When it comes to decorative concrete in Melbourne, two finishes dominate the discussion: coloured concrete and exposed aggregate. Both options are highly sought after by homeowners and builders who want to combine durability with strong visual appeal. At Skyco Group, we specialise in delivering both finishes, helping clients across Melbourne choose the ideal surface for driveways, patios, and commercial spaces. This guide compares the two options, their advantages, costs, and practical considerations, so you can make an informed choice. For personalised advice, contact our experts today on (03) 9993 7188.
Coloured Concrete and Exposed Aggregate: An Overview
Coloured concrete is standard concrete mixed with pigments or dyes to achieve a customised colour. This can be done by adding colour during mixing (integral colouring) or by applying surface treatments after the slab has been poured. It is ideal for achieving a uniform finish that can complement existing landscaping or architectural styles.
Exposed aggregate, on the other hand, is created by removing the top layer of cement paste, revealing decorative stones, pebbles, or shells. This textured finish is popular in Melbourne for its natural look, slip resistance, and durability under heavy foot or vehicle traffic.
Coloured Concrete: Features and Benefits
1. Wide Colour Options
Coloured concrete offers an extensive palette, ranging from earth tones to vibrant shades. This makes it ideal for homeowners wanting a customised driveway or patio that matches their property’s aesthetic. Pigments can be sourced from suppliers such as Dulux Australia for UV-resistant finishes that last under Melbourne’s harsh sun.
2. Uniform Appearance
The colour in integral mixes distributes evenly throughout the slab, creating a consistent look. Unlike paint or stains, the colour won’t peel off over time, making it a low-maintenance option.
3. Design Flexibility
Coloured concrete can be used in a variety of applications: driveways, pathways, pool surrounds, and even interior floors. It also works well with stencilling, borders, or decorative patterns, allowing you to personalise your outdoor space.
4. Durability and UV Stability
With the right pigments and sealants, coloured concrete can resist fading caused by UV rays. Melbourne property owners often reseal coloured concrete every 2–3 years to maintain its vibrancy, following recommendations from the Concrete Institute of Australia.
Exposed Aggregate: Features and Benefits
1. Natural Aesthetic Appeal
Exposed aggregate showcases the embedded stones or pebbles, creating a natural, textured look. The result is a surface that blends beautifully with gardens, landscapes, and contemporary architecture across Melbourne.
2. Slip Resistance
The textured finish provides excellent traction, making exposed aggregate an ideal choice for wet areas such as pool surrounds, pathways, or steep driveways. This aligns with WorkSafe Victoria safety recommendations for minimising slip hazards.
3. Long-Term Durability
Exposed aggregate is exceptionally durable and well-suited for high-traffic areas. The pebbles not only enhance appearance but also protect the surface from wear, making it a reliable choice for commercial driveways or footpaths in line with City of Melbourne building standards.
4. Low Maintenance
Maintenance is relatively straightforward: periodic cleaning and resealing every 2–4 years. Using professional-grade sealants from CSR Building Products or Dulux ensures resistance to stains and weather damage.
Cost Considerations in Melbourne
While both finishes offer long-term value, there are cost differences to consider:
- Coloured Concrete: Generally more affordable upfront, depending on the pigment and finishing technique. A great option for homeowners balancing cost and design.
- Exposed Aggregate: Slightly more expensive due to labour-intensive finishing and the cost of quality aggregate materials. However, the long-term durability often offsets the higher initial investment.
For accurate pricing in Melbourne, contact Skyco Group for a customised quote based on your project specifications.
Which Finish is Right for You?
The decision between coloured concrete and exposed aggregate depends on several factors:
- Aesthetic preference: Coloured concrete offers a wider colour palette, while exposed aggregate delivers natural texture.
- Functionality: Exposed aggregate is recommended for areas needing high slip resistance, such as pool decks or steep driveways.
- Maintenance: Both require resealing, but exposed aggregate surfaces tend to be slightly lower maintenance over decades of use.
- Budget: Coloured concrete is typically more budget-friendly upfront, while exposed aggregate provides a premium, durable finish.
The Role of Professional Expertise
Whether you choose coloured concrete or exposed aggregate, engaging professionals is key. At Skyco Group, our team follows VBA standards to ensure compliance, uses high-quality materials from Bunnings and Mitre 10, and delivers results that withstand Melbourne’s climate. Call us today on (03) 9993 7188 for expert advice.
Conclusion
Both coloured concrete and exposed aggregate are excellent decorative concrete finishes, each with unique benefits. Coloured concrete offers vibrant, uniform finishes, while exposed aggregate delivers natural textures and long-lasting durability. The best option depends on your style, budget, and practical requirements. For tailored advice, contact Skyco Group Melbourne and let our professionals help you choose the right surface for your home or commercial project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is coloured concrete more expensive than regular concrete?
Yes, due to the addition of pigments, it costs slightly more than standard grey concrete.
Q: How long does exposed aggregate last?
With proper sealing and maintenance, more than 20 years.
Q: Can I change the colour of existing concrete?
Yes, colour hardeners, stains, or dyes can be applied to existing slabs.
Q: Does exposed aggregate require more maintenance?
It requires resealing every few years but is otherwise low maintenance.
Q: Can I DIY exposed aggregate?
While possible, professional installation is recommended for quality and compliance with local Australian Standards.
