How Much Does an Exposed Aggregate Driveway Cost?

Exposed aggregate driveways cost between $140 to $220 per square metre. For a typical 30m² driveway, homeowners can expect to pay between $4,200 and $6,600 in total. A popular concrete driveway finish, exposed aggregate offers a textured, decorative surface that’s both slip-resistant and long-lasting.

In this guide, you’ll find average per-square-metre pricing, factors that influence total cost, and the typical add-ons that affect your budget.

Exposed aggregate driveways typically range from $140 to $220 per square metre. A 40m² project, for example, could cost between $5,600 and $8,800 in total. Surface treatments, edge detailing, and sealing will also affect the final cost. High-contrast aggregates or custom stone blends often increase the per-square-metre rate.

Installers may also charge minimum job fees on smaller areas, making short runs less cost-effective. Larger areas, on the other hand, may benefit from volume pricing, especially if multiple driveways or paths are poured in one visit.

Wondering how much does concrete slab cost? Read our blog for more details.

Here are the key factors affecting exposed aggregate driveway cost:

The larger the driveway, the higher the total price, though the per-square-metre rate may slightly drop on bigger jobs. Curved or multi-access layouts often require extra formwork and labour, which increases both material use and time on-site.

Decorative stones like granite, quartz, or coloured pebbles can raise the cost. Some finishes involve deeper exposure or advanced sealing techniques. A basic mix is more affordable, but a premium stone selection can push the rate toward the higher end of the scale.

Difficult terrain, slopes, or tight access will add cost due to extra labour or machine hire. If excavation, levelling, or clearing is required before pouring, this also raises the base rate. Flat, open blocks are faster and cheaper to work on.

A project may require earthmoving, concrete pumps, vibrators, and finishing tools—each of which adds cost. Labour ranges from $60 to $120 per hour in Melbourne. Projects needing multiple team members or weekend labour attract higher fees.

Want to understand broader concrete cost comparisons? Explore our full cost breakdowns for all driveway types.

The following are the most common additions for exposed aggregate driveways:

Borders in contrasting colours or finishes (e.g., plain concrete edges around exposed aggregate) cost extra. Decorative inlays, saw cuts, or curved designs increase labour time and may add $30 to $60 per linear metre.

Sealing helps protect the surface from stains, fading, and water damage. It also enhances the colour and texture. Expect to pay between $6 to $10 per square metre for quality sealing products and application.

Adding drainage channels or pits may be necessary for sloped sites or poor soil. Reinforcement with steel mesh or rebar increases durability but also raises material and labour costs. These upgrades can add $15 to $40 per m², depending on site needs.

Here are the steps to calculate a clear, reliable budget:

Multiply the driveway length by its width to get the surface area. If the shape is irregular, break it into rectangles or use a scaled site plan. Total square metres multiplied by the selected finish rate gives your material estimate.

Get at least 3 quotes and ask for itemised breakdowns. This should include excavation, reinforcement, sealing, and finishing costs. Clear quotes help you compare value and avoid hidden charges later in the process.

Allow a buffer of 10% to 15% for unexpected issues like weather delays, subsoil problems, or material changes. This ensures your budget holds even if minor changes or add-ons occur.