Cost Guides
Exposed Aggregate Cost Per m² in QLD (2026 Price Guide)
By Fraser Coast Concreting · 16 June 2026
Quick answer
As a guide, exposed aggregate concrete typically costs $120–$170/m² supplied and laid in Queensland in 2026. That's roughly $30–$60/m² more than plain concrete. The price depends on the stone chosen, the seal, the area size and site preparation. A written quote is the only accurate figure for your job.
Exposed aggregate is one of the most popular decorative finishes on the Fraser Coast, and for good reason: it looks great, grips well underfoot and stands up to our climate. This guide covers what it costs per m² in Queensland in 2026, how that compares to plain concrete, and when the extra spend is worth it.
These figures are indicative ranges. The only accurate price is a written quote based on your site.
Exposed aggregate cost per m²
As a guide, exposed aggregate typically costs $120–$170/m² supplied and laid in 2026. Where you land in that range depends on the stone you choose, the type of seal, how big the area is and how much preparation the site needs.
How it compares to other finishes
| Finish | Typical cost (per m²) | Look & feel |
|---|---|---|
| Plain / standard concrete | $80 – $120 | Plain grey, broom or trowel finish |
| Coloured concrete | $100 – $150 | Solid colour, smooth finish |
| Exposed aggregate | $120 – $170 | Decorative stone, textured, good grip |
| Stamped / decorative | $130 – $180 | Patterned to mimic stone or pavers |
As a guide only. Prices shift with concrete and stone supply costs and site conditions.
The premium over plain concrete
Exposed aggregate generally costs about $30–$60/m² more than plain concrete. The extra covers:
- Decorative stone in the mix or seeded into the surface
- Extra labour to wash back, expose and finish the stone at the right time
- Sealing, which protects the finish and brings out the colour
On a 50m² driveway, that premium works out to roughly $1,500–$3,000 more than a plain pour, in exchange for a far more attractive and durable surface.
What changes the price
- Stone choice. Premium imported aggregates and specific colours cost more than standard local stone.
- Seal type and coats. A good penetrating or topical seal adds cost but protects your investment and needs re-doing periodically.
- Area size. Larger areas usually cost a little less per m²; small areas can cost more because the finishing crew and fixed costs spread over fewer metres.
- Site preparation. Excavation, base material, formwork and reinforcement all factor in, the same as any slab.
- Access. Difficult access can mean pumping or wheelbarrowing, which adds labour.
When exposed aggregate is worth it
Exposed aggregate earns its premium when:
- You want a finish that looks good for years without painting or recoating like a colour-through slab
- You need slip resistance around pools, paths or sloped driveways
- The driveway or entry is highly visible and you care about kerb appeal
- You want a surface that hides minor marks and dirt better than smooth concrete
For a purely functional slab hidden behind a shed, plain concrete usually makes more sense. For the front driveway, entry path or pool surround, exposed aggregate is often the better long-term value.
The coastal climate factor
Around Hervey Bay and Maryborough, surfaces take a beating from sun, salt air and heavy wet-season rain. A well-sealed exposed aggregate finish handles this well and its texture gives reliable grip even when wet, which matters on driveways and around pools. Keeping the seal up to date is the main maintenance task.
How to compare quotes
Make sure each quote spells out:
- The aggregate type and colour
- The seal type and number of coats
- Slab thickness, reinforcement and base prep
- Whether sealing maintenance is explained
Get an accurate exposed aggregate quote
The ranges here will help you budget, but the stone, seal and site all change the final figure. Fraser Coast Concreting provides free written quotes for exposed aggregate driveways, paths and pool surrounds across Hervey Bay, Maryborough, Rainbow Beach and Tin Can Bay. Request your free quote here and we’ll give you a clear, itemised price.