Real Stone Texture, Built Into the Slab
Across the Indianapolis area, Golden Paw Concrete pours exposed aggregate driveways, patios and pool decks that show off natural stone.
- 3-Year Workmanship Warranty
- Woman-Owned & Locally Owned
- Free In-Person Estimates
- 0% Financing for 12 Months*
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Services
Exposed aggregate concrete strips away the thin top layer of cement paste to reveal the stones mixed into the slab. The result is a surface with real texture, natural color variation and solid grip underfoot. Golden Paw Concrete pours exposed aggregate for driveways, patios, walks and pool decks around Indianapolis as part of our decorative concrete work. It suits people who want texture without an imitation pattern.
How Decorative Exposed Aggregate Concrete Is Made
It starts with the mix. Concrete with an attractive stone in it, often rounded river rock or pea gravel in tans, grays and browns, is placed and finished like a normal slab. Then the surface paste is kept from setting, usually with a retarder sprayed on top. Once the concrete below has firmed up, that paste is washed or brushed away. What's left is a field of stones locked into the concrete.
Stone size and color set the look. Small pea gravel reads fine and even. Larger river rock looks bolder and more rustic. Choosing the stone is the main design decision, and it's one your concrete specialist will talk through at the in-person consultation.
Exposed Aggregate Driveways, Patios and Pool Decks
An exposed aggregate driveway hides dirt and tire marks well because the surface is already varied. The stone texture also gives tires grip on a sloped drive. Read more about the slab itself on our concrete driveways page.
On a patio, exposed aggregate gives a natural, garden-friendly look that pairs well with plantings and stone walls. An exposed aggregate pool deck is a popular choice because the stones grip wet feet; smaller stone is kinder to bare skin. Our pool deck page has more on building around a pool. Front walkways, porches and steps work well too, especially where they meet a stone or brick facade.
Exposed Aggregate Compared With Other Finishes
Each finish trades looks, grip and upkeep a little differently. Here's the side-by-side. Pricing depends on the job, so it comes with your written estimate.
| Finish | Look | Traction | Upkeep | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exposed aggregate | Natural stones showing across the surface, from tan to gray to brown | High; the stone texture grips well | Low to moderate: periodic sealing keeps stones bright and tight | Driveways, pool decks, patios, walks |
| Stamped | A pattern pressed in to look like stone, brick, slate or wood, usually in two tones | Moderate; a glossy sealer can make it slick when wet | Highest of the four: needs resealing every few years to keep color and texture | Patios, front entries, driveway borders |
| Colored & stained | Solid or mottled earth tones in place of plain gray, smooth or textured | Matches the texture under the color | Moderate: a sealer holds the color and needs renewing now and then | Patios, walkways, borders, and paired with stamping |
| Broom finish | Plain gray with fine brushed lines and crisp tooled edges | High, wet or dry | Lowest: sweep, rinse, and seal if you choose | Driveways, sidewalks, steps, garage aprons |
If you like the idea of stone but want a pattern, stamped concrete imitates slate, brick or flagstone. For a single tone without visible stone, look at colored and stained concrete. For the simplest high-grip surface, there's broom finish.
Caring for Exposed Aggregate
As general guidance, exposed aggregate is sealed after it cures and resealed every few years. The sealer brings out the color in the stones, makes cleaning easier and helps hold them tight through Indiana's freeze-thaw cycles. A sealer made for outdoor exposed aggregate is the right pick. High-gloss sealers can turn slick when wet.
Keep metal shovel blades and de-icing salt off the surface. Salt works into the paste around each stone, and freeze-thaw can loosen stones over time. That kind of damage isn't covered by our 3-year workmanship warranty, which covers problems caused by work done incorrectly. Use sand for traction and a plastic shovel.
Questions & Answers
Exposed Aggregate FAQs
Have another question? Visit our FAQ page or call or text (317) 672-0966.
How does exposed aggregate compare with broom finish for grip?
Both grip well. Broom ridges are uniform and fine, while exposed stone gives a coarser, more natural texture. Exposed aggregate has a more finished look but benefits from periodic sealing, where broom finish can go without.
Can the stones come loose over time?
A few surface stones can loosen, usually from salt, metal shovel blades or a sealer that's been left to wear out. Keeping up with sealing and skipping salt are the best ways to keep them in place.
How do I know exposed aggregate needs resealing?
Water stops beading on the surface, and the stones start to look dull and dusty instead of rich. Our Zionsville exposed aggregate article covers texture, traction and upkeep on patios.
Where does exposed aggregate make the most sense?
Driveways, pool decks, patios, front walks and porches, anywhere you want grip and a natural look. If you want a very smooth surface for furniture legs or bare feet, ask about smaller stone at your consultation.
Why Choose Golden Paw
Why Homeowners and Property Managers Choose Golden Paw
3-Year Workmanship Warranty
Every service we offer carries a 3-year workmanship warranty covering problems caused by our work. Outside damage, like de-icing salt, isn't included.
A Written, Itemized Scope
Your estimate spells out what we will pour, remove and finish before any work is scheduled, so there are no surprises on pour day.
Permits Handled for You
When a project needs a permit, we apply for it. You don't have to chase down the city or county.
Woman-Owned and Local
A family business, woman-owned and locally owned, with offices in Indianapolis and Carmel.
Better Concrete, Not the Cheapest Bid
We build for the long haul. Proper base prep, forms, joints and finishing cost a little more up front and save you a tear-out later.
Free Estimates, 0% Financing
An in-person consultation and estimate at no cost, plus 0% financing for 12 months, subject to credit approval.
Let’s Get Started
Start Your Exposed Aggregate Project
Golden Paw Concrete pours exposed aggregate concrete across Indianapolis and the surrounding area, including Zionsville, Westfield, Noblesville and Cicero. Call or text (317) 672-0966, or request a free estimate and we'll talk through stone options on site.