Decorative & Exposed Aggregate Concrete NZ
Concrete Services
- New Zealand
Decorative concrete services
Add more colour, texture and visual interest to your outdoor concrete with decorative and exposed aggregate concrete.
Concrete Services Direct can help arrange quotes for decorative concrete driveways, patios, paths, pool surrounds and other residential or commercial areas throughout New Zealand.
- Exposed aggregate concrete
- Coloured concrete
- Decorative concrete finishes
- Textured concrete surfaces
- Driveways, patios, paths and pool surrounds
- New concrete and replacement projects
- Residential and commercial applications
- Decorative concrete services throughout New Zealand
- Free, no-obligation quotes
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Decorative Concrete for Driveways, Patios, Paths & Outdoor Areas
Concrete doesn’t have to be plain grey.
With the right finish, decorative concrete can provide a durable surface while also contributing to the overall appearance of a home, business or landscaped outdoor area.
One of the most popular options is exposed aggregate concrete, where the stone within the concrete mix is revealed at the surface to create a textured, decorative finish.
Other options can include coloured concrete, broom finishes, textured surfaces and contrasting borders, depending on the project.
Whether you’re planning a driveway, patio, pool area or pathway, tell us what you’re looking to achieve and request a free, no-obligation decorative concrete quote.
What Is Decorative Concrete?
Decorative concrete is a broad term used for concrete that has been finished or treated to create a more distinctive appearance than standard plain concrete.
It can involve:
- Exposed aggregate
- Coloured concrete
- Textured finishes
- Decorative borders
- Contrasting sections
- Different surface treatments
The decorative effect may come from the aggregate, colour, texture or combination of finishes used in the project.
Decorative concrete is commonly chosen for areas where appearance is particularly important, including:
- Driveways
- Front entrances
- Patios
- Paths
- Courtyards
- Pool surrounds
- Outdoor living areas
- Commercial entrances
What Is Exposed Aggregate Concrete?
Exposed aggregate concrete is created by revealing the decorative stone within the concrete mix at the surface.
Instead of seeing mainly cement paste, the finished concrete displays the aggregate, creating natural colour variation and texture.
The appearance depends on factors such as:
- Aggregate type
- Stone size
- Stone colour
- Concrete colour
- Degree of exposure
- Surface treatment
This means exposed aggregate can vary considerably from one project to another.
It can provide a more distinctive finish while still retaining the practical benefits of concrete.
Why Choose Exposed Aggregate?
Exposed aggregate is popular because it combines decorative appearance with a textured concrete surface.
It can work particularly well for outdoor areas where homeowners want something more visually interesting than traditional plain concrete.
Potential benefits include:
- Natural stone appearance
- Textured surface
- Wide range of aggregate colours
- Good visual compatibility with landscaping
- Suitable for many exterior applications
- Can be coordinated across multiple concrete areas
It is especially popular for properties where the driveway, entrance, pathways and outdoor living spaces form an important part of the overall design.
Exposed Aggregate Driveways
Exposed aggregate driveways are one of the most common decorative concrete applications.
Because a driveway can occupy a large and highly visible part of the front of a property, the surface finish can have a substantial effect on the overall appearance.
Exposed aggregate can be used for:
- New driveways
- Replacement driveways
- Driveway extensions
- Parking areas
- Vehicle entrances
The aggregate can create a more textured, decorative result than standard concrete while still providing a durable surface suitable for vehicle use when the driveway is properly designed and installed.
Decorative Concrete Driveways
Exposed aggregate isn’t the only decorative option for driveways.
Depending on the project, decorative concrete driveways may also use:
- Coloured concrete
- Broom finishes
- Contrasting borders
- Different concrete sections
- Textured treatments
The best finish depends on the property style, maintenance preferences and budget.
For larger driveways, it can also be useful to consider how the finish will look across a substantial surface area rather than selecting it from a small sample alone.
Exposed Aggregate Patios
Exposed aggregate patios can create an attractive outdoor entertaining area that works naturally with gardens, landscaping and other hard surfaces.
The finish can be particularly effective for:
- Outdoor dining areas
- BBQ spaces
- Courtyards
- Pergola areas
- Outdoor lounges
- Garden entertaining areas
Using exposed aggregate on both paths and patios can help create a consistent flow between different parts of the property.
Decorative Concrete Patios
Decorative concrete can also be used to make patios feel more integrated with the home and outdoor design.
Potential approaches include:
- Exposed aggregate
- Coloured concrete
- Textured finishes
- Contrasting edges
- Decorative borders
For highly visible entertaining areas, the concrete finish often becomes an important design decision rather than simply a technical one.
Exposed Aggregate Paths
Exposed aggregate pathways can provide a decorative link between driveways, entrances, patios, gardens and pool areas.
This finish can work particularly well where the same aggregate is used throughout several outdoor surfaces.
For example, the driveway might lead into a matching entrance path, while a related finish continues through to the patio or pool area.
This can help the landscaping feel more deliberate and connected.
Decorative Concrete Paths
Concrete paths can also use other decorative options.
Coloured or textured concrete can be useful where a pathway needs to:
- Complement the house
- Blend with garden areas
- Contrast with surrounding concrete
- Create a defined entrance
- Match nearby outdoor living areas
Because paths are narrower than driveways or patios, they can also provide an opportunity to use decorative concrete without covering a very large area.
Exposed Aggregate Pool Surrounds
Exposed aggregate pool surrounds are popular because they combine texture with decorative appearance.
Around a swimming pool, the surface needs to be considered for both wet-area use and visual appeal.
Exposed aggregate can work well around:
- In-ground pools
- Fibreglass pools
- Plunge pools
- Spa areas
- Poolside entertaining spaces
Surface texture, drainage and the specific finish should all be considered when selecting concrete for wet areas.
Decorative Concrete Pool Areas
Pool surrounds can also use coloured or other textured concrete treatments.
Potential design approaches include:
- Light-coloured concrete
- Natural stone tones
- Aggregate blends
- Contrasting coping
- Decorative borders
- Coordinated patio finishes
The goal is often to create a pool area that feels like part of the wider outdoor living space rather than a separate feature.
Coloured Concrete
Coloured concrete provides an alternative to standard grey surfaces.
Pigments can be incorporated into or applied to concrete depending on the chosen system.
Colour can be used to:
- Complement exterior cladding
- Match landscaping
- Work with roofing or fencing
- Create contrast
- Reduce the visual dominance of a large concrete area
Colours are often selected in earthy, neutral or natural tones that suit outdoor environments.
Choosing a Concrete Colour
Selecting a colour from a small sample can be different from seeing it across a large driveway or patio.
When choosing coloured concrete, consider:
- Surrounding buildings
- Existing concrete
- Landscaping
- Fences
- Roof colour
- Paving
- Sun exposure
- Overall property style
Natural variations in concrete and weathering can also affect how colour appears over time.
For this reason, decorative concrete should generally be expected to have some natural variation rather than a perfectly uniform manufactured appearance.
Broom Finish Concrete
A broom finish is created by drawing a broom across the concrete while the surface is still workable.
This leaves a series of fine lines that create additional texture.
Broom-finished concrete is commonly used for:
- Paths
- Driveways
- Patios
- Ramps
- Outdoor access areas
It provides a relatively simple appearance while offering more surface texture than smooth concrete.
Textured Concrete
Concrete can be finished in different ways to create surface texture.
Texture can influence both:
- Appearance
- Practical performance
Outdoor concrete often benefits from a finish that considers conditions such as:
- Rain
- Foot traffic
- Vehicle use
- Pool water
- Slopes
The right texture depends on where the concrete will be installed and how people will use the area.
Decorative Concrete Borders
Borders can help define a concrete area or create contrast between different surfaces.
They may be used around:
- Driveways
- Patios
- Pathways
- Courtyards
- Pool areas
A border can be created using:
- Different concrete colours
- Contrasting aggregate
- Pavers
- Other materials
A simple border can sometimes create enough visual interest without making the overall concrete design too busy.
Combining Concrete Finishes
Different concrete finishes can be combined within the same property.
For example:
- Exposed aggregate driveway
- Matching exposed aggregate entrance path
- Plain utility paths
- Coloured concrete patio
- Decorative pool surround
The key is to avoid using too many competing finishes.
A smaller number of complementary materials generally creates a cleaner and more consistent outdoor design.
Matching Decorative Concrete Across a Property
Where several concrete areas are being installed at different times, homeowners often want them to match.
An exact match can sometimes be difficult because concrete changes with:
- Age
- Weather
- Sunlight
- Cleaning
- Sealing
- Wear
Aggregate and concrete batches may also vary.
If multiple areas are intended to look consistent, completing them as part of the same project can sometimes make coordination easier.
Where this isn’t possible, a complementary finish may be more realistic than expecting an invisible match.
Decorative Concrete for New Homes
A new build provides an ideal opportunity to plan decorative concrete alongside the wider property design.
Potential areas include:
- Driveways
- Entrance paths
- Patios
- Pool surrounds
- Courtyards
- Outdoor stairs
Concrete can be selected to work with:
- Cladding
- Roofing
- Landscaping
- Fencing
- Garage doors
- Outdoor structures
Planning the finishes early can help avoid a collection of unrelated surfaces being added later.
Decorative Concrete for Renovations
Decorative concrete can also be used to update established properties.
Renovation projects may involve:
- Replacing an old driveway
- Removing dated paving
- Enlarging a patio
- Updating a pool area
- Creating new entrance paths
- Connecting renovated outdoor spaces
Changing the concrete finish can have a noticeable impact on the appearance of the property, particularly at the front entrance or main entertaining area.
Exposed Aggregate for Modern Homes
Exposed aggregate can work particularly well with modern architecture because its natural stone texture contrasts with clean building lines.
It can complement materials such as:
- Timber
- Brick
- Metal cladding
- Plaster
- Stone
- Glass
Neutral aggregate blends can provide texture without making the surface visually overwhelming.
Decorative Concrete for Traditional Homes
Decorative concrete can also suit older or more traditional properties.
The key is selecting finishes that work with the existing architecture.
Natural aggregate, softer colours and restrained detailing can help the concrete feel appropriate rather than overly contemporary.
Decorative Concrete for Commercial Properties
Decorative concrete isn’t limited to homes.
Commercial applications can include:
- Business entrances
- Retail areas
- Office pathways
- Courtyards
- Hospitality outdoor areas
- Apartment developments
- Commercial landscaping
A decorative finish can help create a stronger first impression in areas visible to customers and visitors.
Less visible service areas can still use simpler practical finishes where appearance is not the priority.
Exposed Aggregate for Commercial Entrances
Commercial entrances can use exposed aggregate to create a more refined and durable exterior surface.
Applications may include:
- Pedestrian access
- Forecourts
- Entry paths
- Landscaped areas
- Outdoor seating areas
Because commercial surfaces may experience higher traffic, the intended use and load requirements should be considered alongside appearance.
Decorative Concrete Surface Samples
Samples can be useful when choosing colours or aggregate combinations.
However, keep in mind that a small sample may not perfectly represent a finished driveway or patio.
The final result can vary because of:
- Concrete batch variation
- Aggregate distribution
- Surface exposure
- Weather
- Finishing technique
Decorative concrete naturally contains variation, which is part of its character.
How Exposed Aggregate Concrete Is Made
Exposed aggregate begins in much the same way as other concrete.
A typical process may include:
- Site preparation
- Boxing and reinforcement
- Concrete placement
- Levelling
- Surface treatment
- Aggregate exposure
- Washing and finishing
- Curing
- Sealing where applicable
The surface treatment removes or exposes part of the cement paste so the stone aggregate becomes visible.
The timing of this process is important because the concrete needs to be at the correct stage before exposure.
Exposing the Aggregate
The amount of exposure can affect both the appearance and texture of the finished concrete.
Too little exposure may leave the aggregate less visible, while excessive exposure can create a rougher result.
The finish should be carried out consistently across the surface.
Because exposed aggregate depends heavily on finishing technique, workmanship can have a significant impact on the appearance of the final result.
Exposed Aggregate Sealing
Some exposed aggregate concrete is sealed after installation.
A suitable sealer may help:
- Enhance colour
- Reduce staining
- Make cleaning easier
- Protect the surface
Different sealers can create different appearances, ranging from more natural finishes to enhanced or slightly glossy results.
Where concrete is used in wet areas such as pool surrounds, the effect of a sealer on surface grip should also be considered.
Does Decorative Concrete Need Sealing?
Not every decorative concrete surface is treated the same way.
Whether sealing is appropriate depends on:
- Type of finish
- Location
- Desired appearance
- Maintenance preferences
- Sealer system
If sealing is used, it may require future maintenance or reapplication depending on the product and environment.
Ask what maintenance is recommended for the particular decorative finish you’re considering.
Maintaining Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate is generally relatively straightforward to maintain.
Routine maintenance can include:
- Sweeping
- Washing
- Removing leaves and debris
- Cleaning stains
- Keeping drainage clear
If the surface is sealed, the sealer may eventually require maintenance.
Avoid aggressive cleaning products or techniques without checking that they are appropriate for the concrete and any sealer applied.
Maintaining Coloured Concrete
Coloured concrete can change appearance gradually through weathering and use.
Maintenance may include:
- Regular cleaning
- Prompt removal of stains
- Maintaining sealers where applicable
- Avoiding unsuitable chemicals
Outdoor concrete is exposed to sunlight and weather, so some natural variation over time should be expected.
Will Exposed Aggregate Fade?
The stone itself generally retains its natural colour, but the overall appearance of the surface can change with weathering, dirt, sealer condition and exposure.
Regular cleaning and appropriate maintenance can help keep the surface looking its best.
If a sealer is used, changes in that sealer may affect how rich or subdued the aggregate appears.
Does Coloured Concrete Fade?
Outdoor coloured concrete can change over time through:
- UV exposure
- Weather
- Wear
- Dirt
- Sealer degradation
The degree of change depends on the colour system and conditions.
Choosing an established product and following the recommended maintenance can help preserve the appearance.
Is Exposed Aggregate Slippery?
Exposed aggregate generally provides more surface texture than very smooth concrete, but no outdoor surface should be assumed to be completely slip-proof.
Wetness, algae, sealers and contaminants can all affect grip.
For pool areas, slopes and frequently wet surfaces, the finish should be chosen with those conditions in mind.
Is Decorative Concrete Suitable for Driveways?
Yes.
Decorative concrete is commonly used for driveways, provided the slab itself is designed appropriately for vehicle loads.
The decorative surface doesn’t replace the need for:
- Good ground preparation
- Appropriate concrete thickness
- Reinforcement
- Drainage
- Control joints
Appearance is only one part of a successful driveway.
Is Exposed Aggregate Suitable for Paths?
Yes.
Exposed aggregate can provide a durable and decorative pathway surface and works particularly well when matching nearby driveways, patios or pool areas.
For high-use paths, the aggregate texture should still be comfortable and practical for pedestrian traffic.
Is Decorative Concrete Suitable Around Pools?
Yes, but surface texture, wet-area performance and drainage need to be considered carefully.
Exposed aggregate and other textured finishes are often chosen for pool surrounds, but the specific surface and any sealer should be suitable for the environment.
Can Decorative Concrete Crack?
Yes.
Decorative concrete is still concrete, so it can develop cracks due to:
- Shrinkage
- Ground movement
- Temperature changes
- Structural loads
- Poor preparation
The decorative finish does not eliminate normal concrete movement.
Good preparation, reinforcement and control joints can help manage cracking.
Control Joints in Decorative Concrete
Control joints are important in decorative concrete because they help manage shrinkage cracking.
However, they also affect appearance.
For highly visible driveways or patios, joint layout should be considered as part of the design.
Well-positioned joints can often be incorporated into the visual pattern rather than appearing random.
Decorative Concrete Repairs
Decorative surfaces can be more difficult to repair invisibly than standard concrete.
Matching can be affected by:
- Aggregate
- Colour
- Age
- Surface texture
- Weathering
- Sealer
A repair can be technically sound but still remain visible.
For this reason, larger decorative repairs may sometimes be better taken to a natural joint or defined boundary.
Replacing Decorative Concrete
Replacement may be appropriate where decorative concrete has:
- Significant cracking
- Settlement
- Severe surface deterioration
- Poor drainage
- Widespread damage
Replacement provides the opportunity to:
- Select a new finish
- Change the layout
- Improve drainage
- Correct levels
- Update surrounding landscaping
Old decorative concrete needs to be removed before the new surface is prepared and poured.
Matching New Exposed Aggregate to Old
Matching new exposed aggregate with an older surface can be difficult.
Even if a similar stone is used, differences may remain because of:
- Weathering
- Aggregate supply
- Concrete colour
- Exposure depth
- Sealer condition
Where matching is important, discuss expectations before the project begins.
A deliberately contrasting section can sometimes look better than a near-match that is noticeably different.
Exposed Aggregate vs Plain Concrete
Both provide durable concrete surfaces, but they have different appearances and costs.
Plain concrete may appeal where:
- Budget is the priority
- Appearance is less important
- The area is utilitarian
- A simple finish is preferred
Exposed aggregate may appeal where:
- Appearance matters
- Additional texture is desired
- The concrete is highly visible
- It needs to complement landscaping
The right option depends on the individual project.
Exposed Aggregate vs Pavers
Exposed aggregate and pavers can both create decorative outdoor surfaces.
Exposed aggregate offers:
- A largely continuous surface
- Natural aggregate appearance
- Fewer individual units
- Integration with larger concrete areas
Pavers offer:
- Individual patterns
- Different materials and shapes
- Easier replacement of individual units
The best choice depends on budget, appearance, site conditions and maintenance preferences.
Decorative Concrete vs Standard Concrete
The biggest difference is usually the surface appearance and finishing process.
Standard concrete focuses primarily on functionality.
Decorative concrete adds additional colour, texture or visual treatment.
Because more specialised materials or finishing can be involved, decorative concrete can cost more than a straightforward plain finish.
How Much Does Exposed Aggregate Concrete Cost?
There isn’t one standard price for exposed aggregate concrete.
Cost depends on:
- Total area
- Site preparation
- Concrete thickness
- Reinforcement
- Aggregate selection
- Finish
- Access
- Concrete pumping
- Sealing
- Project location
A decorative driveway requiring removal of existing concrete will cost differently from a new patio on a prepared site.
A project-specific quote will provide the most useful indication.
Is Exposed Aggregate More Expensive Than Plain Concrete?
Usually, exposed aggregate costs more than a basic plain concrete finish because additional materials and finishing processes can be involved.
The actual price difference depends on:
- Aggregate choice
- Area size
- Preparation
- Labour
- Sealer
- Project complexity
For many homeowners, the additional cost is weighed against the improved visual appearance of the finished surface.
How Much Does Coloured Concrete Cost?
Coloured concrete pricing depends on the type of colouring system, quantity of concrete and the overall project.
Colour is only one part of the final cost.
Ground preparation, reinforcement, labour, access and concrete thickness may have a larger effect on the total price.
How Long Does Exposed Aggregate Take to Install?
The timeframe depends on the project size and amount of preparation.
Work can involve:
- Excavation
- Base preparation
- Boxing
- Reinforcing
- Concrete placement
- Surface exposure
- Cleaning
- Curing
- Sealing
The decorative finishing stage adds additional steps compared with some standard concrete projects.
Weather conditions can also influence scheduling.
How Long Before You Can Use Decorative Concrete?
Decorative concrete needs time to cure just like standard concrete.
The appropriate timeframe before walking, driving or placing heavy loads on the surface depends on the project.
Follow the installation advice provided for the specific concrete.
Do not assume that because the decorative finish appears complete, the slab has reached full strength.
Can Existing Concrete Be Made Decorative?
Some existing concrete can potentially receive decorative coatings, resurfacing or other treatments, depending on its condition.
However, this is different from new exposed aggregate concrete.
Existing concrete with:
- Major cracking
- Settlement
- Movement
- Structural problems
may not be a suitable base for a purely decorative surface treatment.
The condition of the existing slab should be assessed first.
Can You Put Exposed Aggregate Over Existing Concrete?
True exposed aggregate is generally created as part of the new concrete surface itself.
There are overlay systems that can create decorative aggregate effects over some existing concrete, but suitability depends on the condition of the slab and the specific product being used.
If the old concrete is badly damaged or moving, replacement may be the more appropriate option.
Can Decorative Concrete Be Used Indoors?
Yes, certain decorative concrete finishes can be used indoors.
However, indoor applications tend to use different treatments from rough exterior exposed aggregate.
Options can include:
- Polished concrete
- Coloured concrete
- Decorative floor systems
The required finish should reflect how the interior space will be used.
Decorative Concrete for Outdoor Steps
Concrete steps can use decorative finishes to match nearby:
- Paths
- Patios
- Driveways
- Pool areas
Using the same aggregate or colour can help integrate steps into the surrounding outdoor design.
Surface texture should also be appropriate for safe pedestrian use.
Decorative Concrete for Courtyards
Courtyards are ideal spaces for decorative concrete because the surface often forms a major part of the visible design.
Exposed aggregate or coloured concrete can be combined with:
- Planters
- Outdoor furniture
- Lighting
- Landscaping
- Feature walls
A relatively simple concrete finish can provide a strong base without competing with other outdoor features.
Decorative Concrete for Entranceways
The entrance to a home or business is another area where decorative concrete can have a strong visual impact.
Potential uses include:
- Front paths
- Entrance courtyards
- Steps
- Driveway aprons
- Commercial forecourts
A well-chosen finish can help create a consistent transition from the street or driveway to the building entrance.
Decorative Concrete Throughout New Zealand
Concrete Services Direct can help arrange decorative and exposed aggregate concrete services across many parts of New Zealand.
Service areas include:
- Northland
- Auckland
- Waikato
- Gisborne
- Bay of Plenty
- Hawke’s Bay
- Taranaki
- Manawatu
- Wairarapa
- Wellington
- Tasman
- Marlborough
- West Coast
- North Canterbury
- South Canterbury
- Otago
- Southland
Whether you’re considering an exposed aggregate driveway, decorative patio, coloured concrete path or pool surround, tell us what you want to achieve and where your property is located.
Find Decorative Concrete Services In Your Area
Frequently Asked Questions About Decorative Concrete
What is decorative concrete?
Decorative concrete is concrete that uses colour, aggregate, texture or other finishing techniques to create a more distinctive appearance than standard plain concrete.
What is exposed aggregate?
Exposed aggregate is a concrete finish where the stone within the concrete is revealed at the surface.
This creates a textured, decorative appearance.
Is exposed aggregate good for driveways?
Yes.
Exposed aggregate is widely used for driveways because it provides a durable concrete surface with additional texture and visual interest.
Is exposed aggregate suitable around pools?
Yes, it is commonly used around pools.
The specific finish and any sealer should be selected with wet-area surface performance in mind.
Is exposed aggregate more expensive than normal concrete?
It is generally more expensive than a basic plain finish because additional aggregate selection and finishing work can be involved.
The final price depends on the overall project.
Can concrete be coloured?
Yes.
Colour can be incorporated into concrete or added using particular finishing systems depending on the project.
What colours are available?
Colour availability depends on the concrete and pigment systems being used.
Natural greys, earthy tones and neutral colours are common choices for outdoor concrete.
Does coloured concrete fade?
Outdoor coloured concrete can change over time due to sunlight, weather, wear and sealer condition.
Appropriate maintenance can help preserve the finish.
Does exposed aggregate need to be sealed?
Sealing may be recommended for some exposed aggregate finishes.
The appropriate treatment depends on the location, desired appearance and specific concrete system.
Is exposed aggregate hard to maintain?
It is generally relatively low maintenance.
Routine washing, debris removal and maintenance of any applied sealer can help keep it looking good.
Can new decorative concrete match existing concrete?
Sometimes a close match can be achieved, but an exact match is difficult because older concrete changes through weathering and use.
Can decorative concrete crack?
Yes.
Decorative concrete behaves like other concrete and can develop cracks from shrinkage, movement and ground conditions.
What is the best decorative concrete for a driveway?
There is no single best option.
Exposed aggregate, coloured concrete and textured finishes can all work well depending on the property, budget and desired appearance.
Can decorative concrete be repaired?
Yes, depending on the damage.
However, matching the original colour, texture or aggregate exactly can be difficult.
How do I get a decorative concrete quote?
Tell us where you’re located, what area you want concreted and the type of finish you’re considering.
Photos, approximate dimensions and examples of the appearance you like can all be helpful.
Get A Quote for Decorative & Exposed Aggregate Concrete
Whether you’re planning an exposed aggregate driveway, decorative concrete patio, coloured pathway or new pool surround, Concrete Services Direct can help you get the quoting process started.
Tell us where the project is located, the approximate area and the type of appearance you’re considering.