Exposed Driveway: How To Choose The Perfect Finish In Perth

Exposed aggregate driveways have become a hallmark of Perth’s residential streets, standing up to scorching summer temperatures while elevating the look of any outdoor setting. Beyond a practical surface for vehicles, these textured concrete finishes frame alfresco areas, pool surrounds and garden paths with timeless appeal and unmatched toughness.

Choosing the right exposed driveway involves more than selecting a stone size. Homeowners need to weigh finish style—light wash or full exposure—alongside slip-resistance ratings, maintenance cycles, budget considerations and compliance with stormwater and environmental regulations.

This article will guide you through every step: defining what an exposed driveway is; exploring its benefits in a hot climate; reviewing design and aggregate options; walking through site preparation, pouring and exposure techniques; outlining council approvals and drainage requirements; comparing cost factors; setting out a simple care routine; highlighting sustainable practices; and offering tips for choosing the ideal installer.

With decades of decorative concrete expertise across Perth, Terrastone Architectural Concrete combines custom finishes, premium materials and dedicated project management to deliver driveways that perform beautifully day after day. Let’s start by uncovering what makes an exposed driveway such a popular choice.

What Is an Exposed Driveway?

Exposed aggregate driveways combine robust performance with natural texture, making them a favourite in Perth’s climate. At its core, an exposed driveway is a concrete slab intentionally finished to reveal the stones, pebbles or recycled glass embedded within. This exposed surface offers not only a distinctive look but also enhanced slip resistance and durability under high-traffic conditions.

Whether you’re eyeing a bold, full-exposure finish or prefer a subtle wash that hints at aggregate beneath, understanding the technique is key to choosing the right style for your home. Below, we break down the basic method and show how it stacks up against other decorative concrete options.

Definition and Technique

An exposed driveway starts as a conventional concrete pour mixed with decorative aggregates—ranging from river pebbles and crushed granite to colourful recycled glass. Once the slab is placed and has begun to set, the top layer of cement paste is carefully removed. This reveals the underlying stones in all their natural or coloured glory.

The exposure process can be achieved by hand washing and brushing, mechanical abrasive blasting or applying a chemical surface retarder. Each method strikes a balance between labour intensity, finish depth and project size. For a more detailed walkthrough of these steps, visit our exposed aggregate guide.

Comparison with Other Decorative Concrete Finishes

Decorative concrete comes in many forms, each with its own look and performance profile:

• Honed concrete offers a smooth, matte finish by grinding the surface. It’s ideal for modern interiors or alfresco areas where a sleek, minimalistic look is desired, but it lacks the pronounced texture of exposed aggregate.
• Polished concrete takes grinding further, producing a glossy, mirror-like sheen. While stunning indoors, it can be slippery when wet, making it less suited to driveways or pool surrounds.
• Coloured concrete integrates pigments into the mix, providing a uniform hue throughout the slab. It’s easy to match to architectural themes, but the single tone may not offer the same depth or visual interest as exposed stones.
• Liquid limestone mimics the appearance of natural limestone with a smooth, earthy finish. It’s excellent for patios and entryways, though its softer surface can be more prone to scratching and requires more frequent sealing.

Exposed aggregate shines when you need a hard-wearing, slip-resistant surface that showcases natural stone elegance—perfect for driveways, pool edges and alfresco dining zones where both form and function matter.

Benefits of Exposed Driveways in Perth

Perth homeowners demand surfaces that can handle our harsh summers, heavy traffic and occasional downpours without losing their appeal. Exposed aggregate driveways tick all those boxes. By showcasing natural stones and aggregates, they not only look striking against the backdrop of your home but also stand up to the local climate and daily wear and tear with minimal fuss.

Durability and Weather Resistance

Concrete’s innate strength makes it ideal for Perth’s extremes—intense UV, high heat and heavy vehicle loads. When you opt for an exposed aggregate finish, you’re essentially embedding robust stones like river pebbles or crushed granite into the surface. Those aggregates distribute loads more evenly and shield the softer cement matrix from abrasion.

Terrastone installs exposed aggregate driveways that routinely last decades under local conditions. For real-world proof, check out our case examples of exposed aggregate driveways. You’ll see how well these surfaces resist cracking, spalling and colour fade, even in full Perth sun.

Slip Resistance and Safety

Safety is a top priority for any driveway, especially when kids, pets or guests are on the move. The textured finish of exposed aggregate offers a natural grip underfoot and under tyre. In fact, these surfaces are often tested to achieve a P-rating under the AS 4586-2013 standard. Common test methods include:

• Wet Pendulum: Measures skid resistance when the surface is wet
• Dry Floor Friction: Assesses the coefficient of friction under dry conditions

By selecting the right aggregate size and exposure depth, Terrastone can tailor your driveway’s slip resistance to suit your family’s needs. For more on safety classifications, see the AS 4586-2013 specification.

Low Maintenance Requirements

One of the biggest appeals of exposed aggregate driveways is how little upkeep they demand. A quick sweep or hose-down usually clears dust, leaves and light debris. You won’t need to worry about weeds sprouting through joints or moss taking hold, as you might with pavers.

To keep the colours vivid and protect against minor staining, we recommend resealing every three to five years. Beyond that, you can enjoy a long-lasting, attractive finish without annual painting or intensive cleaning regimes. In short, an exposed aggregate driveway gives you more freedom to enjoy your outdoor spaces and less time worrying about maintenance.

Types of Exposed Aggregate Finishes

Choosing the right finish for your exposed driveway starts with understanding how much of the stone you want on display and which method best suits your project’s size and budget. Below, we explore the three main ways you can tailor an exposed aggregate surface: by controlling exposure depth, picking a suitable technique for revealing the stone, and selecting the aggregate itself.

Light Wash vs. Full Exposure

A light wash finish offers a hint of texture, where only the smallest pebbles peek through the cement paste. It’s perfect if you’re after a subtle, almost polished look that’s still slip-resistant underfoot. Because you’re only removing a thin layer, the process is quicker and slightly more cost-effective—ideal for small driveways or areas where you don’t want the stone to dominate.

By contrast, a full exposure finish strips away more cement to reveal the largest aggregates in their full glory. This bold approach creates a dramatic, textured surface that really shows off river pebbles, quartz or recycled glass. It does take longer and requires more intensive labour, so you can expect a higher price tag. But for many Perth homeowners, the extra investment pays off in kerb appeal and longevity.

Hand vs. Mechanical Exposure Techniques

When you’re working on a compact area or prefer a hands-on approach, washing and brushing by hand remains a tried-and-true method. A stiff nylon brush combined with gentle water sprays lets you control exactly how much paste you remove. It takes a little more elbow grease, but the precision is hard to beat for feature strips, borders or small courtyards.

For larger driveways, mechanical methods speed things up. Abrasive blasting—using sandblasting or shot blasting—can efficiently reveal aggregates across wide areas, though it requires specialised equipment and training. Chemical surface retarders are another popular choice: sprayed on the wet concrete, they slow down the top layer’s set time so you can wash it away 12–24 hours later. This technique balances speed and consistency, but timing is crucial—leave it on too long, and you’ll under-expose; rinse it off too soon, and you risk knocking stones loose.

Decorative Aggregate Options

The beauty of exposed aggregate is in the stone you choose. Common selections include:

• River pebbles for a smooth, organic look
• Crushed granite or quartz for speckled, durable finishes
• Recycled glass chips for pops of colour and eco-friendly flair

Stone size and shape influence both grip and appearance: finer aggregates yield a smoother surface under bare feet, while larger, angular stones increase traction. Mix design also plays a part—adjusting the ratio of sand to stone shifts the balance between cement paste and rock, affecting colour depth and texture.

Every project is unique, so it pays to weigh your options carefully. For a deeper dive into aggregate selection and how it impacts finish and performance, check out our exposed aggregate considerations.

Design Considerations and Customisation

Designing your exposed driveway is about more than functionality—it’s an opportunity to reflect your home’s personality and tie your outdoor spaces together. From selecting the perfect palette to incorporating bespoke details, careful choices in colour, texture and layout can transform a simple driveway into a cohesive element of your landscape. Below, we explore key design considerations and customisation options to help you achieve a finish that complements your home and lifestyle.

Colour and Texture Selection

The colours you choose set the tone for your entire driveway. Aggregates come in a spectrum of hues—earthy browns, cool greys, warm reds, or even vibrant recycled glass chips. Pair these with a concrete base tint that either contrasts for definition or blends for a seamless look. For instance, a charcoal base with pale quartz aggregates offers striking contrast, while a sandy beige concrete mixed with light pebbles creates a soft, coastal feel.

Texture plays a pivotal role too. Smaller, rounded aggregates yield a smooth underfoot surface ideal for barefoot use around pools, whereas larger, angular stones deliver pronounced grip and a more rugged appearance. Experiment with sample boards or swatches to see how sunlight and shadow play across different finishes. For a fuller exploration of visual possibilities, take a look at our decorative finishes overview.

Patterns, Borders and Inlays

Beyond colour and texture, patterns and borders can introduce architectural interest and define distinct areas. Straight-edged borders lend a clean, modern aesthetic, while gentle curves soften transitions and echo garden beds or pathways. Consider feature strips—narrow bands of contrasting aggregate or coloured concrete—to frame the driveway, highlight entry points or guide the eye toward focal elements like a front door.

Inlays offer another level of personalisation. You might embed your house number, family crest or a geometric motif into the concrete for a one-of-a-kind statement. When planning decorative details, keep practicalities in mind: ensure borders are flush to avoid trip hazards, and maintain adequate falls for surface drainage. Well-designed patterns not only enhance kerb appeal but also support functionality.

Coordinating with Outdoor Living Areas

A truly harmonious outdoor environment extends your home’s style across every surface. By matching the aggregate mix or finish of your driveway to adjacent patios, alfresco spaces and pool surrounds, you create a continuous flow that feels both deliberate and inviting. For example, using the same full-exposure river pebbles around your pool edge ties the areas together, while a lighter wash finish on nearby entertaining zones establishes subtle contrast.

Terrastone’s seamless PoolEdge solutions make it easy to transition from driveway to pool surround without unsightly joins or changes in level. This approach not only looks polished but also ensures safety—no abrupt edges or uneven surfaces to trip over. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet swim, a coordinated palette and texture unify your outdoor living areas into a cohesive, high-end retreat.

Site Preparation and Installation Process

A durable, attractive exposed driveway begins long before the first stone is revealed. Careful preparation and a methodical installation sequence set the stage for a finish that performs beautifully for decades. Here’s how Terrastone approaches each critical phase.

Planning, Excavation and Base Preparation

Before breaking ground, we conduct a detailed site survey to map out levels, drainage falls and any council setback requirements. Our project manager handles permit applications and liaises with the City of Perth (or your local council), so approvals arrive smoothly.

Once paperwork is in place, excavation begins. We remove existing material—topsoil, old slabs and asphalt—to a depth of 150–200 mm, allowing room for a compacted sub-base and the concrete slab. The exposed sub-grade is proof-rolled to identify soft spots, then compacted using a vibrating plate. Next, a 100–150 mm layer of crushed rock or road base is spread and compacted in lifts, forming a stable platform. Finally, we check falls to ensure water drains away from structures. For design tips and permit guidelines, see our driveway planning guide.

Pouring and Curing

With the foundation set, we deliver our custom concrete mix—precisely proportioned with your chosen aggregates—direct to the site. Whether via concrete truck or wheelbarrow, the mix is poured to a typical depth of 100 mm. We then screed the slab with straightedges, bullfloat to smooth the surface, and employ vibration to eliminate air pockets and settle aggregates evenly.

Curing is vital for strength and crack prevention. We protect the slab with damp hessian or plastic sheeting for 24–48 hours, shielding it from wind and harsh sun. This controlled moisture retention promotes even hydration, reducing shrinkage cracks and ensuring a robust base before exposure works begin.

Surface Exposure Techniques

Timing is everything when revealing your aggregates. At Terrastone, we often apply a chemical surface retarder to freshly placed concrete. After 12–24 hours—once the underlying paste has firmed up—we gently hose off the top layer. A soft-bristle brush helps tease out the stones without dislodging them.

For larger driveways, abrasive blasting can accelerate exposure, but it requires specialist equipment and expertise. Whichever method we choose, our team works in consistent bands to maintain uniform depth, carefully finishing edges and transitions to avoid patchiness. The result is a cohesive, slip-resistant surface that highlights the beauty of your selected aggregates.

Regulatory and Stormwater Management Requirements

Installing an exposed driveway isn’t just about aesthetics and performance—it also involves navigating a web of local regulations and environmental standards. Ensuring compliance with council codes and adopting smart stormwater management practices helps protect your property, your neighbours and the wider Perth community from flooding and pollution. Below, we outline the key requirements you’ll need to address before, during and after construction.

Council Approvals and Local Codes

Before any excavation or concrete pour, check your local council’s rules for driveway construction. In the City of Perth and surrounding LGAs, you may need:

• A crossover permit for work in the verge or footpath
• Development approval if you’re widening an existing driveway or altering drainage patterns
• Engineering drawings detailing surface levels, materials and stormwater controls

Approval timelines vary but typically range from two to six weeks depending on application complexity. Terrastone’s project management service takes care of all council liaison, permit applications and compliance paperwork on your behalf—saving you time and minimising the risk of costly delays.

Permeable Paving Principles

Traditional concrete surfaces can exacerbate stormwater runoff, leading to localised flooding and pollutants entering waterways. Permeable exposed aggregate addresses this by allowing water to infiltrate the surface. Key points from the Western Australian Stormwater Management Manual include:

• Designing surfaces with enough void space (minimum permeability rate of 5 mm/s) to absorb rainfall onsite
• Using graded aggregates and gaps between stones to promote infiltration
• Incorporating sub-base drainage layers to collect and filter water before it enters the soil

By selecting a permeable finish, you not only meet best-practice environmental guidelines but also contribute to groundwater recharge and reduce pressure on stormwater drains. For full specifications, refer to the manual at WA Stormwater Management Manual.

Drainage Solutions and Erosion Control

Even permeable driveways need well-designed drainage paths to handle heavy downpours and prevent erosion. Consider these strategies:

• Integrate linear drains or grated channels along edges to capture surface flow
• Install French drains or gravel swales beside the driveway to disperse water into surrounding garden beds
• Grade the slab with a minimum fall of 1–2% (10–20 mm per metre) away from buildings to guide runoff safely
• Create vegetated buffer strips—low-profile plant zones—that slow water velocity and trap sediment

Effective drainage secures your investment, guards neighbouring properties against water damage and maintains the integrity of your landscaping. With Terrastone’s holistic approach, your exposed driveway will meet all regulatory requirements while contributing positively to Perth’s urban environment.

Cost Factors and Budgeting

Understanding the financial side of an exposed driveway ensures you can plan confidently and avoid unwelcome surprises. Below, we break down the major cost components and highlight what to expect when budgeting for your project.

Materials and Labour Expenses

The most significant line items in your quote will typically be materials and labour. In Perth, you can expect exposed aggregate driveways to range between $120 and $180 per square metre. This rate covers:

• Choice of aggregate: river pebbles, crushed granite or recycled glass all come with different price tags
• Concrete mix and admixtures: coloured tints, sealers and surface retarders
• Site preparation: excavation, sub‐base import and compaction
• Installation method: hand‐washed finishes tend to be less expensive than full‐exposure with chemical retarders or abrasive blasting
• Labour: skilled crews, project management and specialised equipment hire

Keep in mind that smaller driveways often have a higher per-square-metre cost than larger installations, since setup and mobilisation expenses are spread over fewer square metres.

Long-Term Value and Return on Investment

While the initial cost of exposed aggregate may exceed that of plain concrete or basic pavers, the long-term benefits often outweigh the extra outlay:

• Durability: a professionally installed exposed driveway can last 25–30 years with minimal repairs
• Low maintenance: routine sweeping and resealing every 3–5 years keeps your surface looking fresh, saving you on ongoing upkeep
• Kerb appeal: a striking, custom finish can lift the perceived value of your property—research suggests decorative driveways can add 3–5% to resale price
• Cost comparisons: unlike pavers, there’s no risk of weeds, shifting blocks or repeated joint repairs

Overall, the robust performance and aesthetic boost provided by exposed aggregate typically deliver a stronger return on investment than cheaper alternatives.

Factors Influencing Final Quote

Every project is unique, and several variables can push your quote up or down:

• Design complexity: borders, inlays, curved edges and contrasting aggregate bands require extra labour and precision
• Site access and terrain: steep driveways, narrow laneways or the need for traffic management add time and equipment costs
• Existing surface removal: breaking out old concrete or asphalt, plus waste disposal, can increase excavation charges
• Drainage and sub-base requirements: rocky soil, high water tables or a desire for permeable finishes may call for expanded base layers or French drains
• Weather delays: extended periods of rain or extreme heat can force contractors to pause work, potentially affecting project timing and overheads

To keep your budget on track, request a detailed, itemised quote that clearly separates materials, labour, site-preparation and any council or permit fees. A transparent breakdown lets you compare providers “apples-to-apples” and spot where you might scale back or upgrade certain features.

Maintenance and Care

Even the toughest exposed aggregate driveway will benefit from a little TLC. A straightforward maintenance routine keeps the surface looking sharp, protects colour and texture, and extends its life. Below, we cover simple cleaning, sealing recommendations and basic repairs so your driveway remains a standout feature of your home.

Routine Cleaning and Stain Removal

Regular cleaning prevents dirt build-up and makes stubborn stains easier to tackle.

• Sweep weekly with a stiff-bristled broom to remove leaves, twigs and loose grit.
• Every few months (or after heavy rain), give the surface a gentle rinse with a garden hose or low-pressure washer.
• For light grime, mix a mild pH-neutral detergent with water and scrub with a soft-bristled brush. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry.
• Oil and grease stains can be absorbed by sprinkling cat litter or sawdust over fresh spills. After an hour or two, sweep up the absorbent material and apply a concrete-safe degreaser, scrubbing lightly before rinsing.
• Rust or iron stains require a specialist remover. Always test any cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous patch first to confirm it won’t discolour your aggregates.

Prompt attention to spills and debris prevents them from becoming deep-set stains and keeps your driveway safer underfoot.

Sealing: Frequency and Best Products

A quality sealer enhances aggregate colours, reduces water penetration and guards against staining.

• Plan to reseal every 3–5 years, depending on traffic and exposure to sun. You’ll know it’s time when water no longer beads on the surface.
• Film-forming acrylic sealers leave a slight sheen, highlighting the contrast between cement and stone. They offer good stain protection but can wear thin in high-traffic zones.
• Penetrating sealers soak into the concrete, preserving the natural matte appearance and allowing the slab to “breathe.” They’re less prone to peeling and often last longer in harsh climates.
• Always apply sealer to a clean, dry driveway. Use a pump sprayer or roller to spread two thin coats, working from one end to the other to avoid lap marks.
• Avoid sealing in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight—early morning or late afternoon on a calm, dry day is best. Allow at least 24–48 hours of cure time before driving on the surface.

A well-chosen sealer reduces maintenance headaches and keeps your driveway looking fresh for years.

Repairing Cracks and Chips

Small cracks and chips are almost inevitable over decades of use, but they can be fixed quickly before they worsen.

• For hairline cracks (under 3 mm), apply a premixed concrete repair compound or a matching aggregate-cement grout. Push it into the crack with a trowel, smooth the surface and let it cure.
• Larger cracks or shallow chips may need a more robust patching mortar. Choose a product that contains similar aggregate for a seamless blend.
• Clean out any loose debris or dust before patching, and dampen the area slightly to help the repair compound bond.
• If damage is extensive or the surface appearance is uneven, consider a professional resurfacing. Terrastone can match your original finish and ensure the repair integrates flawlessly.

Addressing minor damage swiftly prevents water ingress and freeze-thaw deterioration, so your driveway stays strong and attractive for the long haul.

Environmental and Sustainability Considerations

Modern homeowners increasingly look for materials and designs that not only look great but also tread lightly on the planet. Exposed aggregate driveways provide several opportunities to reduce environmental impact—from the stones you embed to the way water moves across your property. By making informed choices around aggregates, sealers and surface design, you can create a driveway that’s as kind on local ecosystems as it is on the eye.

Terrastone’s approach considers the cradle-to-grave footprint of each project. That means exploring recycled materials, specifying low-emission products and encouraging permeable designs that support natural water cycles. Let’s dive into the key sustainability factors to bear in mind when planning your exposed driveway.

Recycled Aggregates and Low-VOC Sealers

One of the simplest ways to up your project’s eco-credentials is by choosing recycled aggregate. Crushed concrete, reclaimed brick, recycled glass chips or industrial by-products like slag can replace new quarry stones without compromising durability or aesthetics. Not only does this divert waste from landfill, but it also reduces the energy and emissions involved in extracting and transporting virgin materials.

Equally important is the sealer you choose. Traditional solvent-based sealers can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that affect indoor and outdoor air quality. Low-VOC or water-based sealers minimise those emissions while still protecting your driveway from stains and UV damage. They often perform just as well as conventional products, so you won’t have to sacrifice durability for sustainability.

Heat Island Mitigation

Perth’s summers can turn hard surfaces into heat traps. Dark-toned, dense materials absorb and radiate warmth, contributing to the urban heat island effect. Fortunately, exposed aggregate offers a simple remedy: opt for lighter-coloured aggregates—think pale quartz, buff granite or white recycled glass—to reflect more sunlight and keep the surface cooler underfoot.

Pairing light aggregates with a similarly pale concrete base or neutral tint further reduces heat absorption. In practice, this can slash surface temperatures by several degrees, making driveways and adjoining alfresco spaces more comfortable during long summer days. Cooler surfaces also place less thermal stress on the concrete, which can prolong the life of your driveway.

Water Permeability and Groundwater Recharge

Traditional concrete can create run-off headaches, sending rainwater racing into storm drains and carrying pollutants with it. A permeable exposed aggregate design changes the game by allowing water to filter between stones and seep into the sub-base. With the right aggregate gradation and void space, you can achieve infiltration rates that meet or exceed best-practice guidelines, reducing flood risk and recharging groundwater.

On a larger scale, these small pockets of infiltration add up—dampening peak stormwater flows, trapping sediments, and naturally filtering out contaminants. Whether you choose a fully permeable driveway or integrate discreet drainage channels and vegetated swales, you’ll be helping to protect local waterways and maintain healthy soil moisture levels in your garden beds.

By considering recycled content, low-VOC sealers, light-reflective aggregates and permeable designs, you’ll not only create an exposed aggregate driveway that looks stunning but also one that supports Perth’s environment for years to come.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Selecting the right installer is just as important as choosing the right finish. A skilled, reputable contractor will ensure proper site preparation, flawless exposure techniques and long-term performance. Here’s how to make sure you partner with the best team for your exposed driveway project.

Evaluating Experience and Credentials

Start by confirming the credentials that demonstrate competence and reliability:

• Licences and Insurance
  Verify that the contractor holds all required building licences and carries public liability insurance. This protects you in case of on-site accidents or damage.
• Specialisation in Decorative Concrete
  Look for companies that focus on architectural and decorative concrete. Specialists will have deeper knowledge of exposure depths, aggregate mixes and sealers.
• Track Record and Portfolio
  Request to see recent project photos or visit display centres to inspect finished driveways in person. A varied portfolio shows they can handle different styles, from light-wash finishes to full-exposure paving.
• Client References and Reviews
  Speak directly with past clients to understand the contractor’s communication, reliability and workmanship. Online reviews and testimonials can also offer insight into job satisfaction and after-service support.

Essential Questions and Quote Comparison

Once you’ve narrowed your list, use detailed questions to compare providers on an even footing:

1. Project Timeline
   “What is the expected start date, duration and cure period?” This clarifies when your driveway will be ready for use.
2. Warranty and Guarantees
   Ask about workmanship warranties, product guarantees and any follow-up services offered for repairs or resealing.
3. Sub-contractor Use
   Find out which trades they employ directly and what tasks might be outsourced. Consistent crews often deliver more reliable results.
4. Materials and Mix Design
   Request specifics on aggregate types, concrete strength (MPa rating) and sealer brands. Ensure these align with your performance and aesthetic requirements.
5. Site-Preparation Details
   Confirm how they handle excavation, drainage solutions and council approvals. A thorough approach here prevents costly fixes later.
6. Itemised Quote Breakdown
   Compare quotes by scrutinising line items—site works, material costs, labour and any administration or permit fees. Transparent pricing helps you spot unnecessary extras or potential savings.

Why Terrastone Architectural Concrete Stands Out

With Perth’s decorative-concrete market growing fast, Terrastone Architectural Concrete remains a cut above the rest:

• Decorative Concrete Expertise
  Our sole focus on architectural finishes means every team member—from estimator to finisher—knows how to achieve consistent, high-quality results.
• Dedicated Project Manager
  You’ll work with one point of contact (Adam Burvill) who supervises everything from council applications through to final sealing. No mixed messages, no dropped details.
• Custom Mix Capability
  We partner with leading aggregate suppliers to offer an extensive palette of stones, colours and textures. Every batch is tailored to your design vision and functional needs.
• Perth-Wide Display Centres
  Visit our showrooms to view full-scale samples and speak face-to-face about your project. Seeing real finishes in different light conditions makes decision-making easier.
• End-to-End Service
  From initial concept and 3D design mock-ups through to ongoing maintenance advice, Terrastone manages every aspect of your driveway. Our goal is a seamless experience and a finish that lasts for decades.

By choosing Terrastone Architectural Concrete, you’re not just hiring a contractor—you’re partnering with a team that lives and breathes decorative concrete in Perth. Experience, accountability and a commitment to excellence mean your exposed driveway will be as reliable as it is striking.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even with the best materials and a great design, small missteps can undermine an exposed driveway’s performance and appearance. Below are the most frequent pitfalls we see—and how to steer clear of them.

Inadequate Site Preparation

One of the biggest mistakes is skimping on site preparation and sub-base work. If the existing soil isn’t properly removed, compacted and graded, your driveway can suffer from uneven settlement, cracking or standing water. Soft spots in the sub-grade lead to flexing under load, while poor drainage may allow moisture to erode your base layer from underneath.

To avoid these issues:

• Always proof-roll the exposed sub-grade with a heavy plate compactor to identify weak areas.
• Install a minimum 100–150 mm of crushed rock or road base, compacted in layers, to create a rock-solid foundation.
• Check and set falls of at least 1–2% to direct water away from structures and into designed drainage channels.

Terrastone’s project managers oversee every step of sub-grade preparation, ensuring your driveway rests on a consistently firm and well-drained base before any concrete is poured.

Incorrect Timing in Exposure Process

Removing too much—or too little—cement paste during the exposure stage leads to patchy results. Under-exposed patches can look dull, while over-exposed areas risk loose aggregates and an inconsistent surface depth. Both scenarios compromise aesthetics and might even reduce slip resistance.

To hit the sweet spot:

• Apply a chemical surface retarder at the correct moment (usually within 30 minutes of finishing), then monitor the concrete temperature and humidity.
• Perform a small test panel to gauge exposure time before tackling the full driveway.
• Rinse and brush in even, systematic bands to ensure a uniform reveal of your chosen stones.

Our teams use precise timing protocols and preview samples to guarantee that every square metre of your driveway enjoys a flawless, even finish.

Neglecting Ongoing Maintenance

An exposed aggregate driveway may feel nearly maintenance-free, but skipping regular care invites premature wear. Dirt and organic debris can clog pores, while untreated oil spills or rust stains penetrate deeper over time. Without periodic sealing, UV rays and weathering will dull your stone colours and open the concrete to staining.

Keep your driveway at its best by:

• Sweeping weekly and giving it a gentle rinse every few months.
• Removing stains promptly—use a concrete-safe degreaser for oil and a specialist rust remover when needed.
• Resealing every 3–5 years with a quality acrylic or penetrating sealer to lock in colour and protect against abrasion.

Terrastone provides a tailored maintenance schedule at handover, complete with product recommendations and refresher services, so your driveway remains as striking as the day it was installed.

Taking the Next Step Towards Your Ideal Driveway

You’ve explored the ins and outs of exposed driveways—from understanding exposure levels and aggregate choices to navigating site preparation, council approvals, cost factors and long-term upkeep. Armed with this knowledge, you’re ready to make informed decisions that balance style, safety and sustainability to achieve a durable, eye-catching finish for your Perth home.

Terrastone Architectural Concrete is here to turn your vision into reality. Our dedicated project manager will guide you through colour and texture selections, organise swatches and 3D mock-ups, handle all council liaising and guarantees a seamless installation. Visit Terrastone Architectural Concrete to browse our display centres, arrange a free, no-obligation consultation or request a detailed quote today.
https://terrastone.com.au