If you want to lay exposed aggregate around your home, then you have to choose how to uncover the aggregate in the concrete mix. This process removes the top layer of concrete and reveals the natural beauty underneath.
While you can expose an aggregate mix as soon as you install it, this won't always give you the best results. In some cases, it helps to add a retarder to the surface before you expose it. How do aggregate retarders work and why should you use one?
What Is a Surface Retarder?
Surface retarders are chemical products that you apply to freshly-laid concrete. The chemicals work on the surface of the concrete and slow down its setting process.
While the main part of the mix will set as usual, the retarder prevents the top layer from turning too hard. This gives you a window of time in which you can work on the surface after the concrete goes down.
Why Use a Surface Retarder?
If you're working on a small concrete installation in equable weather, then you probably have time to get the concrete down and strip of its top layer to expose it. However, this won't work on every job.
If you're surfacing a larger area, then you have a race against time to lay and expose the concrete before it sets. Hot weather may close down the window of opportunity you have even more.
So, you'll have to rush through the job to create an exposed aggregate while the concrete is still pliable enough to work on. You may not always get a perfect and consistent finish all over the surface if you have to work quickly. It may be hard to take off the top evenly.
If you add a surface retarder to the mix, then you buy yourself extra time. As long as you start exposing the aggregate within the retardant's time limit, you'll have no problems washing or hosing the top layer off. This layer stays soft so that it can be removed easily.
So, you can work at a more leisurely pace. You can take the time you need to create an even and professional looking aggregate surface. You can even use a retarder to help you control the depth of concrete you'll take off. Your finished surface will look better.
To find out more about how a surface retarder will help you create an aggregate concrete look for your project, contact concrete contractors.
Share24 July 2020
Pouring concrete isn't necessarily as straightforward as it looks. Depending on the land, you have to make multiple adjustments ranging from laying a layer of gravel to putting in moisture barriers. Then, depending on the size of the concrete pad, you may need to add steel reinforcements. After the concrete has dried and cured, you may decide to add sealants, do an acid wash or play with other finishes. Then, of course, there are differences between pouring concrete inside or outside. In this blog, I hope to cover all those issues and more. If you're looking for tips and ideas, take a look at these posts. Whether you plan to hire a concrete contractor or do the work yourself, it can help to know this information.
