InsightsGuide · Outside the house

Driveways and paths: exposed aggregate vs plain concrete

What a new-home driveway and paths cost, how concreters price them, and ways to keep the cost down.

Educational information only

This guide is general, educational information to help you understand typical costs and choices. Prices are approximate, based on examples seen in south-east Queensland in 2024–2026, and will vary with location, size, materials, supplier and time. It is not financial, legal, building or professional advice, and not a quote. Always get written quotes from licensed trades and check your own contracts before making decisions.

A new exposed aggregate driveway taped off while curing
A new exposed aggregate driveway, curing
Close-up of exposed aggregate concrete
Close-up of an exposed aggregate finish
Plain concreteabout $100 /m²

Plus GST (2024)

Exposed aggregateabout $130 /m²

2024

Typical job$19k – $24k

Driveway, paths and slabs

Booking aheadabout 4 weeks

For good concreters

Example jobs

JobPrice
Driveway and paths, single-storey house (2024)about $18,900 – $19,700
Driveway, paths and extra slab areas (2024)about $21,200
Driveway, side paths, rear strip and alfresco slab (2025)about $23,650

How it is done

Reinforcing mesh laid for a side path
Formwork and mesh for a side path
Mesh laid along a fence line for a path
Paths are usually poured at the same time as the driveway
  • Formwork and reinforcing mesh go in first, then the pour
  • For exposed aggregate, the top layer is washed off to show the stones
  • About four days later the slab is saw-cut, acid washed and sealed (usually two coats)
  • Plan to reseal about every five years

Ways to save

  • Use plain concrete under areas you will tile later, and keep exposed aggregate for what shows
  • Pour driveway, paths and slabs in one job to avoid extra set-up costs
  • Check estate rules and council requirements for driveway width and crossovers before quoting
  • Compare what is included: sealing, saw-cuts, skip bin and removal of spoil

Related guides

Disclaimer

Everything on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. Costs, prices, interest rates, rules and government schemes change over time, and the figures shown are approximate examples that may already be out of date. Nothing here is financial, tax, legal, building or professional advice, a recommendation or a quote. Do your own research, get written quotes and seek advice from qualified professionals before making any decision.

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