A broom (brushed) finish is produced by dragging a stiff brush across the concrete surface while it's still workable, leaving a textured, slightly rough surface. It provides grip and is the standard for driveways, pathways, and any outdoor surface where slip resistance matters. A steel trowel finish is worked smooth (flat and hard) and is common for internal slabs that will have a floor covering, garage and workshop floors, and anywhere you want a clean surface without texture.

Standard grey concrete is the most affordable concreting option. As a guideline, it typically ranges from $85/m2 to $170/m2. We price based on a project-by-project basis, and is subject to site access, site preparation requirements, the size of the area, the reinforcement requirements, material selection etc. Smaller jobs are often on the higher end of the sqm rate. For a precise quote, get in touch with us. We usually provide our prices within 24 to 48 hours, and can quote based on drawings and specs, or can come out to site and do a free measure and quote.

Generally, initial set happens within hours of the pour, no foot traffic for 24 to 48 hours, no vehicle traffic for 7 days and full structural strength at 28 days. In Perth's summer heat, curing is particularly important, concrete can dry too fast and surface crack if not properly cured.

All concrete moves slightly as it expands and contracts with temperature. We cannot guarantee against cracking. Hairline cracking is normal and not structural. We do our best to control cracking through proper slab depth, appropriate reinforcement for the load, and saw-cut control joints placed at correct intervals. Major structural cracking is rare with a properly designed and installed slab.

No, standard grey concrete does not require sealing to perform its structural function. Sealing is usually to preserve and maintain the appearance of decorative finishes. For standard grey concrete, sealing improves stain resistance (oil, grease, tyre marks on driveways), and reduces surface dusting. For driveways and high-use areas, we generally recommend a penetrating sealer as a worthwhile add-on. For structural slabs that will be covered, sealing is unnecessary.

For standard grey driveways and footpaths, the concrete is typically 100mm with mesh reinforcement. For garage slabs, the concrete is also 100mm, with additional reinforcement where heavy vehicles will be parked. For house slabs and structural footings, the thickness and reinforcement requirements are dictated and specified by an engineer. For slabs, we commonly see the thickness between 100 to 150mm, and it usually depends on factors such as soil conditions.

Viewed over a 20 year period, concrete driveways and paths typically out perform pavers. With concrete, there is no need for weed removal, no joint maintenance like with pavers, and no need for individual paver replacement. There is also fewer trip hazards (no uneven edges from settling like with pavers) and concrete has a more contemporary look and feel. On the other hand, pavers offer easier individual repair (although the availability of the paver may prove difficult if the replacement is years after the initial lay, and pavers also offer more design flexibility.

Let us know as soon as possible when your job is ready so that we can secure your booking in. We generally require between one to three weeks notice for smaller jobs, and about a month for larger jobs to secure a spot and make sure our concrete suppliers have availability.