floors where both aesthetics and comfort underfoot are important.
Key Benefits of Honed Aggregate:
- Smooth & Elegant Finish: The polished surface provides a sophisticated look while maintaining the natural stone appeal.
- Slip-resistant: Honed aggregate offers a safe, non-slip surface for both wet and dry conditions, making it an excellent choice for pool areas.
- Durable: Just as tough as washed aggregate, honed aggregate is built to last and withstand heavy traffic.
- Low Maintenance: The smooth finish makes cleaning easier, while still maintaining the long-lasting beauty of the surface.
Scope of Work
Washed and honed aggregate is a premium decorative concrete finish that combines visual appeal with strength and durability. Here’s how we bring these stunning surfaces to life—from the ground up.
We begin by clearing the site of any existing materials, vegetation, or debris. Our team ensures the area is levelled and graded correctly for water drainage. A stable foundation is crucial to prevent movement and to ensure the aggregate surface performs well over time.
Custom formwork is installed to shape the desired area precisely. We then prepare a compacted crushed rock base that supports the concrete and prevents cracking. This step is critical for achieving a smooth and even honed finish once the aggregate is exposed.
We pour high-quality concrete mixed with chosen decorative aggregates (such as river stones, granite, or quartz). Once poured, the surface is initially finished and allowed to partially cure before the washing and honing process begins. Timing and technique are key here to ensure the aggregate is revealed evenly and cleanly.
After the concrete has set, we wash away the surface layer to expose the embedded stones. The surface is then mechanically honed using specialised grinding equipment to achieve a smooth, matte finish with a tactile feel. This process enhances both the look and slip-resistance of the final surface.
Clients can choose from a wide variety of aggregate types, colours, and stone blends to create a unique surface that complements their architecture and landscaping. Pattern cuts, borders, and sealing finishes can also be added to elevate the visual appeal and match specific design requirements.
Once honing is complete, we apply a premium sealer to protect the surface from staining, weathering, and general wear. Sealing brings out the natural colours in the stone and helps maintain the finish for years to come.
Our team conducts a full site clean-up and final quality check. We ensure the finish is flawless, edges are neat, and the surface meets all design and durability standards. The result is a beautifully polished, long-lasting aggregate surface ready for use.