Decorative concrete is a durable, highly versatile and visually striking solution that has become a leading choice for Perth’s homeowners who are looking to elevate the look of their property’s internal and external spaces. But with so many finishes, styles and colour options available on the market, selecting the right one can be overwhelming.
Making the wrong decision can result in a mismatched visual aesthetic, functional issues, increased maintenance requirements or premature wear of the surface. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the most common mistakes people make when selecting decorative concrete finishes for their property, along with practical tips to help you get it right the first time.
Mistake #1: Choosing Style Over Function
When homeowners prioritise appearance without considering the practicality of their surface, they often run into issues later down the line. One of the biggest missteps is selecting a decorative concrete finish that looks great, but doesn’t suit the environment in which it’s being used.
For example, polished concrete delivers a sleek and reflective surface ideal for indoor spaces. But in outdoor areas – particularly on sloped driveways or around swimming pools – it can become dangerously slippery. In these locations, honed or exposed aggregate finishes are far better suited due to their natural slip resistance properties. Any reputable decorative concrete contractor will recommend against using polished concrete in outdoor spaces.
Another factor to consider is heat absorption. Darker coloured concrete can become hot underfoot in Perth’s summer, making it uncomfortable or unsafe for barefoot areas like patios and pool surrounds. Light coloured decorative concrete or liquid limestone may be a better option for these applications.
The aesthetic appeal of your surface should always be paired with functionality considerations. At Terrastone, we help clients find finishes that look great, but are also durable, safe and fit for purpose.
Mistake #2: Not Considering Long Term Maintenance
Concrete is generally considered a low maintenance material, but your upkeep requirements differ depending on the finish you select for your property.
Exposed aggregate, for example, is eye catching and slip resistant but needs more regular sealing than plain concrete to maintain its appearance and protect against stains. Honed concrete offers a smoother finish with slightly easier maintenance but still benefits from periodic resealing. In contrast, brushed or plain grey concrete is more forgiving, though it may lack the visual interest when compared to other decorative finish options.
A common mistake is underestimating how daily use, exposure to elements or nearby landscaping can impact your decorative concrete surface over time. Failing to budget or plan for periodic maintenance can lead to premature wear on your surface.
At Terrastone, we educate every client about their care requirements for the chosen finish. Whether you’re after a statement concrete driveway or a functional alfresco area, we’ll make sure you understand how to maintain it so it stays looking good for years to come.
Mistake #3: Poor Colour & Design Matching
Decorative concrete is highly customisable, which is one of its major strengths – but also a potential pitfall if you don’t consider the broader aesthetic of your home. A poorly chosen colour pattern can clash with your landscaping, façade or fencing, diminishing your property’s overall appeal rather than enhancing it in a cohesive way.
Some homeowners opt for bold colours or trendy finishes without first considering how they’ll age or how the surface looks under different lighting. Others go too neutral and end up with a surface that looks unfinished or dull.
The trick is balance: select colours and textures that work harmoniously with your home’s architectural style, roof colour, render and surrounding environment. Sample boards and swatches are essential tools for making the right call for your property.
We recommend viewing your chosen finish in natural sunlight, as well as next to your home’s key features before making a final call. It’s a simple step that can prevent regret in the long term while ensuring a cohesive result.
Mistake #4: Overcomplicating The Design
More isn’t always better, particularly with decorative concrete. One common mistake we encounter is overdesign – trying to pack too many textures, colours, patterns or borders into one space. While decorative concrete allows for creativity, too many elements can cause visual overwhelm, reducing the impact of the surface.
For example, combining exposed aggregate with inlays or stencil patterns might seem exciting, but it can quickly look chaotic, particularly in smaller spaces. Complex designs also tend to carry an elevated price tag and time consuming installation process.
Instead, we recommend opting for a clean and purposeful approach. A simple honed finish with a contrasting border or a carefully selected aggregate mix can deliver a premium look and feel without being overdone. Consider the architectural lines of your property and subtly mirror them in your concrete design.
Our design consultants can help you strike the right balance, ensuring your concrete surface enhances the aesthetic of your home without overpowering it.
Mistake #5: Not Working With A Specialist
Decorative concrete is not a one-size-fits-all product, yet many homeowners attempt to cut corners by using generalist tradespeople or DIY kits that don’t deliver the same quality as professional installation.
A specialist understands how factors like drainage, slope, climate and foot traffic impact the performance of each finish. Specialists can also generally offer access to a wider range of concrete mixes, textured sealers and local expertise that a general contractor may lack.
At Terrastone, we don’t just poor concrete surfaces, we craft them. Our team works closely in collaboration with each client throughout the process, offering design advice, material samples and site-specific recommendations to ensure the best result.
Engaging a specialist also reduces the likelihood of encountering issues with poor finishing, premature wear and mismatched colours – all problems that are far more expensive to fix after installation.
Tips For Getting It Right
Want to ensure you get the most out of your decorative concrete investment? Here’s a few expert tips to help guide your planning:
- Think Long Term: Select finishes that will stand up to wear and complement your property for years to come.
- Test in Place: Always review samples in the actual location and lighting conditions (if possible).
- Consider Functionality First: Match the finish to how the space will be used for best results.
- Stick To A Theme: Keep colours and textures consistent with your home’s exterior.
- Partner With A Professional: A reputable specialist, like Terrastone, will help you make the right choice.
By approaching the project with clear goals and the right guidance, you’ll achieve a durable, beautiful surface that adds long term value to your property.
Final Thoughts
Decorative concrete offers endless possibilities to personalise your space and boost the visual appeal of your home. However, selecting the wrong finish (or working with the wrong contractor) can quickly turn an exciting project into a costly lesson.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be better equipped to make smart design decisions that combine style, durability and practicality. Whether you’re revamping your driveway, pool area or outdoor entertaining zone, thoughtful planning goes a long way.
If you’re ready to explore your decorative concrete options with expert support, talk to the team at Terrastone. We’ll help you select a finish that looks great, performs beautifully for your home and stands up to the Perth climate.
