Decorative Concrete Perth – Exposed Aggregate, Honed & Coloured Concrete Explained (2025 Guide)
Blog post Updated: 1/12/2025 by Handmade Concreting
Decorative concrete is one of the most popular ways to elevate driveways, patios, pool surrounds and outdoor living areas in Perth. With durability, modern styling and WA-ready performance, exposed aggregate, honed concrete and coloured concrete give homeowners beautiful finishes that last for decades.
In this complete 2025 guide, we break down each decorative concrete option so you can confidently choose the right finish for your home.
Table of Contents
- What Is Decorative Concrete?
- Why Decorative Concrete Is Popular in Perth
- Exposed Aggregate Concrete
- Honed Concrete
- Coloured Concrete
- Cost Guide: Perth 2025
- Performance in WA Climate
- Installation Process
- Maintenance Requirements
- Comparison Table
- Perth Case Study
- Why Choose Handmade Concreting
- FAQs
- Request a Free Quote
1. What Is Decorative Concrete?
Decorative concrete refers to concrete finishes designed to enhance the appearance of outdoor and indoor areas while also improving durability. Instead of a plain grey slab, homeowners can choose textured, smooth, coloured or stone-revealing finishes that complement their overall design.
The most common decorative concrete options used in Perth are:
Each offers a unique look and performance level, making them ideal for different spaces, styles and budgets.
2. Why Decorative Concrete Is Popular in Perth
WA’s harsh climate makes decorative concrete a brilliant long-term investment. Homeowners often choose it because it handles:
- High UV exposure
- Coastal salt air (from places like Hillarys, Scarborough, Mindarie)
- Hot summer temperatures
- High-traffic driveways
- Clay and sand-based soils
Decorative concrete also suits Perth’s modern architectural styles — from Hamptons-inspired homes to minimalist coastal builds.
3. Exposed Aggregate Concrete Perth
Exposed aggregate remains Perth’s most sought-after decorative concrete finish thanks to its natural stone appearance and outstanding durability.
What It Is
A concrete mix where the top layer is washed back to expose the stones beneath — usually granite, quartz, or river pebbles sourced from premium local suppliers like Limecrete, Geostone, WA Premix, Boral and more.
Key Benefits
- Extremely durable for driveways
- Naturally slip-resistant
- High-end, customisable look
- Excellent for pool areas
- UV and wear resistant when sealed
- Available in hundreds of colour variations
Best Applications
- Driveways
- Pool surrounds
- Pathways
- Alfresco and patio areas
- Steps and entry landings
4. Honed Concrete Perth
Honed concrete delivers a smooth, matte, premium appearance ideal for modern outdoor living.
What It Is
A mechanically ground version of exposed aggregate that removes the rough texture, resulting in a sleek finish that feels comfortable underfoot.
Key Benefits
- Modern architectural aesthetic
- Perfect around pools and alfrescos
- Smooth, refined look with visible stone
- Stain resistant when sealed
- Comfortable bare-foot surface
Best Applications
- Alfresco areas
- Patios
- Pool surrounds
- Walkways
- Entry points
5. Coloured Concrete Perth
Coloured concrete offers excellent value for money while still offering a decorative finish.
What It Is
Concrete mixed with iron oxide pigments to create an even colour throughout the entire slab.
Key Benefits
- Cost-effective decorative option
- Solid, consistent colour
- Versatile for modern or classic home styles
- Complements driveways, paths and garages
- Can be enhanced with sealing
Best Applications
- Driveways
- Pathways
- Side areas
- Shed slabs
- Entryways
6. Cost Guide: Decorative Concrete Perth (2025)
| Finish | Typical Perth Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exposed Aggregate | $110 - $160/m2 | Premium look & durability |
| Honed Concrete | $130 - $170/m2 | Grinding + sealing adds cost |
| Coloured Concrete | $90 - $130/m2 | Budget-friendly decorative finish |
These are guide ranges only — request a tailored quote for accurate pricing.
7. How Each Finish Performs in WA Climate
High UV Exposure
Coastal Suburbs (Salt Air)
Honed and exposed aggregate outperform pavers due to lower erosion and no jointing sand.
Heat Retention
Choose lighter mixes for pool surrounds and alfresco areas.
Clay-Based Suburbs
Proper compaction and reinforcement prevent movement and cracking.
8. Installation process
1. Site Preparation
Removal of old materials, ground compaction, levelling.
2. Formwork & Reo Steel
Edge forming and reinforcement for structural integrity.
3. Concrete Pour
Premium Perth mixes from Limecrete, WA Premix, Geostone, etc.
4. Finishing Method
Depending on finish: exposed wash-off, honing, oxide mixing, etc.
5. Curing
Ensures long-term strength.
6. Sealing
Protects from UV, stains, and wear — essential in Perth climate.
9. Maintenance Requirements
- Reseal every 2–4 years
- Pressure wash annually
- Avoid acidic cleansers
- Treat small cracks early
- Keep sealed surfaces clean from oils and fertilisers
10. Decorative Concrete Comparison Table
| Feature | Exposed Aggregate | Honed Concrete | Coloured Concrete |
|---|---|---|---|
| Look | Natural stone texture | Smooth, premium | Solid colour |
| Slip Resistance | High | Medium–High | Medium |
| Heat Comfort | Medium | High (with light mixes) | Medium |
| Maintenance | Low | Medium | Low |
| Best Areas | Driveways, pools | Alfresco, pools | Driveways, paths |
| Cost | $$–$$$ | $$$ | $$ |
11. Perth Case Study – Honed Concrete Pool Surround (Duncraig)
A recent Handmade Concreting project in Duncraig involved transforming an ageing pool surround into a sleek, modern outdoor space using a honed concrete finish from a premium Limecrete mix.
The Result
- Smooth, refined surface ideal for barefoot comfort
- Excellent slip resistance with anti-slip additives
- Contemporary, resort-style look that brightened the entire backyard
- Seamless integration between the pool area and alfresco
- Easy-clean, low-maintenance finish perfect for WA summers
This type of honed concrete upgrade has become extremely popular across Perth’s northern suburbs, especially for homeowners wanting a premium, architectural pool surround that performs beautifully in WA’s climate.
12. Why Choose Handmade Concreting
Handmade Concreting is a trusted Perth concreter with 10+ years of experience specialising in premium decorative finishes. We use only high-quality local mixes and provide exceptional workmanship for every project.
Clients choose us because we offer:
- Local WA expertise
- Professional finish quality
- Honest communication
- Premium suppliers (Limecrete, Geostone, WA Premix)
- Highly experienced team
- Beautiful, long-lasting results
13. 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 exposed aggregate slippery?
No — when sealed properly, it offers excellent slip resistance.
Does honed concrete get hot?
Lighter stones stay cool underfoot, even in WA summer.
How long does decorative concrete last?
With the right preparation and sealing, 25–40+ years.
Do these finishes need sealing?
Yes — sealing protects against UV, stains and moisture.
Which finish is best for pool surrounds?
Exposed or honed concrete with anti-slip additives.
14. Request A Free Quote
Ready to upgrade your driveway, alfresco or pool area with high-quality decorative concrete?
Request a free quote from Handmade Concreting today.
View our project gallery
for inspiration.
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