Exposed aggregate concrete shows off the natural stones mixed into the concrete by removing the top layer of cement paste. Think of a surface covered in small pebbles that creates texture and grip. Stamped concrete, on the other hand, starts as smooth concrete that gets pressed with patterns and coloured to look like brick, stone, or tile.
Both finishes work well in Calgary, but each has strengths and weaknesses. This guide compares the real costs, winter traction, appearance options, maintenance needs, and lifespan you can expect from each finish in our climate.
Quick Answer: When to Choose Each Finish
- Pick exposed aggregate if you want strong traction, a natural stone look, and low slip risk
- Pick stamped concrete if you want patterns/colours that mimic stone or pavers with a smooth feel
- Choose exposed aggregate for steep driveways or high-traffic areas where safety matters most
- Select stamped concrete when you want specific colours and patterns to match your home’s style
Side-by-Side Comparison (Calgary Conditions)
| Feature | Exposed Aggregate | Stamped Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per sq ft (estimate) | $12–18 | $15–22 |
| Traction on ice | Excellent (textured surface) | Good with anti-slip additive, poor without |
| Look & curb appeal | Natural stone appearance, limited colours | Wide pattern/colour variety, mimics expensive materials |
| Best uses | Driveways, sidewalks, pool decks | Patios, decorative walkways, front entries |
| Upkeep & sealing | Reseal every 3–4 years | Reseal every 2–3 years, colour may fade |
| Winter care notes | Handles salt better, rinse in spring | Avoid salt, use sand or ice melt alternatives |
| Typical lifespan | 25–30 years | 20–25 years |
Prices are estimates only and vary based on site conditions, access, and design complexity.
What Each Finish Involves
Exposed Aggregate
Contractors create exposed aggregate by pouring concrete mixed with decorative stones, then washing or brushing away the surface cement paste before it fully hardens. This reveals the aggregate underneath, creating a pebbly texture that looks natural and provides excellent grip.
The stones can range from river rock to crushed granite, with sizes from pea gravel to one-inch pieces. Most Calgary homeowners choose a mix of browns, greys, and tans that complement our natural landscape. You’ll see this finish on driveways throughout established neighbourhoods in Kensington and Mount Royal.
Winter performance makes exposed aggregate popular here. The textured surface grips boots and tires even when icy. You’ll need to seal it every three to four years to prevent water damage from freeze-thaw cycles. Cleaning involves power washing in spring to remove winter grime and any salt residue.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete starts as regular concrete that gets pressed with rubber mats or stamps while still wet. Contractors add colour through the mix or by dusting on colour hardeners and release agents. The stamps create patterns that look like flagstone, slate, brick, or wood planks.
The smooth finish feels comfortable underfoot on patios but needs anti-slip additives for safety in winter. Without these additives, stamped concrete becomes slick when wet or icy. Many contractors now mix in polymer sand or grit to improve traction.
Stamped concrete needs resealing every two to three years to maintain its colour and protect the surface. The sealers also restore the shine that makes patterns pop. Over time, high-traffic areas may show wear in the stamped pattern, especially near doorways.
Calgary-Specific Factors That Matter
Our freeze-thaw cycles test any concrete finish. Water seeps into tiny cracks, freezes, expands, and gradually breaks down the surface. Both finishes need proper drainage sloped away from your house foundation at two percent minimum grade.
Road salt damages decorative concrete faster than plain concrete. The City of Calgary’s snow and ice page recommends using alternatives like sand or calcium magnesium acetate on decorative surfaces. Whatever de-icer you use, rinse it off in spring to prevent surface damage.
Seal your concrete in late spring or early fall when temperatures stay between 10 and 25 degrees Celsius. Avoid sealing in July and August heat, which causes the sealer to dry too fast and leave streaks.
Note that City driveway crossing rules apply if your project connects to the street. The city handles curb cuts and approach work separately, which can add $3,000 to $5,000 beyond your contractor’s quote.
Costs in Calgary (2025 Estimates)
Exposed aggregate typically costs $12 to $18 per square foot installed. A 400-square-foot patio would run $4,800 to $7,200. A standard 600-square-foot double driveway would cost $7,200 to $10,800.
Stamped concrete runs higher at $15 to $22 per square foot because of the extra labour and materials. That same 400-square-foot patio would cost $6,000 to $8,800. The 600-square-foot driveway would be $9,000 to $13,200.
These estimates assume proper base preparation, four-inch thickness, rebar reinforcement, and initial sealing. Complex sites with poor access or extensive grading needs will cost more. Remember that city driveway crossing work happens separately and isn’t included in contractor pricing.
Where Each Finish Shines
Driveways: Exposed aggregate wins for traction and durability under vehicle traffic. The textured surface handles Calgary winters better and hides tire marks. Choose stamped concrete only if you add anti-slip additives and prioritize curb appeal over practicality.
Patios: Stamped concrete creates stunning outdoor living spaces with patterns that complement your home’s architecture. The smooth surface feels better barefoot around pools. Exposed aggregate works well for rustic designs or when you want low maintenance.
Sidewalks and Steps: Building codes often require textured surfaces for sidewalks and steps. Exposed aggregate meets these requirements naturally. If you choose stamped concrete, you’ll need broom finishing on steps for safety and code compliance.
How to Compare Quotes (Checklist)
Use this checklist when reviewing contractor quotes:
□ Base excavation depth (minimum 4 inches for patios, 6 inches for driveways) □ Gravel base compaction method □ Concrete thickness (4 inches minimum) □ Rebar or wire mesh reinforcement included □ Control joint spacing (maximum 10 feet apart) □ Sealer type and number of coats □ Timeline for resealing (should include first reseal schedule) □ Site cleanup and disposal fees □ Written warranty terms (minimum 1 year) □ Insurance coverage verification
FAQs
Which finish lasts longer in Calgary’s climate? Exposed aggregate typically lasts 25 to 30 years with proper sealing. Stamped concrete averages 20 to 25 years because the surface pattern can wear down in high-traffic areas.
Does stamped concrete get slippery in winter? Yes, without anti-slip additives. Ask your contractor to mix polymer sand or broadcasting sand into the sealer. This adds texture without ruining the pattern’s appearance.
How often should I reseal each finish? Reseal exposed aggregate every 3 to 4 years and stamped concrete every 2 to 3 years. Watch for signs like fading colour, water not beading on the surface, or white haze from salt damage.
Can I use salt on my new decorative concrete? Avoid rock salt on both finishes. Use sand, calcium magnesium acetate, or products labelled safe for decorative concrete. Always rinse salt residue in spring to prevent surface scaling.
Will heavy vehicles like RVs damage stamped concrete? Stamped concrete handles regular vehicles fine but may show wear from RVs or work trucks parked long-term. Exposed aggregate better resists heavy loads without showing damage.
Which finish adds more home value? Both add curb appeal, but stamped concrete typically impresses buyers more with its decorative patterns. The key is choosing quality installation over the cheapest quote.
Can I change from one finish to the other later? Not without complete replacement. You can’t stamp existing concrete or expose aggregate after concrete cures. Choose carefully the first time.
Get a Local Recommendation
Ready to choose the best concrete finish for your Calgary home? Tenmen Construction provides detailed, itemized quotes for both exposed aggregate and stamped concrete projects. We serve Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere, and Cochrane with expert installation that handles our tough winters.
Request a free quote to compare your options with accurate pricing for your specific project.
