Exposed aggregate driveways deliver the grip you need on winter slopes and the visual depth that plain concrete lacks. The washed-back stone finish is durable, decorative, and asks for less maintenance than stamped alternatives. We start every project with a free written estimate and site visit.
Stone Texture Meets Durability in Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate sits between plain concrete and high-maintenance decorative finishes. The stone in the mix is revealed during the wash-back process, creating a surface that looks finished without the cost or upkeep of stamped patio work. Winter traction is the real payoff: the exposed stone grips boots, tires, and snow-removal equipment far better than a smooth slab.
The finish hides dirt and wear patterns better than broom-finish concrete, so your driveway stays looking fresh longer. Underneath, it is a standard air-entrained concrete driveway on a proper base, built to handle Gatineau freeze-thaw cycles. The decorative appeal comes from the surface treatment, not from cutting corners on structure.
Stone size and colour are your choice. Smaller pea gravel gives a fine, uniform look. Larger stones create bold visual texture. We bring samples to your site so you can see how the aggregate pairs with your home's exterior before we pour.
Recent work
Installation sequence
Building an Exposed Aggregate Driveway Step by Step
Select stone and depth
You choose the aggregate type, size, and colour. We confirm how deep the wash-back will go to expose the stone to your preferred level of texture.
Mix and pour concrete
Air-entrained concrete is mixed with your chosen aggregate, placed into the forms, and screeded level. The slab is left to set to the right firmness for washing.
Wash and brush the surface
At the precise moment, we apply controlled water pressure and brushing to remove the surface cement paste and reveal the stone. Timing is critical: too early and stones pull out, too late and cement stays stuck.
Cure and seal
The slab cures fully, then we apply a penetrating sealer to lock in the stone, repel water and de-icing salt, and enhance the natural colour of the aggregate.
How it stacks up
Exposed Aggregate Compared to Other Finishes
Exposed aggregate outperforms a brushed finish on looks and grip while staying simpler than stamped concrete. Stamped work offers more pattern variety but demands more frequent driveway sealing and can show wear in high-traffic zones.
Adding integral colour to the base concrete deepens the visual effect without changing the texture or maintenance schedule. The stone choice itself shifts the overall tone, so you get customization without complexity. For a full breakdown of all driveway options, see our service hub.
Texture, grip, sealing, and how exposed aggregate performs in Gatineau winters.
Because the stone surface gives natural winter grip and decorative texture without the higher upkeep of stamped concrete. For Canadian conditions, it is a hard-to-beat balance of look, grip and maintenance.
It has more texture than a smooth slab but is not aggressive underfoot. Most homeowners find it comfortable, and shovels glide cleanly across it once you get the angle. The stone size we choose tunes the feel.
Less often than stamped, typically every three to four years in Gatineau. The natural stone surface hides wear better and the sealer keeps water and salt out of the matrix between the stones.
Yes. The base concrete can be integrally coloured under the exposed surface, and the stone choice itself shifts the tone. We bring samples so you can see the combinations in daylight.
Somewhat. The timing of the wash-back has to be right, too early and you lose stones, too late and the surface stays cement-covered. We schedule the pour for weather that lets us time it cleanly.
Homeowner reviews
What Gatineau Homeowners Say About Their Exposed Aggregate Driveways
Exposed aggregate across the whole driveway. The grip in winter is the real win, our boots and the dog never slip on the slope coming down.
H. C.
Gatineau
★★★★★
Picked a warmer stone tone to match the brick on the house. The driveway pulls the whole front of the property together and has hidden a season of use beautifully.
A. P.
Kanata
★★★★★
Lower upkeep than the stamped patio we did the year before. Same texture quality, less work, exactly what they explained on the estimate.
G. N.
Manotick
★★★★★
Timed the wash-back perfectly. The stones are exposed to the depth we wanted, the joints are clean, and the seal has held through the first winter.
R. Y.
Barrhaven
From the blog
Concrete Guides & Articles
Practical reading on planning, finishes and caring for concrete in Gatineau.
Describe the driveway size and the stone finish you want, and we will visit your site with aggregate samples and a written quote. No obligation, no pressure.
