Exposed Aggregate vs. Plain Concrete Driveways: Which Is Right for You?
When it comes to choosing the perfect driveway for your home, concrete is a popular option due to its durability and low maintenance.
But once you’ve decided on concrete, you still have a choice to make: should you go for a simple, plain concrete driveway or opt for the more decorative exposed aggregate?
Both have their advantages, but they cater to different aesthetic preferences, budgets, and functional needs.
In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between exposed aggregate and plain concrete driveways to help you decide which option is right for your home.
What Is Plain Concrete?
Plain concrete, also known as standard or traditional concrete, is the simplest and most commonly used concrete type for driveways.
It has a smooth, uniform appearance and typically comes in a neutral grey color, although you can add pigments if you want a slightly different hue.
Appearance: Plain concrete has a sleek, minimalist look, which makes it a popular choice for homeowners seeking a clean, straightforward design. It’s smooth and consistent from end to end.
Cost: Plain concrete is generally more affordable than decorative options like exposed aggregate, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious homeowners.
Durability: Plain concrete is strong and can handle the weight of heavy vehicles. With proper maintenance, it can last for decades without major issues.
What Is Exposed Aggregate?
Exposed aggregate concrete is a decorative option that reveals the small stones or pebbles mixed within the concrete.
Instead of a smooth surface, exposed aggregate has a textured, stone-like appearance, offering both aesthetic appeal and slip resistance.
Appearance: Exposed aggregate adds a unique visual texture and can be customized with different types of stones or colors, making each driveway distinct. You can choose from a range of aggregate materials, including natural stones, glass, or colored pebbles, for a completely personalized look.
Cost: Exposed aggregate is typically more expensive than plain concrete due to the additional labor and materials involved. However, the higher price can be worth it for homeowners looking for a decorative finish.
Durability: Like plain concrete, exposed aggregate is highly durable and can withstand heavy loads. Its textured surface also provides extra grip, making it a great choice for areas prone to rain or for sloped driveways.
Key Differences Between Exposed Aggregate and Plain Concrete
1. Aesthetic Appeal
Plain Concrete: If you prefer a simple, understated look, plain concrete is the way to go. Its neutral appearance can easily blend in with most home styles without drawing attention to the driveway itself.
Exposed Aggregate: For homeowners who want their driveway to make a statement, exposed aggregate offers a more decorative, eye-catching option. The variety of textures and colors available can enhance the curb appeal of your home and make your driveway a standout feature.
2. Slip Resistance
Plain Concrete: While plain concrete can be finished with a broom to create a slip-resistant surface, it is generally smoother and can become slick when wet, especially if it’s sealed.
Exposed Aggregate: One of the biggest advantages of exposed aggregate is its naturally textured surface, which provides excellent slip resistance. This makes it a safer option in wet conditions, which is especially important in areas that experience heavy rainfall, like Brisbane.
3. Maintenance Requirements
Plain Concrete: Plain concrete is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning and resealing every few years to protect it from weathering, stains, and cracks. It is easier to maintain due to its smooth surface.
Exposed Aggregate: While also durable, exposed aggregate requires more frequent sealing than plain concrete to maintain its appearance and protect the stones from loosening. You’ll also need to be more careful with cleaning, as pressure washing can sometimes dislodge the aggregate if not done carefully.
4. Installation Process
Plain Concrete: The installation process for plain concrete is straightforward. The concrete is poured, leveled, and smoothed, making it quicker and less labor-intensive than decorative options.
Exposed Aggregate: Exposed aggregate takes more time and skill to install. After the concrete is poured, the surface layer is washed away to reveal the embedded stones. This extra step, combined with the careful selection and arrangement of the aggregate, adds to the overall labor and cost.
5. Cost
Plain Concrete: As mentioned earlier, plain concrete is generally more affordable than exposed aggregate. If you’re working with a tight budget and need a simple, functional driveway, plain concrete is the better choice.
Exposed Aggregate: The decorative finish of exposed aggregate comes at a higher cost due to the additional materials and labor required. However, many homeowners find the added aesthetic value worth the investment.
Which Option Is Best for You?
The decision between plain concrete and exposed aggregate comes down to your personal preferences, budget, and how you intend to use your driveway.
Choose plain concrete if:
You prefer a clean, minimalist look.
You’re looking for an affordable, no-fuss option.
You want a low-maintenance driveway that blends in with your home’s design.
Choose exposed aggregate if:
You want your driveway to be a standout feature of your home.
You’re looking for a driveway that offers extra slip resistance.
You don’t mind spending more for a decorative, long-lasting option.
Conclusion
Both plain concrete and exposed aggregate are excellent choices for driveways, but they offer different benefits in terms of aesthetics, cost, and maintenance.
If you’re seeking a simple and affordable option, plain concrete will serve you well.
However, if you want a driveway that adds character and curb appeal to your home, exposed aggregate is the way to go.
If you’re in Brisbane and need help deciding which option is best for your home, contact Scavate today.
Our experienced team can help you choose and install the perfect concrete driveway to suit your style and budget. Get in touch for a free quote!
