How Much Does Exposed Aggregate Concrete Cost in Brisbane? (2026 Price Guide)

What Does Exposed Aggregate Concrete Cost in Brisbane?

If you are planning a new driveway, patio, or pool surround in Brisbane, exposed aggregate is one of the most popular concrete finishes — and for good reason. It is durable, slip-resistant, low maintenance, and looks stunning for decades. But how much should you actually expect to pay in 2026?

The short answer: exposed aggregate concrete in Brisbane typically costs between $100 and $160 per square metre, depending on the stone blend, area size, site preparation required, and complexity of the job. That makes it more expensive than plain concrete ($65 to $90 per square metre) but significantly more attractive and longer-lasting.

This guide breaks down exactly what affects the price, what different project sizes typically cost, and how to get the best value for your investment.

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Exposed Aggregate Price Per Square Metre (Brisbane 2026)

The table below shows typical pricing for exposed aggregate concrete in Brisbane and surrounding areas as of 2026. These are installed prices including labour, materials, and standard site preparation.

Finish Type	Price Per m² (Installed)
Plain concrete (broom finish)	$65 – $90
Coloured concrete	$75 – $110
Standard exposed aggregate	$100 – $140
Premium exposed aggregate (custom stone blend)	$130 – $170+
Honed or polished concrete	$100 – $150

Standard exposed aggregate uses common stone blends that are readily available from Brisbane concrete suppliers. Premium exposed aggregate involves custom stone selections — such as specific colours, larger stones, or imported aggregates — which increase both material and labour costs.

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What Does a Typical Exposed Aggregate Project Cost?

To give you a realistic idea of total project costs, here is what Brisbane homeowners typically pay for common exposed aggregate projects in 2026:

Project Type	Typical Size	Estimated Total Cost
Single-car driveway	30 – 40 m²	$3,500 – $5,600
Double-car driveway	50 – 70 m²	$5,500 – $9,800
Large driveway with turning area	80 – 120 m²	$9,000 – $17,000+
Patio or entertaining area	20 – 40 m²	$2,500 – $5,600
Pool surround	25 – 50 m²	$3,000 – $7,500
Pathway or side access	10 – 20 m²	$1,500 – $3,000

These estimates include demolition and removal of existing concrete (if applicable), site preparation and formwork, concrete supply and pouring, exposed aggregate finishing, and initial sealing. Additional costs may apply for complex shapes, steep slopes, retaining walls, or difficult access.

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7 Factors That Affect Exposed Aggregate Cost in Brisbane

1. Area Size

Larger projects generally cost less per square metre because the fixed costs (mobilisation, formwork setup, concrete pump hire) are spread across a bigger area. A 100 m² driveway will typically cost $10 to $20 less per square metre than a 30 m² patio.

2. Stone Blend and Aggregate Type

The type of stone you choose has a significant impact on price. Standard blends using locally sourced river pebbles or crushed granite are the most affordable. Premium options — such as Gympie Gold, Atherton Blue, or custom multi-colour blends — can add $20 to $40 per square metre.

3. Site Preparation and Excavation

If your existing surface needs to be demolished and removed, or if the site requires significant excavation, levelling, or drainage work, this adds to the total cost. A straightforward pour onto prepared ground is considerably cheaper than a job that requires removing an old driveway, re-grading the sub-base, and installing new drainage.

4. Concrete Grade and Thickness

For driveways, a minimum of 100 mm thickness with 25 to 32 MPa concrete is standard. If the driveway needs to support heavy vehicles (caravans, trailers, trucks), a thicker slab with higher-grade concrete and additional reinforcement will be required, increasing the cost by $10 to $25 per square metre.

5. Access Difficulty

If the concrete truck or pump cannot get close to the pour site, the concrete may need to be pumped over longer distances or wheelbarrowed in, which adds labour time and cost. Properties with steep driveways, narrow side access, or rear pours typically cost more.

6. Shape and Complexity

Straight, rectangular pours are the most cost-effective. Curved edges, multiple levels, steps, borders, or integration with garden beds and retaining walls all increase formwork time and labour, adding to the overall cost.

7. Sealing

A quality penetrating sealer is essential to protect your exposed aggregate from staining, moisture damage, and UV fading. Initial sealing is typically included in the quoted price. Re-sealing is recommended every 3 to 5 years and costs approximately $12 to $20 per square metre.

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Exposed Aggregate vs Other Concrete Finishes: Cost Comparison

Choosing the right finish depends on your budget, the look you want, and where the concrete will be used. Here is how exposed aggregate compares to other popular options in Brisbane:

Finish	Cost Per m²	Best For	Durability
Plain broom finish	$65 – $90	Shed slabs, side paths, utility areas	Good
Coloured concrete	$75 – $110	Driveways, patios (modern look)	Good
Exposed aggregate	$100 – $160	Driveways, patios, pool surrounds	Excellent
Stencilled concrete	$100 – $130	Patios, entertaining areas	Good
Honed concrete	$100 – $150	Indoor/outdoor entertaining	Very good
Covercrete (overlay)	$80 – $120	Resurfacing existing concrete	Moderate

Exposed aggregate offers the best combination of durability, slip resistance, and visual appeal for outdoor areas, which is why it remains the most popular premium finish for Brisbane driveways and entertaining areas.

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How to Get the Best Value on Exposed Aggregate in Brisbane

Getting a great result at a fair price comes down to a few practical steps:

Get at least three quotes. Pricing varies significantly between concreters. Make sure each quote includes the same scope — demolition, preparation, concrete grade, stone blend, and sealing — so you are comparing like for like.

Ask to see the actual stone blend. Reputable concreters will show you physical samples or photos of recent jobs using the same blend. The stone selection makes a huge difference to the final appearance.

Check QBCC licensing. In Queensland, any concreting work over $3,300 (including GST) must be carried out by a QBCC-licensed contractor. Always verify the licence before signing a contract.

Ask about drainage. Proper drainage is critical for driveways and patios. A good concreter will assess water flow and ensure the finished surface drains correctly — this prevents pooling, staining, and long-term damage.

Do not choose on price alone. The cheapest quote often means thinner concrete, lower-grade materials, or shortcuts in preparation. Exposed aggregate is a long-term investment — a well-installed driveway will last 25 to 30 years with minimal maintenance.

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Why Brisbane Homeowners Choose Exposed Aggregate

Brisbane's climate is ideal for exposed aggregate concrete. The finish handles Queensland's heat, UV exposure, and heavy summer rain without cracking, fading, or becoming slippery. The natural stone texture provides excellent grip even when wet, making it one of the safest options for pool surrounds and sloped driveways.

The aesthetic appeal is also a major factor. Exposed aggregate adds genuine street appeal and can increase your property value — particularly for driveways, which are the first thing buyers see. With dozens of stone blends available, you can match the finish to your home's colour scheme, from warm golds and creams to cool greys and charcoals.

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Ready for a Free Quote?

At Concrete Concepts Group, we specialise in exposed aggregate driveways, patios, pool surrounds, and pathways across Brisbane and all surrounding areas. Every job is completed by our QBCC-licensed team with a focus on quality preparation, premium materials, and finishes that last.

Call us on 0424 463 268 or get a free quote online to discuss your project. We will visit your property, assess the site, recommend the right stone blend, and provide a detailed written quote — no obligation, no pressure.