ExposedaggregatecostinAdelaide(2026)
A 60m2 exposed aggregate Adelaide driveway runs $9,500 to $15,500. That is $50 to $90 per m2 above plain concrete. Stone choice and exposure depth shift the price within the band. Sealing at 28 days adds $400 to $800.
Stone choice and price in Adelaide
| Stone type | Premium per m2 | 60m2 total range |
|---|---|---|
| River pebble (mixed) | $50-$60 | $9,500-$12,000 |
| Charcoal granite | $60-$75 | $10,500-$14,000 |
| Quartz (white or coloured) | $75-$90 | $12,000-$15,500 |
Plain concrete base $6,500 to $10,500. Premium is per m2 above that base. 60m2 2026 Adelaide rates. Sealing not included.
Exposure depth and labour cost
The exposure depth - how much of the aggregate stone is revealed above the cement paste surface - is controlled by the timing of the broom wash. A shallow exposure (8 to 12mm of stone revealed) is faster to execute and less technically demanding. A deeper exposure (15 to 20mm) requires more precise timing and takes longer, adding $8 to $15 per m2 in labour.
The retarder chemical applied before pour extends the wash window. Standard retarder is included in most exposed aggregate quotes. Heavy retarder (for large pour areas or hot pour days) may add $100 to $200 to the total.
Sample panels for jobs above $5,000 add approximately $300 to $600 for a 0.5 to 1m2 test panel. They are effectively mandatory on any job where the finish needs to match an inspiration photo or a specific stone source. The panel cost is worth 10x its price when it prevents a finish dispute.
BWC threshold and exposed aggregate
Most exposed aggregate driveways in the $12,000 to $15,500 range cross $20,000 inc GST when site preparation, crossover work, driveway extension, or additional features are added. Above that threshold, the concreter must hold a current SA BWC licence and take out Builders Warranty Insurance before starting.
We disclose the CBS-issued BWC licence number on every quote above the threshold. Full details at the BWC licensing guide.
Related guides
Exposed aggregate service - the exposure process, stone selection, and sealing explained.
Decorative concrete comparison - exposed aggregate vs stamped vs polished external.
How to choose a concreter - checklist for any decorative concrete quote.