What is Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
Exposed aggregate is a decorative concrete finish where we reveal the stones and aggregates that are naturally mixed into the concrete. Instead of leaving you with a smooth, plain surface, we wash away the top layer of cement paste while the concrete’s still setting. What you’re left with is a textured surface that shows off the natural beauty of the stones – whether that’s river pebbles, coloured glass, or crushed granite.
The process itself is pretty straightforward, but the timing has to be spot on. We pour the concrete like normal, but before it fully sets, we apply a surface retarder. This chemical slows down the curing of the top layer. Once we’ve got the timing right – and this is where experience really counts – we wash away that top cement layer with water. Some jobs need a bit of light brushing too. What gets exposed are all those beautiful aggregates sitting just below the surface.
The difference between this and your standard concrete finish is night and day. Plain concrete is smooth and uniform – which is fine if that’s what you’re after. But it shows every stain, every bit of wear, and every imperfection. Exposed aggregate, on the other hand, hides minor marks and stains because of its natural variation and texture. Plus, you get that three-dimensional look that adds real character to your property. It’s not just concrete anymore – it’s a feature.
Project Timeline and What to Expect
When it comes to choosing your aggregates, you’ve got more options than you might think. And this is where exposed aggregate really gets interesting – because you’re not stuck with just one look.
Local Queensland River Stones
Local Queensland river stones are probably the most popular choice around here. These are the smooth, rounded pebbles that come in natural earth tones – greys, browns, tans, and sometimes hints of red. They’ve been tumbled by water for years, so they’ve got that organic look that fits in perfectly with our Fraser Coast landscapes. Plus, using local stones means they hold up well in our climate because they’re already from here.
Coloured Glass Aggregates
If you want something a bit more modern or eye-catching, coloured glass aggregates are worth looking at. These come in blues, greens, ambers – pretty much any colour you can imagine. They catch the light differently throughout the day, which gives you a bit of sparkle without going over the top. We’ve done some pool surrounds with blue glass aggregate that look absolutely stunning.
Recycled & Eco-Friendly Options
For the environmentally conscious – and we’re seeing more of this lately – recycled aggregates are a solid option. These might be recycled glass or crushed concrete from other projects. You get a unique look while doing something good for the planet.
Stone Size Variations
Size matters too. We typically work with 10mm, 14mm, or 20mm stones. Smaller stones give you a finer, more subtle texture. Larger stones make more of a statement and can handle heavier traffic better. Most driveways we do in Maryborough use the 14mm or 20mm range.
Where Exposed Aggregate Works Best in Maryborough
Here’s the thing about exposed aggregate – it’s not just for one type of project. We’re installing it all over Maryborough properties, and each application brings its own benefits.
Driveways That Actually Improve Your Curb Appeal
Your driveway is the first thing people see when they pull up to your place. A well-done exposed aggregate driveway completely changes how your property looks from the street. Instead of that plain grey concrete that every second house has got, you get something with texture and character. And because the aggregate hides tyre marks and oil spots better than smooth concrete, it keeps looking good with way less effort on your part.
Pool Surrounds with Safety Built In
This is where exposed aggregate really shines in our climate. That textured surface gives you grip even when it’s wet – which around a pool is pretty much all the time. We’ve done dozens of pool decks around Maryborough, and the feedback is always the same: people feel safer walking around their pool, and it stays cooler underfoot than smooth concrete in our summer heat.
Outdoor Entertaining Areas & Patios
If you’re planning an outdoor entertaining area, exposed aggregate is hard to beat. It defines the space without looking too formal, it’s comfortable to walk on barefoot, and it ties in beautifully with garden beds and landscaping. Plus it’s low maintenance – just hose it down when needed.
Walkways & Garden Paths
Even smaller areas like pathways benefit from exposed aggregate. The texture adds visual interest, the grip keeps it safe in wet weather, and it creates a natural flow through your garden areas.
Design Possibilities with Exposed Aggregate
One of the best things about exposed aggregate is that you’re not locked into just one look. There’s plenty of room to get creative and make it your own.
Mixing Colours for Custom Looks
You can combine different coloured aggregates to create patterns or colour schemes that match your home. Some of our Maryborough clients go with warm earth tones that complement their brick homes. Others mix in blues and greys for a more coastal feel that suits the Fraser Coast vibe. The stones are mixed throughout the concrete, so the colour goes all the way through – it’s not just sitting on the surface waiting to wear off.
Creating Patterns and Borders
Where exposed aggregate really gets interesting is when you start playing with borders and feature strips. You might use a darker aggregate around the edges of your driveway with a lighter colour in the middle. Or create a feature strip down the centre using coloured glass. We’ve done projects where we’ve combined exposed aggregate with other concrete finishes – maybe a smooth border around an exposed aggregate patio. It breaks up large areas and adds that extra bit of design detail.
Working with Your Landscaping
Exposed aggregate doesn’t compete with your gardens – it complements them. The natural stone look ties in beautifully with garden beds, retaining walls, and outdoor features. We often work with landscapers to make sure the aggregate colours work with the plants and hardscaping you’ve already got planned. When it all comes together, your outdoor space feels cohesive instead of like a bunch of separate projects stuck together.
Frequently Asked Questions About Exposed Aggregate
How long does exposed aggregate concrete last?
With proper installation and basic maintenance, you’re looking at 20-30 years or more. The stones themselves are incredibly durable, and because the finish hides wear better than smooth concrete, it keeps looking good for decades. We’ve got exposed aggregate driveways around Maryborough that are still going strong after 15+ years.
Does it need sealing?
Yes, and this is important. We recommend sealing exposed aggregate once it’s fully cured – usually after about 28 days. A good quality sealer protects the concrete, makes it easier to clean, and enhances the colour of the stones. You’ll want to reseal every 2-3 years depending on traffic and sun exposure. It’s not a big job – most homeowners can do it themselves with a roller and a weekend afternoon.
Is it slippery when wet?
No, and that’s one of the main reasons people choose it. The textured surface gives you grip even in the rain. Around pools or outdoor areas where water’s common, this is a huge advantage over smooth concrete or tiles.
Can it crack like regular concrete?
Any concrete can crack if the ground underneath moves or if it’s not installed properly. That’s why base preparation matters so much, especially with Maryborough’s clay soils. We use control joints to manage where any cracks might appear, and proper installation minimises the risk significantly.
How soon can I use it after installation?
You can walk on it after about 24-48 hours, but we recommend keeping vehicles off for at least 7 days. Full strength takes 28 days. We know that’s frustrating when you just want to use your new driveway, but rushing it can damage the surface before it’s properly cured.
Ready to Transform Your Maryborough Property?
If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your driveway, patio, or outdoor areas, exposed aggregate concrete gives you that perfect combination of durability, safety, and visual appeal that works so well here on the Fraser Coast.
We’re a local Maryborough concreting business that understands exactly what our climate demands from concrete. We know the soil conditions, we know the council requirements, and we know how to time our pours around the weather patterns that can make or break a concrete job. That local knowledge matters when you’re investing in something that’s going to be part of your property for the next 20+ years.
Every exposed aggregate project we do starts with a free quote and consultation. We’ll come out to your place, have a look at what you’re planning, talk through your aggregate options, and give you a clear price with no surprises down the track. We’ll also give you realistic timeframes – because we’d rather be honest about how long it takes than promise something we can’t deliver.
Our work is fully licensed and insured, and we guarantee everything we do. You’ll get quality workmanship from experienced concreters who take pride in getting it right the first time.
Give us a call or send through an enquiry online. Let’s talk about what exposed aggregate can do for your property. Whether it’s a driveway that’ll boost your curb appeal, a pool surround that’s actually safe to walk on, or an entertaining area that ties your whole outdoor space together – we’ll help you work out the best solution for your needs and your budget.