Exposed aggregate is the most popular decorative concrete finish on the Gold Coast — and for good reason. It combines the natural beauty of stone and pebble with the structural strength of reinforced concrete, creating surfaces that are both visually striking and built to handle coastal conditions. Whether you are upgrading a tired driveway or designing a new outdoor entertaining area, exposed aggregate delivers a premium result that ages gracefully in the subtropical climate. Concreters Gold Coast specialises in exposed aggregate installations across driveways, patios, pathways, and pool surrounds throughout the region.
What We Offer
Exposed aggregate works by removing the top layer of cement paste from freshly poured concrete to reveal the decorative stone beneath. The result is a textured, natural-looking surface with excellent grip and visual depth. Our exposed aggregate services include:
- Custom stone and pebble blends — Choose from a wide range of natural aggregates including quartz, granite, river pebble, and crushed basalt. We help you select a blend that complements your home’s exterior, landscaping, and overall colour palette.
- Concrete driveways — The most common application. Exposed aggregate driveways are the go-to choice for Gold Coast homeowners looking for a premium finish that handles vehicle traffic, UV exposure, and coastal salt air without fading or deteriorating.
- Patios and entertaining areas — Exposed aggregate creates a sophisticated outdoor surface that pairs naturally with timber, stone, and planted garden areas.
- Pathways and side access — A textured aggregate path provides safe, slip-resistant access around your property in all weather conditions.
- Pool surrounds — When combined with appropriate non-slip aggregate selections, exposed aggregate meets the P5 slip-resistance rating required for pool areas.
We also apply high-quality penetrating sealers to every exposed aggregate surface we install. Sealing protects the stone colour from UV bleaching, prevents staining from oil or organic matter, and makes ongoing cleaning straightforward.
Our Process
- Consultation and blend selection — During your free on-site visit, we discuss finish options and show you physical aggregate samples so you can see and feel the stone before committing. We measure the area and assess site conditions including access, drainage, and soil.
- Site preparation — Old surfaces are removed if necessary. The sub-grade is excavated, compacted, and topped with road base to provide a stable, well-drained foundation.
- Formwork and reinforcement — Steel or timber formwork defines the edges and shape. Reinforcing mesh (typically SL72) is placed on bar chairs within the slab.
- Concrete pour with aggregate blend — The concrete is mixed with your selected aggregate blend and poured into the formwork. Timing is critical — the surface needs to be worked while the concrete is still plastic.
- Surface retarder and wash — A chemical surface retarder is applied to the freshly finished surface. After a controlled curing period (typically overnight), the top layer of cement paste is pressure-washed away to expose the stone beneath. This step requires experience and precise timing to achieve a consistent, even exposure depth.
- Sealing and handover — Once the surface is fully cured (usually 7-14 days), we apply a penetrating sealer to lock in the colour and protect the surface. You receive care instructions including resealing recommendations (every 3-5 years).
Why Choose Us for Exposed Aggregate
The quality of an exposed aggregate finish depends almost entirely on the installer’s technique and timing. Getting the wash depth right, achieving consistent exposure across a large area, and avoiding patchy or over-exposed sections requires hands-on experience that cannot be rushed. Our team has completed hundreds of exposed aggregate projects across the Gold Coast, and we understand how local conditions — particularly the heat and humidity — affect curing times and retarder performance.
We also work with reputable local concrete suppliers to source consistent, high-quality aggregate blends. This matters because aggregate colour and size can vary between batches, and we take steps to ensure uniformity across your entire project.
Gold Coast properties face particular challenges from salt-laden air and intense UV. The sealers we use are specifically selected for subtropical coastal environments, providing UV stability and moisture resistance that keep your exposed aggregate looking sharp for years.
Pricing Guide
Exposed aggregate concrete on the Gold Coast typically starts from around $120 per square metre, with prices ranging up to $180 per m² or more depending on the stone blend, project size, and site preparation required. Premium blends with larger or imported stone generally sit at the higher end of this range.
Your total project cost is influenced by factors including old concrete removal, excavation depth, access for concrete trucks, and the complexity of the layout (curves, borders, and multi-level areas add to the price). For a more detailed breakdown, see our exposed aggregate cost guide for the Gold Coast. We provide detailed, itemised quotes so you know exactly what you are paying for. Contact us for a free on-site assessment and written quote tailored to your property.
