Sand blasted driveway - any major downsides vs a typical concrete one?

[Lex350]

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After posting on a few forums, I think a top coat is out.
Either push for a re-pour, or sand blast+seal, but get them to guarantee the work. If it starts falling apart a year or two later they do a re-pour cause obviously the slab below the top layer isn't up to par as the tests showed.

Edit: a bit off topic, but how are exposed aggregate driveways in the winter for shoveling and slipperyness? Seems like shoveling would be a pain as it's not as smooth as a broom finish?

They are fine but it does make a difference with what kind of rock is in there. That's why I suggested a repour with the proper formula for exposed rather than just sandblasting it.

[nagooro]

In the end, they are going to sandblast the driveway, if the same issue occurs it'll be a complete removal/re-pour. They sent me the reports from the corehole samples which appear to meet the concrete specifications, which is I guess why they are backtracking from the original re-pour option.

[Dirty_SOHC]

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Get them to rip it out and do it properly. The exposed look you like you won't achieve with the current driveway because the concrete formula is different. The rock used is different.. When you get the new concrete done make sure you apply a sealer to is after.

What is a good sealer for a brushed finished driveway? I have been always afraid that the driveway would bead water which could freeze in winter and make a skating rink...

[never]

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What is a good sealer for a brushed finished driveway? I have been always afraid that the driveway would bead water which could freeze in winter and make a skating rink...

Talk to these guys for a recommendation:

https://www.nca.ca/locations/nca-branches/calgary

[Lex350]

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What is a good sealer for a brushed finished driveway? I have been always afraid that the driveway would bead water which could freeze in winter and make a skating rink...

There is a place called Northland construction supplies that sells a variety of sealers. At my old place I had an exposed driveway and steps. I sealed it every second year. Never had a problem with freezing outside of what a normal driveway might have.

[never]

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There is a place called Northland construction supplies that sells a variety of sealers. At my old place I had an exposed driveway and steps. I sealed it every second year. Never had a problem with freezing outside of what a normal driveway might have.

They are now part of NCA that I linked above.