Exposed Aggregate Driveways vs Standard Concrete in 2026 — What’s Best for Perth Homes?
Blog post Updated: 9/02/2026 by Handmade Concreting
If you’re planning a new driveway or replacing an old one in Perth, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to choose exposed aggregate or standard (plain) concrete.
At first glance, standard concrete may seem like the cheaper, simpler option. But when you factor in Perth’s climate, long-term durability, heat performance and appearance, the difference between these two finishes becomes much clearer.
In this 2026 guide, we compare
exposed aggregate driveways vs
standard concrete based on
real-world performance in WA conditions, not just upfront cost.
Table of Contents
- What’s the Difference Between Exposed Aggregate and Standard Concrete?
- Why the Choice Matters for Perth Driveways
- Exposed Aggregate Driveways: Pros & Cons
- Standard Concrete Driveways: Pros & Cons
- Durability & Lifespan Compared
- Heat & Slip Resistance in WA Conditions
- Cost Comparison in Perth (2026 Guide)
- Which Driveway Finish Adds More Value?
- Common Mistakes Perth Homeowners Make
- Expert Advice from Handmade Concreting
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict
1. What’s the Difference Between Exposed Aggregate and Standard Concrete?
Both finishes use a similar concrete base, but the surface treatment is what sets them apart.
- Standard concrete is finished smooth with a trowel and left plain (or lightly coloured).
- Exposed aggregate has the surface cement washed back to reveal natural stone, creating a textured, decorative finish.
That surface difference has a big impact on
traction, heat performance, durability and long-term appearance.
2. Why the Choice Matters for Perth Driveways
Driveways in Perth must handle:
- Extreme summer heat and UV exposure
- Expansive WA soils
- Heavy vehicle traffic
- Coastal salt air (in many suburbs)
- High visibility at the front of the home
Choosing the wrong finish can lead to slippery surfaces, heat issues, cracking or faster wear.
3. Exposed Aggregate Driveways: Pros & Cons
âś… Pros
- Extremely durable under vehicle traffic
- Naturally slip resistant
- Better heat performance with lighter stone blends
- Wide range of colours and textures
- Strong kerb appeal and resale value
- Low long-term maintenance
⚠️ Cons
- Higher upfront cost than standard concrete
- Requires experienced installation for even exposure
For most Perth homes, exposed aggregate is the best all-round driveway finish.
👉 Learn more about exposed aggregate driveways in Perth and available stone blends.
4. Standard Concrete Driveways: Pros & Cons
âś… Pros
- Lower initial cost
- Simple, clean appearance
- Faster installation
⚠️ Cons
- Slippery when wet
- Shows stains, tyre marks and cracking more easily
- Limited visual appeal
- Darkens and heats up quickly in summer
- Lower resale appeal
Standard concrete is usually best suited to
utility driveways or budget builds, not feature front driveways.
5. Durability & Lifespan Compared
When installed correctly:
- Exposed aggregate driveways often last 25–30+ years
- Standard concrete driveways typically show visible wear much sooner
The exposed stone in aggregate concrete protects the surface from abrasion, whereas smooth concrete wears directly at the cement layer.
6. Heat & Slip Resistance in WA Conditions
Heat Performance
- Light-coloured exposed aggregate stays noticeably cooler
- Standard concrete (especially darker tones) absorbs more heat
- Heat retention is a major issue for north-facing driveways
Slip Resistance
- Exposed aggregate provides natural traction
- Standard concrete becomes slippery when wet
- Safety is especially important on sloping driveways
In WA conditions, exposed aggregate performs better in both areas.
7. Cost Comparison in Perth (2026 Guide)
| Finish | Typical Cost (Per m2) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Concrete | $90 - $110 | Budget Option |
| Exposed Aggregate | $120 - $180 | Best Long Term Value |
While exposed aggregate costs more upfront, it usually offers
better value over the life of the driveway.
8. Which Driveway Finish Adds More Value?
From buyer and agent feedback across Perth:
- Exposed aggregate significantly improves kerb appeal
- Plain concrete is often seen as “basic”
- Decorative driveways help homes stand out
For renovations, upgrading from standard concrete to exposed aggregate can noticeably improve resale appeal.
9. Common Mistakes Perth Homeowners Make
From real site experience, the most common errors include:
- Choosing standard concrete to save short-term costs
- Selecting dark finishes in full sun
- Underestimating driveway slope and drainage
- Skipping proper base preparation
- Choosing a finish based purely on photos
These mistakes often cost more to fix later.
10. Expert Advice from Handmade Concreting
From installing driveways across Perth, our experience shows:
- Exposed aggregate consistently outperforms standard concrete
- Preparation quality matters more than finish choice
- Lighter aggregates age best in WA sun
- Most driveway issues come from shortcuts, not materials
Choosing the right finish upfront saves time, money and stress long-term.
11. 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 worth the extra cost for driveways?
Yes — especially for Perth conditions and long-term durability.
Does standard concrete crack more easily?
Cracking is more visible and noticeable on smooth concrete.
Which finish is safer when wet?
Exposed aggregate provides far better traction.
Can standard concrete be sealed to improve performance?
Yes, but it still won’t match exposed aggregate for grip or appearance.
12. Final Verdict: Exposed Aggregate vs Standard Concrete (2026)
For Perth homes in 2026, exposed aggregate is the superior driveway finish in almost every scenario. While standard concrete may suit budget or low-visibility areas, exposed aggregate delivers better durability, safety, heat performance and long-term value.
If you’re still weighing up other driveway options, our guide to concrete driveway finishes for Perth homes in 2026 breaks down all the best choices for new builds and renovations.
👉 For expert advice on exposed aggregate driveways in Perth, speak with Handmade Concreting today.
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