Your driveway is one of the first things people see, and it has to cope with cars, rain, sun and, on the Coast, plenty of sand and salt air. The finish you choose affects how it looks, how it grips in the wet, how much upkeep it needs and what it costs. Here is how the main options compare.
Plain concrete
Plain grey concrete with a broom or trowel finish is the most economical choice. It is strong, easy to clean and suits most homes, especially modern designs where a clean, simple look works best.
Good for: budget-conscious jobs, long driveways, sheds and side paths.
Keep in mind: tyre marks, oil and stains show more on plain grey. A broom finish gives better grip on slopes than a smooth trowel finish.
Coloured concrete
Colour oxide is mixed through the concrete before it is poured, so the whole slab is one even shade. Charcoal, sandstone and earthy tones are popular because they soften the look and blend with the house and garden.
Good for: a more finished look without a big jump in price.
Keep in mind: sealing helps protect the colour from UV and stains. See our colour range.
Exposed aggregate
After the concrete is poured, the top layer is washed back to reveal the stones in the mix. You can choose from different stone blends and colours. It is one of the most popular finishes we lay on the Coast.
Good for: slopes, pool areas and beachside homes. The texture gives excellent grip and hides sand, dirt and wear.
Keep in mind: it costs more than plain concrete, and it should be sealed to lock in the stones and bring out the colour.
Stencilled concrete
A paper stencil is laid on the fresh concrete and a coloured hardener is applied over it. When the stencil is lifted, it leaves the look of brick, cobblestone or tile. It is a classic Coast look and still popular for a traditional style.
Good for: a pattern without the cost and upkeep of real pavers.
Keep in mind: it needs resealing every few years to keep the colours strong.
Stamped concrete
Patterned mats are pressed into the concrete while it is still wet, creating a textured surface that looks like stone, slate or timber.
Good for: a high-end, natural look on patios and entries.
Keep in mind: it is one of the more expensive finishes, and a non-slip additive in the sealer is a good idea for wet areas.
Spray-on concrete
A decorative coating is sprayed over existing concrete, often with a pattern. It is a resurfacing option rather than a new driveway.
Good for: refreshing a sound but tired driveway, path or pool surround without replacing it.
Keep in mind: the existing concrete has to be in good condition. Cracked or sinking concrete should be replaced.
More about stencilled, stamped and spray-on concrete
Quick comparison
- Lowest cost: plain concrete
- Best grip: exposed aggregate, or a broom finish on plain concrete
- Hides dirt and wear best: exposed aggregate
- Most pattern options: stencilled and stamped
- Refreshes old concrete: spray-on, or a clean and reseal
Which finish suits the Central Coast?
For beachside suburbs and steep blocks, exposed aggregate is hard to beat for grip and durability. For a simple, cost-effective driveway, plain or coloured concrete with a broom finish works well. If you love the look of pavers, stencilled or stamped concrete gives you the pattern without the weeds between the joints.
Not sure? Troy brings stone and colour samples when he quotes, so you can see them against your house. Call 0417 734 005 or request a free quote online. You can also read what affects the cost of a concrete driveway.