Exposed Aggregate Concrete Showdown: DIY vs Professional Finish

In this video, I will test and compare two different exposed aggregate techniques. The first is affordable and the materials are readily available to anyone. The other method is with high end materials from a professional concrete supply store.

I will also share with you my homemade recipe for exposed aggregate concrete. This is perfect for smaller jobs that don't require a concrete truck.

Affiliate Links to Products Used:
I could not find the surface deactivator and sealer online, I purchased through a local building supply store.
Magnesium Concrete Float, a mag float is a must have if you plan on doing even a small slab.

If purchased, I receive a commission.

[gregvanblaricum]

Thanks for posting this! I poured my concrete pad last week and want the exposed look for my steps that I do. Great work!

[edwardchester]

Nice effect and useful summary. Thanks!

[djfunknuckle]

wouold you do anything different if i'm sacalling up the size. i need to make a 6' x 11' slab

[djfunknuckle]

what kiind of stones are those and can youget them at home depot?

[Thagliou]

"threw a curve ball" 😂
Real big surprise there

[useitwice]

Nice test! Very thorough.
But what is muratic acid? 😅

[henryfehr]

The muriatic acid is not to darken the color. When you wash the surface a bit of residue is left behind and 5he acid stain to wash the haze off. And how deep you wash depends on when you put the coke on. If you put it on sooner the concrete is soft and it soak in deeper. If you put it on when you can walk on it you will get more of a sandwash finish.

[reddye]

Labs are the best! If there is any sticks or balls within the general area they are going to let u know its time to play fetch. No other breed of dog out there tht is as good as a lab, they are loveable k9's as well

[MrTeff]

Correct me if I’m wrong, but I suspect that any kind of soda will work just as well as Coca-Cola. There’s nothing magical about Coca-Cola or Dr Pepper. They’re just sugar water.

[jonathanthink]

diet coke may work better? regular coke usually leaves sticky sugar when it dries up.

[jaydeep-p]

Muratic acid really doesn't sound good for the soil