Exposed aggregate concrete is concrete where the smooth top layer of cement paste is removed to reveal the sand and stone mixed into it. The result is a textured, natural-looking surface with built-in grip. It is also called a sand finish, and it is one of the best finishes for patios, sidewalks and driveways. Here is how it works, what it costs and where it makes the most sense.
What is exposed aggregate concrete?
Every concrete mix is made of cement, water, sand and stone (the aggregate). On a standard slab, the finisher brings a smooth layer of cement paste to the surface and the stones stay hidden underneath. With exposed aggregate, that top layer of paste is removed while the concrete is setting, so the sand and stone show through.
Instead of a flat gray surface, you get a speckled, textured finish that looks closer to natural stone. Because the look comes from the material itself, there is no stamped pattern or surface color to wear off.
Exposed aggregate vs. broom finish vs. stamped
| Finish | Look | Typical price |
|---|---|---|
| Broom finish | Plain, lightly ridged | Driveways $10.50 to $13.50 per sq ft; patios from $13.50 |
| Exposed aggregate (sand finish) | Textured, natural stone look | $17 to $19 per sq ft |
| Stamped | Patterned and colored like stone, slate or tile | $21 to $25 per sq ft ($5,000 job minimum) |
Exposed aggregate sits in the middle: more decorative than a broom finish, for less than stamped concrete. Our guide to broom, sand-finished or stamped concrete compares all three in more detail.
Great places to use exposed aggregate
Patios
Patios are where exposed aggregate shines. The texture looks at home next to landscaping, stone walls and wood decking, and it gives better grip than smooth concrete around a grill, fire pit or hot tub. It is a popular choice for homeowners who want an upgraded backyard without paying for stamped concrete. See our concrete patios page for pricing and the build process.
Sidewalks and walkways
Front walks, side-yard paths and walkways to the backyard get foot traffic in every kind of weather. The textured surface of exposed aggregate gives more grip than smooth concrete, and it dresses up the path from the driveway to the front door. Learn more on our walkways, steps and porches page.
Driveways
Exposed aggregate driveways add curb appeal and texture underfoot. If you want to manage cost, a popular approach is a broom-finished driveway with an exposed aggregate border or apron, which gives the decorative look at the street for a fraction of finishing the whole slab. See our concrete driveways page for driveway pricing.
Mixing finishes
Exposed aggregate pairs well with other finishes. A few combinations we see often:
- A broom-finished driveway with an exposed aggregate border
- An exposed aggregate front walk leading to a broom-finished porch
- An exposed aggregate walkway leading to a stamped backyard patio
What exposed aggregate costs
Exposed aggregate typically runs $17 to $19 per square foot with Golden Concrete Company. Like any concrete project, the final price depends on size, tear-out, how much road base is needed ($52 per ton) and access. Most backyard patios need a line pump, which adds $450. Every job starts with a free on-site consultation.
How it is built
An exposed aggregate slab is built the same way as any quality slab: old concrete is removed, the base is rebuilt with compacted road base, forms are set with the slope carrying water away from the house, and reinforcement goes in before the pour. The difference is in the finishing, when the surface paste is removed to expose the sand and stone. Residential slabs are typically 4 inches thick, most projects take 2 to 4 days, and every job comes with our 12-month warranty against shifting or cracking.
Is exposed aggregate right for you?
- Choose exposed aggregate if you want a decorative, natural look and better grip for less than stamped concrete.
- Choose a broom finish if budget is the priority or the driveway is steep.
- Choose stamped if you want a specific stone, slate or tile pattern and color.
See our exposed aggregate concrete page for more, browse finished work in the project gallery, or read the concrete FAQ. We serve Golden, Arvada, Lakewood, Westminster, Broomfield, Littleton and the rest of our service areas.
Ready for a quote? Call (720) 636-8986 or request a free concrete quote and we will call you back to schedule a free concrete consultation.