YOUR LOCAL CONCRETING PARTNERExposed Aggregate Concrete Perth
Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative concrete finish. The process involves removing the surface layer to reveal and expose the aggregates, typically gravel, pebbles, crushed stone or other decorative stone. The end product is a textured, slip-resistant surface with depth and a natural appearance and complements both modern and traditional homes.
It is our most popular decorative concrete finish options in Perth, and is commonly used for driveways, pathways, patios and pool surrounds. No two pours look identical, which is part of the appeal of a natural material. Not only does it deliver a high-end look, but it also holds up to the demands of the Western Australian climate.
Why choose exposed aggregate for your home in Perth?
Exposed aggregate is not only beautiful, it is also practical. Here are some of the features:
SLIP RESISTANCE: Exposed aggregate is a textured surface, which provides useful and reliable grip, even when wet. It serves as a smart choice for pool surrounds, pathways and areas exposed to water.
DURABILITY: When installed and maintained correctly including correct pour and seal, exposed aggregate is highly resistant to heavy foot traffic, vehicles, sun exposure and the heat of Perth summers. This makes it a durable option for Perth conditions.
LOW MAINTENANCE: Exposed aggregate requires minimal maintenance. We recommend periodic pressure cleaning and reseal which is generally all that’s needed to keep it looking its best. Unlike other products on the market, exposed aggregate does not require regular sealing of joints, individual paver replacement, weeding between gaps etc.
VERSATILITY: There are a wide range of aggregate types, stone sizes and base colours available, which can be tailored to suit really any architectural style or colour scheme. On our observations, light limestone-grey suits coastal homes, charcoal granite blends work with modern homes, and warmer tones complements traditional brick.
ADDS VALUE: Exposed aggregate concrete to driveways and outdoor areas are considered a luxury feature of a home, which contribute to perceived property value.
Aggregate colours & stones - popular Perth choices
The aggregate is what gives the finish its character. Common selections we see in Perth include:
Coastal whites and creams: a light exposed aggregate scheme gives a Hamptons style feel. We find these suit beach style homes, and commonly see them popular among our clients in Cottesloe, Scarborough, Sorrento, Hillarys and City Beach. This is also a popular choice with heritage style houses, such as in areas of Fremantle.
Charcoal and granite blacks: This selection is bold and gives off a modern feel which suit dark facades and contemporary homes. These are quite common among our clients in Mount Pleasant, Applecross, Floreat, Subiaco, and East Fremantle.
Honey and warm quartz: Beige based with earthy and traditional tones that suit established homes and particular red-faced brick. This is a popular selection for our clients in Claremont, Dalkeith and Mount Lawley.
Mixed pebble blends: Multi-tonal blends that have a versatile application with a more natural, organic look. These blends are popular and ideal for pool surrounds and outdoor entertaining areas. It is a popular choice for new establishments, and popular among our clients for areas such as Success, Carine, Canning Vale and Riverton.
Where exposed aggregate is most often used
Concrete driveways: The most common application by a mile!
Concrete pool surrounds: The slip resistance of it makes it an ideal choice.
Concrete footpaths: Pathways through gardens and side passages.
Outdoor living areas: Alfrescos, courtyards and entertaining spaces.
FAQ
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Exposed aggregate concrete typically lasts 25-40 years, subject to the quality of installation and regular resealing, cleaning and maintenance.
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No, the textured surface of the exposed aggregate provides a strong grip, even when wet. This is why it is a popular choice around pools and on outdoor pathways. It is significantly less slippery than smooth concrete or polished finishes.
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Exposed aggregate concrete in Perth typically ranges from $110 to $200+ per square metre. Pricing is on a project-by-project basis, and depends on the area, site conditions, material selection, and any extra work such as excavation or formwork. Smaller areas with difficult access generally sit at the upper range of the square metre scale, and larger areas such as large driveways with standard aggregate selections sit closer to the lower end. Contact us for a quote specific to your project and requirements. We aim to get back to you within 24 to 48 hours!
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For a typical residential driveway, the actual construction time for the concrete is usually between one to three days. Site prep on day one, pour on day two, and finish on day three.
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The choice and options are broad. They typically range from pale, neutral and cream tones, to charcoal, warm and mixed blends. Aggregate sizes typically range from 7mm to 14mm. You can view samples from our suppliers (located in Bibra Lake, East Perth and Osborne Park) before you lock in any decision.
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Yes. The initial seal is part of our scope of works when installing exposed aggregate concrete. Subsequent resealing is recommended every few years, to protect it against staining, and to keep the colour looking fresh. Skipping resealing is the most common reason that some exposed aggregate jobs lose their look prematurely.
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Typically yes. Minor cracks and chips can usually be filled and disguised with a colour-matched repair compound. Larger cracks need to be assessed and may require sectional replacement, but full replacement of an entire driveway from a single crack is rare.
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When there is an existing exposed aggregate on the property, we can take a sample and work with our suppliers to find the closest available mix. Perfect matches across seperate pours are difficult as minor variation is normal. But a close visual match is achievable in most cases.
Why choose COLACRETE?
We are a Perth-based concreting business with a team of concreting professionals. Our director, Eddie, grew up in a concreting family in Fremantle, has 20 years hands-on concreting experience, and comes from an engineering background, having worked as an engineer for multiple years on major projects for tier one companies across Perth. Colacrete is a member of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), Masters Builders Association (MBA) and Concrete Institute of Australia (CIA).
Eddie is known to be friendly, professional and with a keen interest to provide value to our vast range of clients. We work across residential, commercial and industrial projects throughout Perth and surrounding areas, such as Carine, East Fremantle, Dalkeith, Applecross and Cannington.
Contact us today to discuss your exposed aggregate project.
You might also be interested in our honed concrete (a smoother decorative alternative), polished concrete (the gloss finish), or normal grey concrete.
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