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Honed Concrete Perth

Honed concrete is a type of concrete finish that sits between exposed aggregate and polished concrete. It is ideal for Perth’s outdoor entertaining areas, around pools, across alfrescos, on patios and even in garages.

Honed concrete is smoother and more refined than exposed aggregate, and less reflective than polished concrete. It provides a soft, sophisticated matte surface that holds up under Western Australian conditions.

What is honed concrete? Honed concrete is a concrete that has been mechanically ground back to expose the aggregate and cement, then refined to a smooth matte surface. It involves a similar process to polished concrete, except with the gloss finish. The end product is a soft, light-absorbing surface rather than a reflective one. The result is a refined, contemporary look with subtle texture. It is increasingly becoming a popular choice in Perth’s market for outdoor spaces as it delivers premium aesthetics with comfort on the feet.

Why choose honed concrete for your home in Perth?

BAREFOOT-FRIENDLY SURFACE: The honed concrete has a matte surface that provides barefoot friendly grip, even when wet. This makes it a great option for pool surrounds, outdoor entertaining areas and any area where bare feet meets water.

MODERN AESTHETIC: Honed concrete has a aesthetically modern appearance. It complements minimalist designs, coastal homes and modern renovations.

DURABILITY: Honed concrete is a durable option that can handle Perth’s climate. It works well with UV, heat and pool chemistry without breaking down. A properly sealed and maintained honed concrete pool surround can last over 30 years without major intervention.

FLOOR AND SURFACE DUO: Honed concrete works as both the floor and the surface. Unlike paving or tiles, there’s no grout to maintain, no individual pieces to replace, no joint sealing. It is a cost effective option in the long run, as it acts as both the surface, and the floor finish. Sweep, hose and reseal is really the only maintenance that is required.

OPTION FOR WATER FEATURES: Honed concrete looks exceptional around pool edges and outdoor areas with water features. Its smooth surface is easier on the feet than exposed aggregate, while also being safe underfoot.

  • HONED CONCRETE IN PERTH

    SCROLL RIGHT TO DISCOVER THE PROCESS

  • PRODUCT SELECTION

    We hear out your project scope, ideal design and can discuss with you whether honed concrete is the right option for you. We then discuss with you the colour scheme you are after, and provide you with our suppliers’ details if you want to view samples.

  • SITE PREPARATION

    We consider the specification required, including for new builds and follow the engineers recommendations. For existing builds, we assess the site condition and levelness, and make sure the site is ready for the concrete before the pour.

  • POURING THE CONCRETE

    We work alongside our trusted concrete suppliers, who mix the concrete and deliver to site on the day of the pour. We pour to the project-by-project requirements.

  • THE INITIAL GRIND

    For honed concrete, we use coarse diamond pads to remove the top layer of cement and expose the aggregate, which can be from a light to full exposure.

  • HONING THE CONCRETE

    We then use finer grinding pads which refine the surface from rough to smooth. Unlike polished concrete, the finish stops at matte/honed.

  • DENSIFICATION & SEALING

    We use a chemical densifier that hardens the surface and reduces porosity. This improves and supports stain resistance and longevity. Our last step involves applying a quality penetrating sealer. With pool surrounds, we use sealers suitable for pool water.

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Where honed concrete works best in Perth

  • Pool surrounds: This is our most popular application area, particularly for its grip features combined with premium aesthetics.

  • Alfresco areas: Honed concrete in undercover entertaining area is a perfect choice where you want a refined look without polished gloss. For a polished look, see our polished concrete page.

  • Patios and courtyards: Open outdoor spaces where a smooth matte surface provides a minimalist design.

  • House surrounds and pathways: Honed concrete is a great option for coastal homes with house surrounds and pathways. This is a popular choice often in the Western Suburbs, including Cottesloe, Dalkeith, Swanbourne etc.

  • Indoor to outdoor transitioning: A great option for floor surface indoor that transitions seamlessly to outside.

FAQ

  • Both processes are quite similar as they each involve grinding and exposing the aggregate. Honed concrete stops at a smooth matte finish, without the reflection of polished concrete. There is one extra step with polished concrete, where we produce a glossy, light-reflective surface. Honed is ideal for outdoor and wet areas, whereas polished is usually preferred indoor and undercover areas.

  • Not usually. The honed concrete provides a barefoot friendly surface and is a common choice for pool surrounds around Perth. It is more slip resistant than polished concrete, and more friendly on the feet than exposed aggregate.

  • Honed concrete in Perth typically ranges from $140 to $260+ per square metre. We quote on a project-by-project basis, and depends on the area size, level of aggregate exposure, site conditions, material selection, and any extra work such as excavation or formwork. Contact us for a quote specific to your project and requirements. We aim to get back to you within 24 to 48 hours!

  • A properly installed and maintained honed concrete lasts more than 20-30 years. Proper maintenance, such as regular sealing (more regularly for pool surrounds) extends the life considerably.

  • Sometimes, yes. It all depends on the existing slab, whether it is structurally sound and reasonably level. We will assess the slab before quoting.

  • Honed concrete that is properly sealed resists most household and pool-area staining, such as sunscreen, drinks, leaves and chlorine. Resealing regularly on schedule is the key to stain resisting. Unsealed concrete will likely stain, which is why sealing decorative concrete is key.

  • Honed concrete is a surface and a finish, whereas pavers is just a finish. Honed concrete wins with the following features - no joints to weed or reseal, it is more contemporary and is a continuous surface. We are happy to talk through the comparison for your specific project.

Why choose COLACRETE?

We are a Perth-based concreting business with a family lineage in the trade going back to the 1990s. Colacrete is owner-operated by Eddie, a hands-on concreter with an engineering background. Colacrete is a proud member of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), Masters Builders Association (MBA) and Concrete Institute of Australia (CIA).

Clients love working with Eddie, who is personable, professional and with a keen interest to provide concreting value to our diverse clients.  We provide honed concrete (and other finishes) across residential, commercial and industrial projects throughout Perth and surrounding areas, such as Floreat, Murdoch, Baldivis and Karrinyup.

Contact us today to discuss your honed concrete project. 

You might also be interested in our exposed aggregate concrete, polished concrete (the gloss finish), liquid limestone or normal grey concrete.

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