A concrete driveway can look completely different depending on the finish. All of them start with the same base, thickness and reinforcement; the finish decides the look, the grip and the maintenance.
Plain broom finish
A broom dragged across fresh concrete gives a lightly textured, non-slip surface. The most economical and practical finish.
Coloured concrete
Oxide colour mixed through the concrete, often in charcoal, grey or earth tones. Colour runs right through, so wear and chips show less than with a surface coating.
Exposed aggregate
The surface paste is washed off to reveal decorative stones. Very popular in Sydney for its looks and grip. See our exposed aggregate guide.
Stencilled concrete
A stencil and coloured topping create a tile, brick or cobble pattern on the surface.
Stamped or pattern-imprinted concrete
Patterns pressed into the fresh concrete to imitate stone, slate or timber, then coloured and sealed. Dramatic looks, but needs resealing and can be slippery if sealed with the wrong product.
Honed or polished
The surface is ground to reveal the aggregate in cross-section. Popular for courtyards and modern homes; slip resistance must be checked for driveways.
Spray-on finishes
A textured coating sprayed over existing or new concrete. Can refresh old driveways if the slab is sound. See concrete resurfacing.
Comparing the finishes
| Finish | Grip | Maintenance | Relative cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plain broom | Good | Low | Lowest |
| Coloured | Good | Low | Low to mid |
| Exposed aggregate | Very good | Reseal every few years | Mid |
| Stencilled | Depends on sealer | Reseal | Mid |
| Stamped | Depends on sealer | Reseal | Mid to high |
| Honed | Check rating | Seal | Higher |
The finish is only as good as the base
Excavation, compacted base, thickness, reinforcement, joints and drainage decide how long any driveway lasts. See the concrete driveway cost guide.
Concrete driveways in Sydney
See our concrete works service or call 0415 840 500 for a free quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best finish for a concrete driveway?
Plain broom and exposed aggregate are the most practical, combining good grip with low maintenance. The best choice depends on looks and budget.
Is stamped concrete slippery?
It can be when sealed with the wrong product. Anti-slip additives in the sealer improve grip.
Does coloured concrete fade?
Colour mixed through the concrete lasts well; surface coatings and sealers can fade and need refreshing.
