Exposed Aggregate Perth: Pros, Cons & Best Uses for 2026
Blog post Updated: 9/12/2025 by Handmade Concreting
Exposed aggregate remains Perth’s most popular decorative concrete finish heading into 2026 — and for good reason. It’s durable, stylish, slip resistant and perfectly suited to WA’s harsh climate. Whether you're renovating or building new, understanding the benefits and best applications of exposed aggregate will help you achieve a long-lasting, premium result.
This guide breaks down everything Perth homeowners need to know — from costs and durability to climate performance, maintenance and our expert installation process.
Table of Contents
- What Is Exposed Aggregate?
- Why Exposed Aggregate Is Popular in Perth
- Pros of Exposed Aggregate
- Cons of Exposed Aggregate
- Best Uses for WA Homes
- Exposed Aggregate vs Other Concrete Finishes (2026)
- How It Performs in WA’s Climate
- Installation Process
- Maintenance Guide – 2026
- Perth Case Study
- Exposed Aggregate Cost Guide 2026
- Why Choose Handmade Concreting
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Get a Free Quote
1. What Is Exposed Aggregate?
Exposed aggregate is a premium decorative concrete finish where the top layer of cement paste is removed to reveal the stones beneath. These stones may include granite, quartz, basalt and river pebbles sourced from leading Perth suppliers such as:
- Limecrete
- WA Premix
- Geostone (Holcim)
- Boral
It’s visually striking, long-lasting and highly resistant to traffic and weather — making it perfect for outdoor areas across Perth.
2. Why Exposed Aggregate Is Popular in Perth (2026 Version)
Perth’s climate is harsh: long summers, intense UV, coastal salt air and clay-heavy soil in many suburbs. Exposed aggregate performs exceptionally under these conditions.
Top Perth-specific benefits:
- Handles high UV without fading (when sealed)
- Naturally slip resistant — ideal for pool surrounds
- Excellent structural durability
- Suits modern and coastal architectural styles
- Stays cleaner than standard concrete
- Ages well with minimal maintenance
No other finish gives the same blend of longevity, aesthetics and safety in WA conditions.
3. Pros of Exposed Aggregate
1. Extremely Durable
Perfect for driveways and high-traffic areas.
2. Slip-Resistant Surface
Safer for kids, pets and pool areas.
3. Premium Aesthetic
Customisable stone blends give high-end visual appeal.
4. Low Maintenance
Sealing every 2–4 years keeps it looking new.
5. UV & Weather Resistant
Ideal for Perth’s hot summers and harsh sunlight.
6. Wide Colour & Stone Variety
Endless custom mix options to suit any home.
4. Cons of Exposed Aggregate
⚠️ 1. Slightly Rough Texture
Some mixes can feel coarse underfoot.
⚠️ 2. Higher Cost Than Plain Concrete
But the lifespan and appearance justify the investment.
⚠️ 3. Requires Professional Installation
Quality varies significantly between contractors.
⚠️ 4. Needs Regular Sealing
Especially in sun-exposed areas.
5. Best Uses for Exposed Aggregate in Perth Homes
1. Driveways
Exposed aggregate is the most popular driveway finish in Perth thanks to its exceptional strength and long-term durability. It handles high vehicle traffic, resists tyre marks, and maintains its appearance even under full WA sun. The natural stone texture not only improves traction but also adds instant kerb appeal, lifting the look of older homes and perfectly complementing new modern builds. With premium mixes available from Limecrete and WA Premix, homeowners can choose tones that match garage doors, render colours or landscaping features.
Ideal suburbs:
Joondalup,
Hillarys,
Madeley,
Landsdale,
Jindalee,
Alkimos.
2. Pool Surrounds
While exposed aggregate can technically be used for pool surrounds, most Perth homeowners avoid raw exposed aggregate because the surface can feel too coarse on bare feet — especially for children. Instead, many choose honed concrete, which starts as exposed aggregate but is ground smooth for improved comfort and a premium architectural look.
If exposed aggregate is used near a pool, the surface is usually:
- Lightly ground/honed to soften roughness
- Treated with anti-slip additives
- Finished in lighter tones to reduce heat
For most projects, honed concrete is the preferred option as it delivers the same stone look but with:
- A smoother, resort-style feel
- Easier barefoot comfort
- Better usability for families
- Easier cleaning and lower risk of grazes
3. Alfresco & Outdoor Areas
Exposed aggregate blends beautifully with Perth’s outdoor lifestyle — especially when paired with coastal landscaping, decking or honed concrete inside the alfresco area. It is low maintenance, hides dirt well, and withstands furniture movement, foot traffic and hot weather. The textured surface adds earthy warmth to outdoor areas, making it ideal for homes with large patios, open backyard entertaining areas or modern extension projects.
Great for: Homes in
Mindarie,
Kinross,
Scarborough,
North Beach,
Iluka.
4. Garden Paths & Walkways
Paths and walkways built with exposed aggregate offer long-term stability and visual appeal. They provide excellent traction during winter rains and won’t lift, shift or grow weeds like traditional pavers. Because Perth’s soil varies significantly between suburbs (coastal sand, inner-north clay, limestone bases), exposed aggregate offers a more stable, consistent option that performs well across all conditions.
Perfect for: Narrow access paths, connecting alfresco to pool, or garden edging.
5. Steps & Entryways
For steps, porches and front landings, exposed aggregate provides texture, safety and a bold architectural look. It enhances the depth and character of front entrances, especially when matched with driveway or pathway finishes. The non-slip surface is particularly important for steps exposed to rain or reticulation overspray. When paired with lighting or rendered walls, it creates a high-end, polished entrance for both modern and traditional Perth homes.
Ideal for: Sloped blocks, elevated entries and multi-level garden designs.
6. Exposed Aggregate vs Other Concrete Finishes (2026)
| Feature | Exposed Aggregate | Honed Concrete |
|---|---|---|
| Foot Comfort | ❌ Rough, not ideal around pools | ✔ Smooth, barefoot-friendly |
| Slip Resistance | ✔ Natural high traction | ✔ Good with anti-slip sealer |
| Best Areas | Driveways, paths, front entries | Alfresco, patios, pool surrounds |
| Look | Textured stone finish | Smooth modern finish |
| Maintenance | Low (reseal 2–4 yrs) | Medium (reseal + clean) |
| Durability | Excellent | Excellent |
| Cost | $$ | $$$ |
| Heat Comfort | Medium (depends on mix) | High (lighter mixes stay cool) |
| Family Friendly | Moderate | Excellent |
| Modern Home Aesthetic | Good | Outstanding |
7. How Exposed Aggregate Performs in WA Climate
☀️ High UV & Heat
Excellent resistance — lighter mixes stay cooler.
🌬️ Coastal Areas
Resists salt-air corrosion far better than pavers.
🌧️ Winter Conditions
Non-slip and stable under moisture.
🧱 Clay or Sand-Based Soils
Proper site prep prevents movement or cracking.
🌡️ Extreme Heatwaves
Exposed aggregate handles thermal expansion well when jointed correctly.
8. Installation Process (Handmade Concreting’s Method)
1. Site Preparation
Excavation, levelling, drainage checks and compaction.
2. Formwork & Reinforcement
Steel mesh and form boards installed to support long-term integrity.
3. Premium Concrete Pour
Using leading mixes from Limecrete / WA Premix / Geostone.
4. Exposure Process
Top layer washed off at precise timing to reveal stones.
5. Curing
Essential for strength and durability.
6. Sealing
UV-protective sealant is applied — recommended every 2–4 years.
This process is critical to achieving the stunning, long-lasting look exposed aggregate is known for.
9. Maintenance Guide for 2026
✔ Reseal every 2–4 years
✔ Pressure wash annually
✔ Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners
✔ Fill small cracks promptly
✔ Sweep debris to prevent staining
Maintenance is minimal, making exposed aggregate ideal for busy households.
10. Perth Case Study – Exposed Aggregate Driveway (2026 Update)
Handmade Concreting recently completed a premium exposed aggregate driveway in Joondalup, using a custom Limecrete blend chosen to complement the home’s modern facade.
Results:
- A stronger, longer-lasting driveway
- Major kerb appeal upgrade
- Excellent traction for vehicles
- Weather-resistant, even under full sun
- Seamless edging and perfect stone exposure
Projects like this are increasingly popular across Perth’s northern corridor (Joondalup, Clarkson, Jindalee, Alkimos, Yanchep).
11. Exposed Aggregate Cost Guide Perth (2026)
Pricing depends on site access, mix choice, prep work and sealing.
💰 Typical Price Range:
$110 – $160 per m² (2026 updated guide)
Key cost factors:
- Premium mixes (e.g., Limecrete whites/corals)
- Excavation or removal of old concrete
- Reinforcement requirements
- Sealing type
- Job size
A site inspection is the only way to provide an accurate quote.
12. Why Choose Handmade Concreting
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 — the texture provides excellent slip resistance.
What is the lifespan?
25–40+ years with proper installation and sealing.
Does it get hot in summer?
Lighter mixes stay noticeably cooler underfoot.
Do these finishes need sealing?
Every 2–4 years, depending on exposure.
Is it worth the cost?
Yes — it delivers superior durability, appearance and long-term value.
14. Request A Free Quote
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