The projects above show exposed aggregate sidewalks, patios, steps, retaining walls, planting beds and custom hardscapes completed by Marc Todd Concrete throughout Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana, including designs combined with inlaid paving bricks.
Marc Todd Concrete installs exposed aggregate concrete patios, sidewalks, steps, entrances and custom hardscapes throughout Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana. With more than 35 years of concrete experience, we create decorative concrete surfaces that combine distinctive natural texture with dependable performance.
Exposed aggregate is created by revealing the decorative stone near the surface of a newly placed concrete slab. The selected aggregate, concrete color, exposure and surrounding materials can all influence the finished appearance, allowing each project to complement the home, landscape or commercial property around it.
An exposed aggregate patio adds visual interest without relying on a repeating stamped pattern. The exposed stone produces natural color variation and texture that works especially well around landscaped areas, lakeside homes, screened porches and outdoor gathering spaces.
We plan the patio shape, elevations, drainage, control joints and connections to steps or walkways before placement. Curves, planting beds and defined borders can be incorporated when the surrounding landscape calls for a more customized layout.
Exposed aggregate is a practical decorative finish for sidewalks, garden paths, porch approaches and custom concrete steps. Its textured surface helps define pedestrian areas while coordinating them with patios, retaining walls and other exterior concrete work.
Curved sidewalks and formed steps require careful layout so the lines, risers and surrounding grades work together. We also consider surface texture and drainage so exterior walking areas remain functional in Michigan and Indiana weather.
Paving bricks can be inlaid into exposed aggregate concrete to create borders, bands and custom design details. The smooth geometry and color of the paving bricks contrast with the natural exposed-stone texture, producing a finished surface that is distinctive without being overly ornate.
These details may be used in patios, sidewalks, landings and other custom hardscapes. We plan the paving-brick placement before the concrete is poured so the materials fit together as one coordinated design rather than appearing added afterward.
Exposed aggregate can continue beyond a flat patio or sidewalk. The projects shown above include formed retaining walls, raised planting beds, steps and multi-level outdoor spaces that turn structural concrete elements into part of the overall landscape design.
These projects require accurate forming and careful coordination of wall heights, planting areas, walking surfaces and drainage. Using the same exposed aggregate finish across several features helps connect the hardscape visually while preserving each feature's purpose.
The appearance of exposed aggregate matters, but the concrete beneath the finish still needs sound construction. Subgrade conditions, stone base, slab thickness, reinforcement and drainage are evaluated for the project before the concrete is placed.
Control joints are planned to help manage normal shrinkage and reduce random cracking. Their placement must support the concrete slab while also fitting the visible layout, curves and decorative details of the finished surface.
Producing a consistent exposed aggregate surface requires timing and experience. The surface is treated during placement, then carefully washed to reveal the aggregate without removing too much cement paste or disturbing the embedded stone.
After curing, an appropriate sealer can help deepen the aggregate's color and protect the surface from moisture and staining. Like other exterior concrete, exposed aggregate should be maintained and kept free from harsh deicing chemicals, especially during its first winter.
Exposed aggregate is one of several ways to personalize exterior concrete. Depending on the architecture and desired appearance, a project may also incorporate colored concrete or stamped concrete.
We help homeowners compare the visual character, texture and practical use of these finishes so the selection suits the property. Exposed aggregate can also be combined with conventional concrete to highlight borders, entrances or selected outdoor living areas.
Our featured exposed aggregate concrete projects include work in Sturgis, Jones and Cassopolis, Michigan, along with LaGrange and Angola, Indiana. We serve homeowners and businesses throughout Southwest Michigan and Northern Indiana.
Explore our location pages for a concrete contractor in Sturgis, concrete contractor in Jones or concrete contractor in Angola.
Every Marc Todd Concrete project is owner-supervised from start to finish. We use quality materials, careful preparation and proven placement and finishing methods. Exposed aggregate is a specialty finish, and our experience helps produce an even exposure across custom shapes, steps and detailed hardscape features.
Contact Marc Todd Concrete for a free estimate on an exposed aggregate patio, sidewalk, entrance, steps or custom hardscape in Southwest Michigan or Northern Indiana. We also complete commercial concrete projects and concrete slabs for residential pole barns, workshops and storage buildings.