How do I choose between stamped concrete and exposed aggregate in NB?

For most New Brunswick homeowners choosing between these two decorative concrete options, exposed aggregate edges out stamped concrete on durability and maintenance requirements in our climate — but stamped concrete wins decisively on visual impact and design flexibility. The right choice depends on how you weigh those factors, where the concrete is located, and how much time you want to spend on maintenance.

Durability in NB conditions favours exposed aggregate. The finish on exposed aggregate is created by removing the surface paste to reveal stone — there is no sealer required to maintain the visual appearance of the stone itself, and the stone does not fade or peel. The texture is inherent to the slab, not a surface coating. Compare this to stamped concrete, where the colour (applied as hardener or through integral pigment) and the sealer that enhances it are surface-dependent. In NB's 150+ annual freeze-thaw cycles, an exposed aggregate surface weathers gracefully. A stamped surface requires proactive sealer maintenance to look good over time.

Maintenance requirements are significantly lower for exposed aggregate. The stone surface does not need annual or biennial sealing to maintain its functional performance — though a penetrating silane/siloxane sealer every 3 to 4 years still benefits exposed aggregate by reducing water absorption. Stamped concrete must be resealed every 1 to 2 years in NB conditions, especially in high-traffic or weather-exposed locations. If you are the type of homeowner who will keep up with maintenance on a schedule, stamped concrete is perfectly viable. If you want to pour it and largely forget it, exposed aggregate is the more forgiving choice.

Winter maintenance favours exposed aggregate. Both surfaces should avoid sodium chloride de-icing salt. But the exposed aggregate texture is rougher and provides better natural traction in winter. The acrylic sealer on stamped concrete can become slippery when wet or icy, which is a safety concern for front steps, porches, and driveways with a slope.

Visual impact and design flexibility strongly favours stamped concrete. You can choose from dozens of patterns (flagstone, cobblestone, slate, wood plank, ashlar), multiple colour combinations, and add borders and accent bands. The customization possibilities are essentially unlimited. Exposed aggregate is more limited — your choices are primarily the aggregate colour and size — but it has a timeless, natural quality that ages beautifully.

Cost is similar — exposed aggregate runs $10 to $16 per square foot installed, versus $14 to $22 for stamped concrete. The price gap reflects the additional labour for stamping, the colour hardener or integral pigment cost, release agent, and sealer.

For driveways and patios in Moncton, Fredericton, Saint John, and elsewhere in NB, either option can look excellent for decades when properly installed. The deciding factor for most NB homeowners is maintenance commitment versus aesthetic ambition. New Brunswick Concrete can connect you with decorative concrete contractors who can show you real local examples of both finishes.