From so many options available, an exposed aggregate concrete patio can be an interesting choice for you to consider. Compared to the regular selection, this one comes with a distinctive look that will create an attractive visual on the exterior.
Visual and texture are the two most prominent things you can obtain when choosing this type of patio. The visual can get even better because different color options are available too. Although the choices may not be as many as paint selections, they will still help get you the most suitable one to match the exterior.
If you plan to build a patio soon, it seems good for you to know about the concrete option with exposed aggregate features.
That is why in this post, we will provide information about the 5 most-known facts about it. More interestingly, we will also give you 21 exposed aggregate concrete patio ideas to help you get inspired before making your design.
1. What Is The Difference Between Exposed Aggregate and Regular Concrete Patio?
The most basic fact that you must know first, which actually also becomes the answer to many people’s questions, is the significant difference between a concrete patio and the one made with exposed aggregate styling. Many people often get confused between the two, but both are actually different from one another.
It will be easier for us to understand the significant difference if we know about the definition of the concrete itself. It is none other but the mixture between aggregate and cement. In some cases, stone and sand can be included, too, depending on how they are used.
Based on the definition, we can say that a concrete patio is made with such a mixture. The significant difference is located in the fact that the surface is commonly smoothed out so that any rough materials included in it are not visible.
On the other hand, an exposed aggregate patio is quite different. The mixture used to create it is more or less the same. However, a special technique is used here to make the surface uniquely textured because aggregates are visible.
2. Who Usually Likes It?
If asked who usually likes this kind of patio instead of the regular concrete one, the best answer is those who prefer texture and multi-color to exist in their exterior design. It is perfect for those who think that a smooth concrete surface in patio design is boring or outdated.
3. Why Does It Become Favorite for Some Homeowners?
Concrete patios in exposed aggregate style indeed become the favorite of many homeowners. The question then is, why?
For this, there is no better answer than the advantages offered by a concrete patio with an exposed aggregate surface. The first is that it is versatile because it comes with various color and texture options that make it easier to match the look with what the exterior design needs the most, as we told earlier.
Talking about the texture, it is another thing that is advantageous about this patio type. The reason is that it is commonly resistant to skid.
About the maintenance, although we cannot say that it is the easiest one, it is still at a moderate level. Doing it regularly will help you in keeping the quality good.
4. Where Is the Best Placement for It?
A concrete patio with exposed aggregate look is suitable to place in the front, the back, or even the side of the house. The more important thing is how you decorate it with the choices of furniture or even appliances to add a more specific function to it.
As an example, you can take a look at this backyard exposed aggregate patio. It comes with a table and four chairs, making it a perfect alternative eating spot on the property.
5. When Is The Best Time to Build It?
Many people think it is best to build any type of concrete patio, including the one with an exposed aggregate surface, when the day is hot and sunny. The fact that you must know is not always like this. The factors are quite complex, actually.
If you live in average to high temperatures, building the patio during a hot day can make the water in the mixture evaporate quickly. Something like this can lead to some forms of damage like chipping, cracking, and flaking in the future.
If that is so, do you think it would be better to build the patio during cold weather then? The answer is NO.
The biggest possibility you will face when doing so is the longer time needed for the concrete to cure. Knowing about this, you possibly think that it is fine as long as the concrete is cured at the end.
However, you must know that it can cause different kinds of problems too. The most common examples are concrete shifting and the increased water level in the mixture. All those can affect the strength of the patio.
If all those are so, when is the best time to build the exposed aggregate-style concrete patio? Although it seems to be a pretty complex matter to decide, there are several tips that you can follow.
You can do the building process when the temperature of the day is between 50℉ to 60℉. The reason is that something below 50℉ will make it harder for the mixture to cure properly. On the other hand, temperatures above 60℉ will be too hot to cause the problems we mentioned earlier.
Since every one of us lives in different places with different temperature rates, the conditions may vary. That is why you must think about choosing the right time to start the building process really carefully.
If you are not sure about everything, you can always hire a builder to create the patio for you. Although it seems that you must prepare more money to get the service, a professional and experienced builder really knows when is the best time to build the patio and some best solutions to avoid problems about the temperature shifting that is very possible to happen anytime.
6. 21 Amazing Exposed Aggregate Concrete Patio Ideas You Must Check Out
Another beneficial thing about this type of concrete patio is that there is quite a lot of appearance that you can get to match the exterior. It is related to the color choices as well as the textured look.
Particularly for the colors, there are at least two defining factors. Those are the color of the concrete and the aggregate used, whether it only consists of one stone type or a mixture of some sort at once.
To get you inspired, you can look at the inspirations from different builders and designers that we have collected in the following. From all those, you know that concrete patios in exposed aggregate style can look amazing too.
Backyard Concrete Patio with Exposed Aggregate Style, Brick Accent, and Seatwall
Take a look at this patio design. Fabulous and warm are the words that we think are suitable to use to describe it.
The detail that we love is that the exposed aggregate concrete is not the only material used to create the backyard patio. As you can see, there is an accentuating brick detail arranged in a double soldier course position right in the middle.
This detailing does not only add a warm touch to the concrete patio. It also matches the brick home exterior quite the most.
We also like the addition of brick seatwalls with bluestone caps. These details are both functional and decorative at the same time.
If you look closely, the design also includes a channel drain that is useful for the drainage system of the patio. FYI, something like this is good to add since it can avoid puddles during the rainy season, which possibly caused some future damages because of the amount of water absorbed from the surface.
Exposed Aggregate Backyard Concrete Patio with Accentuate Stamped Round Firepit Area
This patio seems to be the answer that concrete patios should not always be in a boxy shape. You can also choose a curvy design if you want to. FYI, something like this results from the shape of the frame used in the building process.
Now let us talk about the exposed aggregate styling used in this backyard patio design. Just like the previous inspiration, this one also comes with different details for the fire pit area.
The round seating area here is made from concrete material with a smoothed and stamped surface. If you look closer, the floor on which the grilling station is located also has the exact same look here.
Another difference is that the round fire pit here is installed permanently. So, Yes, we can say that it is actually one of the main features in this patio design, which seems to tell us that the structure is also an alternative living spot for the house.
To add more interest, you can choose attractive outdoor chairs as done in the picture. The detachable cushions here are just great since you can replace them with ones with other colors whenever you want to, such as when you want to match the current season or design trend.
Multi-Level Concrete Patio and Walkway with Exposed Aggregate Look
There are lots that we want to talk about with this traditional patio design. First, it has a combination of exposed aggregate and stained concrete for the border and the steps.
Another attractive value of this patio is that the design is made to fit the leveling ground. That is why when you look at the picture, you can see that it has three different levels.
Another thing we love about it is that instead of being made into one large structure, it is divided into three different parts, each with other functions. The first is for the dining area with a round table and chairs, the second is for grilling, and the third is for the fire pit.
On the bottom left of the picture, we can see an exposed aggregate walkway. It seems that this structure gives more accessible access to the patio from the front of the house.
Exposed Aggregate-Style Concrete Patio as a Part of Beautiful Backyard Garden
This patio is in a traditional backyard. A structure like this makes it possible for you to get ultimate relaxation without leaving your house.
It is a part of the garden. It comes with a permanently installed round fire pit with metal garden chairs with cozy cushions and pillows for a comfortable backrest.
Can you imagine sitting here when the weather is nice while sipping your favorite cup of tea and enjoying the water sounds from the pond and the small waterfall and fountain? It may sound simple, but it can be so relaxing, particularly when you cannot leave the house at the time.
As you can see here, the patio does not have any cover, which makes it perfect for enjoying the sun. However, it is also connected to a small, shaded gazebo through an exposed aggregate concrete walkway so that whenever you do not want to be in the sun too much, you can still enjoy the relaxing sound and view of the pond comfortably.
Contrast and Trendy Combination of Exposed Aggregate Concrete and Stone Slab
This contemporary patio design is an excellent one for you to look at when you are looking for something trendy. It mainly consists of exposed aggregate for the picnic table and fire pit area and stone slabs for the decking.
The use of the two different materials here creates an invisible divider to emphasize the functions, such as the picnic table area that works as an alternative living and dining room. It also creates a contrasting visual in the whole patio design.
This look cannot be separated from the type of aggregate material used in the concrete mixture. FYI, it is dark granite.
We like the addition of built-in LED lighting underneath the deck here. It creates a dramatic visual, especially at night, and it also prevents people from tripping over when it is dark.
The Combination of Concrete and Exposed Aggregate in a Swimming Pool Patio
A concrete patio with exposed aggregate can also be a suitable choice for a swimming pool area. As an example, you can look at the one made with a fabulous, eclectic design above.
The fascinating thing about it is that the exposed aggregate is not the only material used in the patio. The most prominent one is none other but the regular concrete that is also used as the pool outline.
Other than that, you can also see the flagship stone pool coping. Although it does not connect directly with the exposed aggregate, it has a consistent color to match it.
Other than that, there is also stone slab material surrounding the fire bowl area. The grey color creates a contrast and gives a neutral touch when paired with the earthy exposed aggregate concrete.
Concrete Patio with Exposed Aggregate Surface, Chairs, and a Metal Fire Pit with Cover for Extra Living Space
The exposed aggregate patio that you can see here is suitable to call the extension of the covered one right next to it. If seen from the function, it is clear that it is a gathering area with blue chairs and a round metal fire pit. At night, a place like this is perfect for star-gazing.
From the design point of view, it is basically made to match the covered patio because it also has curves. Although the material is different from the stone tiles, it has a compatible yellowish color.
Now let us talk a bit about the covered patio next to the exposed aggregate one. You can find the definition of complete outdoor entertainment and experience here.
It has a small cooking area with a grill right in the corner. Next to it, there is a dining table set with eight seats.
Other than those, there is also a curved sofa with a round ottoman table. In front of this set, there is a cement alcove used for placing a TV.
Together with the exposed aggregate part, the whole patio design is just excellent. It provides you all you need for a unique outdoor living that is perfect for at-home refreshment.
Exposed Aggregate Patio Surface Concrete Patio with Loungers for Enjoying the Sun
Do you want to build an exposed aggregate patio for enjoying the sun when the weather is nice? If yes, this one can be the inspiration that you are looking for.
The size is not that big actually, but it goes along the shape of the house and porch, so it does not look small either. Besides, you can see that it connects to the wooden garden pavilion at the corner. Although it is not visible in the picture, the other way leads to the side entrance of the house.
From the design, it is undeniable that this patio is attractive. It combines dark exposed aggregate material that matches the exterior color scheme and smoothed concrete that creates the pattern.
The existence of loungers as the only furniture pieces makes it clear that this patio is an excellent one for enjoying the sun, including when it sets at the end of each day. The best thing is that this place can also be perfect for reading while enjoying the breeze.
Covered Exposed Aggregate-Style Concrete Patio with Complete Features for Entertainment and Quality Time
Entertainment can be so fun at home when you give full features to the exposed aggregate patio. The picture that you see here is the one that we meant.
Before talking about all those features, of course, we want to discuss the exposed aggregate concrete first. This design plays an essential role in setting the general tone of the whole space. Indeed, it is also made to match the house exterior color scheme.
Another significant thing that we want you to check out from the patio is that it has a cover from cedar material. It provides the shade needed for the ultimate comfort while enjoying leisure there.
If we try to see the whole structure from a different angle, we can see that there is a custom TV cabinet that at the same time also functions as a privacy screen.
At the corner, there is also a round fire pit. It comes with a seatwall made from the same material used in the lower part of the TV cabinet, which actually has a color theme that is compatible with the exposed aggregate patio floor.
Lastly, there is a minor kitchen feature to complete everything. It comes not only with a grill but also a smoker. Cooking some delicious foods would be a perfect companion while watching some sports or movies in the covered patio area.
Patio with Exposed Aggregate Flooring as an Alternative Living Room
The picture that you see here is the patio of a transitional cottage. If seen from the type of seats placed there, it is suitable to use as an outdoor living area.
On the floor, you can see the exposed aggregate concrete. It has an attractive look because of the combination of beige concrete mixture paired with black aggregates.
The thing that catches our attention more is actually the custom table with a built-in fireplace in the center. The surface is precisely the same as the exposed aggregate concrete on the floor if you look closely. Something like this is such a unique idea to create design consistency.
Exposed Aggregate Covered Patio with Curved Outdoor Kitchen Bar
Are you looking for some cozy inspiration? If yes, this exposed aggregate patio is a perfect one.
It basically has a brown color. As a combination, it has multitone aggregates with some spark of white here and there, giving a refreshing touch to the patio design.
The overall color theme of the exposed aggregate concrete surface matches the cozy brown color theme of the house. It even matches the lamp pendants, bar stools, and custom stone kitchen cabinets.
Not far from the patio, there is a picturesque swimming pool. We only talk about this because of the same and continuous exposed aggregate concrete that also becomes the patio surrounding the pool.
The thing that is so fascinating here is that the design shows that this type of patio can go along with other natural materials to create such a beautiful visual.
Thanks to the earthy color of the patio that makes it look like soil, it goes really well with the small plants planted on edge. It even looks well, being side by side with the mulch.
The last detail that we cannot miss from this design is the pairing between the patio surface and the boulders of the artificial waterfall. You can try a fantastic idea like this to build the patio for the pool area.
A Backyard Patio with Outdoor Dining Table Set and Exposed Aggregate Concrete Floor
Even in a limited space, an exposed aggregate patio can change everything beautifully. The picture here is an example that you must look at.
If this patio has a regular, smoothed concrete surface, it seems that the visual will be less attractive. On the other hand, the particular graphic of the exposed aggregate boosts the beauty to the next level.
The dining table and chairs are a feature that makes the patio even perfect. It will be an ideal place for enjoying breakfast during a day off. You can even add some string lights to make the area suitable for a romantic dinner.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Pool Deck and Patio
If you have a spacious place around the swimming pool, you can build an exposed aggregate patio, as you can see in the picture. In a place like this, you can place different types of furniture for an ultimate swimming time.
As an example, you can place some sunloungers for relaxing. Placing some comfortable seats surrounding a fire pit can also be an excellent addition for an evening swimming.
When the patio is spacious enough, you can even use it to host a pool or other casual parties with people who are close to you. You just need to remove or rearrange the furniture you place there and set everything to match your needs.
Brick and Exposed Aggregate Concrete Combination in a Pool Patio Design
Using brick as the combination for the exposed aggregate concrete mixture can also look attractive. In the picture, the brick looks like gorgeous frames for the patio.
The color of the patio surface might be different from the brick tone bordering it. However, both of them still look compatible with one another.
Particularly for the concrete and aggregate colors, it matches the rustic farmhouse building. It has an earthy tone that is compatible with wood materials.
If you are curious about how the whole exposed aggregate patio looks, you can take a look at this picture. You know that it is not only located in front of the building but also along the pool sides.
As for the brick material, it also completes the pool. However, the design is somewhat different, which is the pool coping.
a Gorgeous Backyard Patio Design with Neutral Theme and Exposed Aggregate Concrete Flooring
As we already mentioned several times before, with exposed aggregate concrete material, it will be easier for you to make the patio color to match the other elements in the design. In the picture, neutral is the theme chosen.
Everything looks gorgeous, calming, and cozy here. The salt white exposed aggregate seems highly compatible with the outdoor seats and cushions.
Their color is comfortably bright. That is why the choice of a darker wall color here becomes a good match for the patio.
The Beautiful Combination of Landscape Design with Brown Mulch and Exposed Aggregate Patio
When you choose an exposed aggregate patio for your exterior, you can also consider adding other elements to make everything look good together. An example that we want to show you here is mulch.
This soil covering can have a direct connection with the patio. That is why it can help enhance the visual. Something like this can be excellent for you who take landscape design seriously.
While the exposed aggregate concrete here has a neutral appearance, the type of mulch chosen as the pair here is brown wood. It has a compatible tone with the wooden materials of the house.
Trendy, Contemporary Patio with Frosted-Skylight Cover and Exposed Aggregate Concrete Floor
Do you want your patio to be covered but do not want it to be too dark? If that is so, you can take the picture above as an example.
In this trendy exposed aggregate patio design, the cover has a solid roof and frosted skylight. The unique feature allows the natural light to brighten up the space under it while still giving the protection from direct sunlight needed.
Another plus point that you can get here is when it is raining. You can still enjoy your time in the patio area without having to worry about getting wet because of the rain.
For a trendy visual, you can choose a brighter color for the exposed aggregate concrete. It will be even better if some compatible colors are selected for the roof and the walls, as done in the pic.
Cozy Farmhouse Patio with Light Brown Exposed Aggregate Floor Design
Take a look at this farmhouse patio with an exposed aggregate surface. It looks so cozy because of the light brown color.
Everything gets even better because of the existence of the pergola cover and furniture sets. Both of these elements are from the woods. Although the tones are quite different from one another, each can complete each other nicely.
We love the brick detailing on the pergola posts and fire pit body. It is the element that looks compatible with the light brown concrete floor.
Shaded Patio in Exposed Aggregate Concrete Style
The choices of shade and cover that you can choose for the concrete patio with an exposed aggregate surface are so various. If you do not want it to be permanent, you can select something as shown in the picture.
It is usually called the sail canopy. It gives the shade you need in a specific patio spot, such as the sitting area.
About the exposed aggregate floor, the one that you see here has a highly similar tone to the one applied on the wall. This choice is perfect for building an earthy and cozy atmosphere.
Simple but Gorgeous Combination of Exposed Aggregate Concrete, Stone Seatwall, Recessed Lighting, and a Bowl Fire Pit in a Contemporary Patio
For you who plan to place a fire pit in the exposed aggregate patio and think that you do not want to add any seats surrounding it, here is the right inspiration that you must take a look at. Instead of chairs, there is a seatwall included in the design.
Although it may not be as comfortable as outdoor chairs, it functions pretty well. Besides, it does not make the space crowded, so that it is highly suitable for those who like a more open feeling on their patio.
Especially for the one patio design shown in the picture, we do not only love the existence of the seatwall to replace chairs. We also like the recessed lights that become a good match for the fire in adding the dramatic visual in the surrounding.
Exposed Aggregate Concrete Floor in a Fabulous Patio and Fireplace Design
You can also include a standard outdoor fireplace with a chimney and extensions for an even better ambiance, as shown in the picture. The feature even has a coordinating color with the exposed aggregate concrete.
The design gets even better because of the existence of the furniture set with a table. It makes the space versatile enough to use in many ways, including having a friendly chat or afternoon tea time.
With an outdoor kitchen behind it, it gets even better. You can cook and eat while enjoying the outside weather for at-home entertainment.
Closing
An exposed aggregate concrete patio is truly an amazing and attractive feature that can beautify your exterior with its unique textured appearance. It even comes with the possibility to choose different colors to match your design.
You should remember that compared to a regular concrete patio, this one might cost you more. It is related to the extra labor and more types of materials needed to get it done. Besides, you should also consider the special sealing and different kinds of cleaning required after the patio is built for the sake of durability.
However, if cost and some extra maintenance are not a problem for you, you can just go for it and obtain a unique visual to enhance the aesthetic value of your patio design.