Decorative Exposed Concrete

1. Is exposed aggregate paving only suitable for driveways?

No, the possibilities are endless in residential or commercial settings. Any of our eleven aggregate mixes can be selected for use in driveways, footpaths, alfresco areas, restaurants, cafés, conservatories, patios and pool surroundings.

2. Does Lumeah include mesh?

Steel reinforcing mesh is always used. It is placed in the correct position within the poured concrete to maximize its design load capacity and to minimise the potential for shrinkage cracking during the curing process.

3. Do I need cut joints in exposed aggregate concrete?

All insitu poured concrete requires control joints to accommodate shrinkage during its curing process. Thus, it is important to plan a joint layout strategy prior to commencement of the works. The requirement to form joints on the day of installation is essential, as is the need to cut designated joints into the new concrete the day after the concrete pour is completed. Failure to comply with this regime will inevitably lead to unsightly and unnecessary shrinkage cracks throughout the project. The Lumeah team will always work to a plan to minimise the risks in this area.

4. Do I need expansion joint materials?

Changes in ambient temperatures cause all products to expand and contract. Lumeah handcrafted decorative concrete is no exception to this process and thus we need to cater for these thermal changes in your new investment. Thus, all our handcrafted decorative concrete will always be separated from abutting brickwork, walls, piers and intrusions by a layer of expansion foam. The foam will absorb the expansion and contraction between the two different surfaces allowing them to move freely and independently. Again this will assist in minimizing the potential to crack at the interface of these different materials. Our site supervision will ensure this expansion foam is in position before any concrete is poured.

5. What thickness will the concrete be?

It is essential to keep the thickness of the poured concrete as consistent as practically possible and close to its required design thickness to avoid breaking and cracking when trafficked. Ground level preparation is paramount in this instant and correct base preparation will allow for placement of the new decorative concrete to correct finished levels whilst maintaining the desired concrete thickness. This attention to detail at the time of base preparation will again minimise the risks associated with breaching design limits of the concrete when in service. Site levels will be checked prior to any concrete pour commencing by our experienced supervisors.

6. When is the surface cleaned and sealed?

All exposed aggregate concrete requires to be cleaned shortly after the surface texture is exposed. This is done utilizing a mild acid solution in a controlled manner by our qualified site personnel. The acid wash is required to ensure that all the individual surface aggregates are thoroughly cleaned and are free from cement residue to show the natural luster of the brilliant colours. We will ensure this process is carried out in an even and consistent manner to ensure uniforminity over the whole project.

7. Will my paving be sealed?

Your new investment will be protected against surface containments by applying a suitable and appropriate sealer to the exposed aggregate surface. There are a wide range of sealants available with variable gloss levels which can alter the appearance of the exposed surface. Our experienced on site personnel will confer with you to ensure a suitable sealant is selected for your project prior to its application.

8. Should I expect colour variation?

Although we take extraordinary care, variations in the colour photographic representations shown in this brochure may vary from time to time. Whilst physical samples may be viewed at our display centres, please be aware that variations in the actual colours will occur and are beyond our control. Therefore, whilst every effort will be made to maintain colour consistency on your project, some colour variation will occur. Such factors as moisture content of the concrete mix at the time of installation, onsite ambient temperatures, finishing techniques, timing between concrete pours, the source of raw materials used in the mix design, the curing environment and many other factors may have an effect on the final colours achieved on site.