Page 74 - Masonry and Concrete

Concrete Construction Techniques
73
CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUES

FIGURE 3-34C
Embedding aggregate for exposed aggregate finish. (Photo courtesy PCA).

grooves carefully with a small, stiff-bristled brush to bristled remove
any burrs or particles of concrete that remain.
In warm climates where winter freezing is not a problem, you can
apply a rock salt texture to concrete. After troweling the surface
smooth, scatter rock salt crystals evenly over the surface at a rate of 3
to 6 lbs. per 100 sq. ft. Roll a length of PVC pipe across the concrete,
pressing the salt into the surface until only the tops of the crystals are
exposed. After curing the concrete for seven days, wash and brush the
surface to dissolve the salt, leaving a pattern of pits or holes that
resembles travertine marble. In cold climates, water that freezes in
these holes will expand and damage the surface, so rock salt finishes
should be used only in areas that are not subject to winter freezing.
Pattern stamped finishes can create the look of masonry pavers in
concrete. Special stamping tools can be rented or texture mats pur-
chased in a variety of patterns from bricks to slate flagstones (Figure 3-
36). For this type of work, the maximum aggregate size in the concrete
3
should not be greater than 8 in. After the surface has been troweled
once, the stamping pads are pressed into the concrete surface, forming
impressions that resemble paver joints. If the concrete is also colored

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