Exposed Aggregate Concrete

Real stone, revealed by hand.

Exposed aggregate is concrete with the top layer washed away to reveal the stone inside. It’s grippy, hard-wearing and hides dirt better than any other finish — which is why it’s on so many Gold Coast driveways, paths and pool decks. We pour it anywhere, not just driveways.

Often chosen with exposed aggregate driveways, honed concrete, concrete sealing & maintenance.

Typical job: 3–6 days · Site measure: free

What’s included

Aggregate blends to compare on site before you choose
Base preparation, reinforcement and formwork to suit the area
Pour with surface retarder
Wash-off at the right moment and acid clean
Penetrating or gloss sealer

Finish options

Mixed river stone — Warm tan, cream and slate-grey stones washed from local quarries.
Light coastal pebble — Paler stone that stays cooler underfoot.
Charcoal matrix — Dark oxide base with contrasting stone.

Specification

Stone size	7–14 mm graded
Slab depth	100 mm paths and patios, 125 mm under vehicles
Sealer	Matte penetrating or wet-look gloss, with anti-slip grit where needed
Reseal	Every 2–3 years

What affects the price

Every job is priced after a free site measure. Your fixed, itemised written quote shows each of these:

Stone size and colour blend
Washed or honed exposure
Where it is used — path, patio or pool
Sealer and maintenance plan

Guides: Exposed aggregate vs plain concrete, The best non-slip concrete finish for a pool surround, How to clean and reseal decorative concrete

Exposed Aggregate Concrete questions, answered

Where can exposed aggregate be used?

Almost anywhere outdoors: driveways, paths, patios, pool surrounds and entries. Indoors, a honed finish is usually more comfortable.

Does the stone come loose?

Not when it’s done properly. We wash off at the right time and seal the surface, which locks the stone in place.

Can exposed aggregate be used inside the house?

Yes, usually as a honed or polished exposed finish rather than the rough washed texture, which is uncomfortable underfoot indoors and harder to clean.

Is exposed aggregate good for pool areas?

It is popular around pools because the texture grips well when wet. Smaller, rounded pebbles are kinder to bare feet than large or angular stone.

What’s the difference between washed and honed exposed aggregate?

Washed aggregate shows the rounded tops of the stone with a textured surface. Honed aggregate is ground flat to slice through the stones, giving a smooth, terrazzo-like look.