Quick answer: Exposed aggregate concrete in Adelaide typically costs $120–$180 per square metre in 2026, depending on the stone blend, area size, site access and sealing. It costs more than plain concrete because of the premium stone and the extra washing, finishing and sealing involved.
Why exposed aggregate costs more
- Premium materials — decorative stone blends cost more than standard mix.
- Extra labour — the surface is washed back and finished by hand.
- Sealing — a quality seal protects the finish and brings out the colour.
What you get for the price
Exposed aggregate is non-slip, hides marks, and looks far more high-end than plain concrete — which is why it's so popular for steep Adelaide Hills driveways, pool surrounds and entertaining areas. Done well, it adds genuine value to the property.
Getting an accurate quote
Stone choice, area and access all move the price, so a site measure is the only way to be sure. We'll show you blend samples and give you a fixed price. See our exposed aggregate service.
Why exposed aggregate costs more than plain concrete
Exposed aggregate sits above plain concrete for three reasons: the decorative stone blends cost more than a standard mix, the surface is washed back and finished by hand within a tight window, and a quality sealer is applied to protect the finish and bring out the colour. On a 50 m² driveway, plain concrete might cost $4,500–$6,500 while the same area in exposed aggregate typically runs $6,000–$9,000 — roughly $1,500–$2,500 more for a finish that is non-slip, hides marks and tyre stains, and genuinely lifts the look (and value) of the home.
What changes the price
- Stone blend — local tan, grey and multi-colour mixes are most affordable; premium imported blends cost more.
- Area and access — larger areas are more efficient per m²; tight or sloped sites add labour.
- Site preparation — excavation, base and any earthworks on a difficult block.
- Sealing and re-sealing — the initial seal is built into the job; re-sealing every few years is a small ongoing cost.
Is exposed aggregate worth it?
For driveways, paths and pool surrounds — especially on the steep, leafy blocks common across the Adelaide Hills — most homeowners find the premium well spent. The textured surface grips when wet or frosty, hides leaf stain and dirt far better than plain concrete, and ages gracefully. Spread over the 30-plus years a well-built driveway should last, the extra upfront cost is modest, and the kerb appeal is immediate. If budget is tight, a coloured or banded finish can give some of the visual lift for less; we are happy to talk through the trade-offs at quote time.
What goes into an exposed aggregate quote
An accurate exposed aggregate price reflects more than the area. We look at the stone blend you like, the site access and slope, the amount of excavation and base work, any earthworks needed, and whether a council crossover is involved. The initial seal is part of the job. Because the finish is washed back and detailed by hand within a tight window, the labour component is higher than plain concrete — which is exactly why an experienced crew matters: a poorly timed wash-back can leave bald patches or an uneven colour that no amount of sealing will fix.
Keeping the cost sensible
Choosing a local stone blend over a premium imported one, keeping the layout simple, and combining the driveway with matching paths or a pool surround in the same pour can all help the budget. As with any concrete, the savings should come from finish and layout choices — never from thinning the slab or skimping on reinforcement.
More questions about exposed aggregate cost
Why is it dearer than plain concrete? Premium stone, hand finishing and sealing. Does it need sealing again later? Yes — re-sealing every few years protects the surface and keeps the colour rich; it is a small ongoing cost. Is it worth it on a steep block? Usually, because the grip and the way it hides marks suit sloping Adelaide Hills driveways particularly well, both for safety and for long-term appearance.