Question 1

What is an exposed aggregate pool deck and how is it made?

Accepted Answer

An exposed aggregate pool deck is a concrete surface where the top layer of cement paste is removed to expose the decorative stone or glass aggregate embedded in the concrete. The installation process involves placing standard reinforced concrete, seeding or integrally mixing decorative aggregate, applying a surface retarder to delay the top cement layer from hardening, and then pressure washing the surface to remove the soft cement paste and reveal the aggregate texture below. The result is a durable concrete surface with a natural stone appearance and built-in slip resistance from the aggregate texture.

Question 2

Is exposed aggregate slippery around a pool when wet?

Accepted Answer

Exposed aggregate is one of the naturally most slip-resistant pool deck surfaces available. The aggregate stones embedded in the surface create a textured profile that provides genuine traction in wet conditions u2014 similar to walking on coarse gravel. Unlike smooth concrete or polished stone, which become significantly slippery when wet, exposed aggregate maintains good traction even with pool water or rain on the surface. The coarser the aggregate selected, the more traction the surface provides. We recommend exposed aggregate to pool owners with safety as a primary concern, particularly for households with children or older adults who use the pool regularly.

Question 3

How does exposed aggregate hold up to New England's freeze-thaw cycles?

Accepted Answer

Properly specified and installed exposed aggregate holds up very well to New England's freeze-thaw cycles. The key is using a concrete mix with appropriate air entrainment u2014 typically 5u20137% air content for freeze-thaw exposure in New England u2014 which allows the concrete to expand and contract without internal cracking. We use penetrating sealers rather than film sealers, which avoids the delamination risk that film coatings create in freeze-thaw environments. With proper mix design, joint placement, and sealing, exposed aggregate pool decks in New England can last 25u201340 years without major repairs.

Question 4

How much does an exposed aggregate pool deck cost in New England?

Accepted Answer

Exposed aggregate pool deck installation in New England typically ranges from $8 to $18 per square foot installed, depending on aggregate selection, substrate preparation requirements, and project size. A typical residential pool deck of 500u2013800 square feet might cost $5,000u2013$14,000 installed. Aggregate selection affects cost u2014 standard river stone is less expensive than premium quartz or granite aggregates. Exposed aggregate is generally more affordable than porcelain tile or premium paver installations while offering comparable or superior durability in New England's climate. We provide free itemized estimates for every project.

Exposed Aggregate Pool Decks in New England