Best Concrete Finishes for Pools in 2026: Honed vs Exposed Aggregate
Blog post Updated: 26/1/2026 by Handmade Concreting
Choosing the right finish for your pool surrounds is one of the most important decisions when designing an outdoor space in Perth. With hot summers, high UV exposure and frequent pool use, your surface needs to be safe, durable and visually appealing.
In 2026, two finishes continue to dominate across Perth homes — honed concrete and exposed aggregate.
Both offer excellent performance, but they suit different styles, budgets and usage needs. In this guide, we compare
honed vs exposed aggregate
pool surrounds in Perth so you can confidently choose the best option for your home.
Table of Contents
- Why Concrete Pool Finishes Matter in Perth
- What Is Honed Concrete?
- What Is Exposed Aggregate?
- Honed vs Exposed Aggregate: Key Differences
- Which Finish Is Safer Around Pools?
- Which Finish Lasts Longer in Perth Conditions?
- Design & Style Considerations
- Cost Comparison (Perth 2026)
- Which One Should You Choose?
- FAQs
1. Why Concrete Pool Finishes Matter in Perth
Pool surrounds in Perth must handle:
- Strong UV exposure
- Chlorine and saltwater
- Heavy foot traffic
- Wet, slippery conditions
That’s why choosing the right concrete finish is critical. A poor choice can lead to
slipping hazards, premature wear, and higher maintenance costs.
2. What Is Honed Concrete?
Honed concrete is created by grinding the surface layer of concrete to reveal the fine aggregate beneath. It is then sealed to produce a smooth, modern, matte finish.
This finish is commonly used in:
- Alfresco areas
- Pool surrounds
- Luxury outdoor spaces
Key Benefits of Honed Concrete
- Clean, architectural appearance
- Comfortable underfoot
- Customisable finish level
- Anti-slip sealers available
- Seamless modern design
Honed concrete is especially popular in suburbs like
Floreat, City Beach and Mount Lawley, where modern home design is a priority.
3. What Is Exposed Aggregate?
Exposed aggregate is created by washing away the top layer of cement to reveal the natural stones within the mix. This produces a textured, decorative finish.
It is commonly used for:
- Driveways
- Pathways
- Pool surrounds
Key Benefits of Exposed Aggregate
- Naturally slip-resistant surface
- Strong durability
- Decorative stone appearance
- Ideal for high-traffic areas
- Long-lasting performance
This finish is widely used in family homes across
Joondalup, Hillarys and Scarborough.
4. Honed vs Exposed Aggregate: Key Differences
When comparing the two finishes, the main differences come down to texture, appearance and application.
Honed concrete offers a smooth, refined look, making it ideal for modern homes and alfresco areas where design is a priority.
Exposed aggregate provides a more textured, natural surface, which enhances grip and durability in high-use outdoor areas.
Safety is one of the most important considerations for pool surrounds.
- Honed concrete can be made slip-resistant with anti-slip additives in the sealer.
- Exposed aggregate is naturally textured, providing built-in traction.
For families with children or heavily used pool areas, exposed aggregate is often chosen for its inherent grip. However, properly sealed honed concrete can achieve excellent safety ratings while maintaining a smoother appearance.
6. Which Finish Lasts Longer in Perth Conditions?
Both finishes are extremely durable when installed correctly.
However:
- Exposed aggregate tends to perform slightly better under heavy wear due to its textured surface.
- Honed concrete offers excellent longevity when sealed and maintained properly.
In Perth’s coastal suburbs such as Mindarie and Scarborough, both finishes perform well when sealed regularly to protect against salt air and moisture.
7. Design & Style Considerations
Your choice often comes down to the style you want to achieve.
Choose Honed Concrete If You Want:
- A modern, high-end aesthetic
- Seamless indoor–outdoor flow
- Minimalist design
Choose Exposed Aggregate If You Want:
- A natural stone look
- More texture and visual contrast
- A traditional outdoor finish
8. Which One Should You Choose?
Both honed concrete and exposed aggregate are excellent choices for pool surrounds in Perth.
Choose honed concrete if your priority is a clean, modern aesthetic that blends seamlessly with your home.
Choose exposed aggregate if you want maximum grip, durability and a textured outdoor look.
If you’re unsure, working with an experienced Perth concreter can help you match the right finish to your home, lifestyle and budget.
9. FAQs
Have a question or need some more info and don't see it below feel free to reach out to the team and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Is honed concrete slippery around pools?
Not when sealed correctly. Anti-slip additives can be added to improve traction, making it safe for pool surrounds.
Is exposed aggregate better than honed concrete?
It depends on your priorities. Exposed aggregate offers more natural grip, while honed concrete provides a smoother, more modern finish.
Which concrete finish stays cooler in Perth?
Lighter coloured finishes in both honed and exposed aggregate tend to stay cooler underfoot in summer.
How long do concrete pool surrounds last?
With proper installation and maintenance, both finishes can last 25–30 years or more.
10. Final Thoughts
When it comes to concrete pool surrounds in Perth, both honed concrete and exposed aggregate remain top choices in 2026.
The right option depends on your design preferences, safety requirements and how you plan to use your outdoor space.
If you’re planning a new pool area or upgrading an existing one, Handmade Concreting can help you choose a finish that delivers both durability and style.
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