Honed Concrete vs Exposed Aggregate in 2026 — What’s Best for Perth Homes?
Blog post Updated: 19/1/2026 by Handmade Concreting
Choosing between honed concrete and exposed aggregate is one of the most common decisions Perth homeowners face when planning a new driveway, pool surround or outdoor living area.
Both finishes start from a similar concrete base — but their feel, performance, cost and best uses are very different, especially in Western Australia’s climate.
In this 2026 guide, we compare honed concrete vs exposed aggregate based on
real Perth conditions, safety, heat, slip resistance, long-term performance and where each finish truly works best.
Table of Contents
- What’s the Difference Between Honed Concrete and Exposed Aggregate?
- Why the Choice Matters for Perth Homes
- Honed Concrete: Key Features, Pros & Cons
- Exposed Aggregate: Key Features, Pros & Cons
- Comfort, Safety & Slip Resistance Compared
- Heat Performance in WA Summers
- Cost Comparison in Perth (2026 Guide)
- Best Uses for Each Finish
- Common Mistakes Perth Homeowners Make
- Expert Recommendation from Handmade Concreting
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the Difference Between Honed Concrete and Exposed Aggregate?
Both finishes begin as exposed aggregate concrete, but the final surface treatment is what sets them apart.
- Exposed aggregate is left textured after the surface cement is washed away, revealing the stones beneath.
- Honed concrete is mechanically ground after curing to create a smooth, refined surface while still showcasing the stone.
The result is two finishes with very different performance characteristics.
2. Why the Choice Matters for Perth Homes
In Perth, concrete finishes must handle:
- Extreme summer heat
- High UV exposure
- Coastal salt air in many suburbs
- Barefoot use around pools and alfrescos
- Vehicle traffic on driveways
Choosing the wrong finish for the wrong area can lead to discomfort, premature wear or unnecessary maintenance.
3. Honed Concrete: Key Features, Pros & Cons
What Honed Concrete Is Best Known For
- Smooth, barefoot-friendly surface
- High-end, architectural appearance
- Seamless indoor–outdoor transitions
- Excellent performance around pools and alfrescos
âś… Pros
- Comfortable underfoot
- Safer for children around pools
- Easy to clean
- Modern, resort-style look
- Performs well with anti-slip sealers
⚠️ Cons
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires experienced grinding and sealing
- Not ideal for heavy vehicle traffic
- Needs resealing over time
Check out our
honed concrete services in Perth.
4. Exposed Aggregate: Key Features, Pros & Cons
What Exposed Aggregate Is Best Known For
- Textured, natural stone finish
- Excellent durability
- Strong traction
- Lower cost than honed concrete
âś… Pros
- Extremely durable
- Ideal for driveways and high-traffic areas
- Naturally slip resistant
- Lower maintenance overall
- Wide range of aggregate blends
⚠️ Cons
- Can feel rough under bare feet
- Not ideal directly around pools
- Dark mixes can retain heat
- Less refined appearance in living areas
See our
exposed aggregate services in Perth.
5. Comfort, Safety & Slip Resistance Compared
This is where the biggest difference lies.
- Honed concrete is preferred for barefoot areas like pool surrounds and alfresco spaces when sealed with an anti-slip additive.
- Exposed aggregate provides excellent grip but can be abrasive, making it less comfortable for children and frequent barefoot use.
In real Perth homes, honed concrete is rarely chosen for driveways, and exposed aggregate is rarely chosen for pool edges — each has a clear role.
6. Heat Performance in WA Summers
Heat retention is a major concern in Western Australia.
- Light-coloured honed concrete stays noticeably cooler underfoot.
- Exposed aggregate heat varies depending on stone colour and size.
- Dark aggregates and finishes absorb more heat in full sun.
For north-facing outdoor areas, lighter mixes are always recommended regardless of finish.
7. Cost Comparison in Perth (2026 Guide)
| Finish | Typical Cost (Per m2) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exposed Aggregate | $120 - $180 | More affordable, highly durable |
| Honed Concrete | $140 - $200 | Premium finish, more labour |
Prices vary based on site access, preparation, mix choice and sealing systems. if you want to know more about honed concrete, take a look at the complete guide to honed concrete.
8. Best Uses for Each Finish
Best Uses for Honed Concrete
- Pool surrounds
- Alfresco and entertaining areas
- Courtyards and patios
- Feature walkways and thresholds
The finish for almost perfect for every finish see if it is honed concrete is worth it for your backyard.
Best Uses for Exposed Aggregate
- Driveways
- Paths and side access
- Front entries
- High-traffic outdoor areas
Most Perth homes achieve the best result by using both finishes strategically.
9. Common Mistakes Perth Homeowners Make
Some of the most common issues we see include:
- Using exposed aggregate directly around pools
- Choosing honed concrete for driveways
- Selecting dark mixes in full sun
- Ignoring long-term maintenance needs
- Choosing a finish based only on photos
Understanding how each finish performs in WA conditions prevents costly mistakes. so you don't make the mistake, take a look at exposed aggregate best uses, pro and cons.
10. Expert Recommendation from Handmade Concreting
From installing both finishes across Perth, our experience shows:
- Honed concrete delivers the best comfort and safety in living areas
- Exposed aggregate outperforms other finishes for driveways
- Light-coloured mixes age best in WA sun
- Combining both finishes produces the best long-term result

Choosing the right finish for the right area is what separates a good outcome from a great one.
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 honed concrete slippery when wet?
No — when sealed with an anti-slip system, it performs very well around pools.
Can exposed aggregate be used around pools?
It can, but most Perth homeowners prefer honed concrete due to comfort.
Which finish lasts longer?
Both are extremely durable when installed correctly and maintained.
Can I use both finishes on the same property?
Yes — this is very common and often recommended.
Which is better for Perth homes in 2026?
Neither is “better” overall — the best choice depends on location and use.
12. Final Verdict: What’s Best for Perth Homes in 2026?
For Perth homeowners in 2026, the best approach is rarely choosing one finish everywhere.
- Use exposed aggregate where strength and traction matter
- Use honed concrete where comfort, safety and appearance matter
This balanced approach delivers the best performance, comfort and long-term value in WA conditions.
👉 For tailored advice on honed concrete and exposed aggregate in Perth, speak with Handmade Concreting today.
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