When planning a new concrete driveway, patio, or floor, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: Should I go for polished concrete or exposed aggregate?
Both finishes are popular choices for Melbourne homes and commercial properties, offering strength, longevity, and style — but they each have unique characteristics that make them better suited to certain environments and design goals.
In this detailed guide, the team at Best & Less Concrete breaks down the key differences, pros, cons, costs, and design ideas so you can confidently choose the right surface for your project.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into which one to pick, it’s essential to understand what makes these two concrete finishes distinct.
Polished Concrete:
This surface is achieved by grinding and polishing a cured concrete slab with special machines. The result is a smooth, glossy, and reflective finish often seen in modern homes, offices, and showrooms. It’s available in different levels of sheen — from matte to high-gloss — and can expose varying degrees of aggregate depending on the look you want.
Exposed Aggregate:
Exposed aggregate is created by removing the thin top layer of cement paste from freshly poured concrete, revealing the decorative stones (aggregate) within. The finish has a textured, natural look and offers excellent traction, making it ideal for outdoor surfaces like driveways, pathways, and pool areas.
Aesthetics and Design Appeal
Both finishes are stunning in their own way, but they create very different visual effects.
Polished Concrete Look:
- Sleek, contemporary, and elegant
- Reflective surface adds brightness and a spacious feel
- Available in a variety of colours and levels of gloss
- Complements minimalist or industrial-style interiors
Exposed Aggregate Look:
- Textured, organic, and decorative
- Available in endless colour combinations by choosing different aggregates
- Adds a natural, earthy appearance perfect for landscaping and exterior design
- Works beautifully with Australian outdoor spaces
If your goal is to create a luxurious modern finish, polished concrete is your go-to. If you want something durable with natural character, exposed aggregate wins the race.
Durability and Longevity
Concrete, by nature, is one of the most durable building materials available. However, the finish you choose affects how it performs under specific conditions.
Polished Concrete Durability:
- Extremely hard surface — resists wear and abrasion
- Perfect for high-traffic areas like garages or indoor spaces
- Requires sealing to prevent stains or moisture issues
- Best in areas protected from weather exposure
Exposed Aggregate Durability:
- Highly durable and weather-resistant
- Excellent for driveways, footpaths, and outdoor entertainment areas
- Textured surface offers slip resistance
- Can withstand heavy vehicle traffic without showing wear
Both finishes are built to last decades when installed properly, but exposed aggregate tends to hold up better in harsh outdoor environments.
Maintenance Requirements
When choosing your concrete surface, consider how much upkeep you’re willing to do.
Polished Concrete Maintenance:
- Easy to clean with simple sweeping or mopping
- Needs resealing every few years to maintain shine and stain protection
- Minimal risk of dusting or surface deterioration
Exposed Aggregate Maintenance:
- Requires sealing every 3–5 years to prevent fading and staining
- Occasional pressure washing helps maintain its fresh look
- Textured surface hides dirt better than smooth finishes
In short, polished concrete offers easy indoor maintenance, while exposed aggregate excels outdoors with low visibility of wear and tear.
Safety and Slip Resistance
Safety is crucial, especially for driveways, pool surrounds, and entry areas that get wet.
Polished Concrete:
While beautiful, it can become slippery when wet, especially with a high-gloss finish. To improve safety, anti-slip coatings can be applied, or a matte polish can be chosen for better traction.
Exposed Aggregate:
Its naturally rough texture makes it inherently slip-resistant, even in wet conditions. This is why it’s a popular choice for driveways and pool decks.
If safety is a top priority for your project, exposed aggregate is the better option.
Cost Comparison
The cost of concrete finishes depends on several factors, including area size, design complexity, and aggregate type.
Here’s a general breakdown for Melbourne pricing (as of 2025):
| Finish Type | Typical Cost per m² | Best Use |
| Polished Concrete | $70 – $120 | Indoors, garages, showrooms |
| Exposed Aggregate | $90 – $150 | Driveways, outdoor areas, paths |
While polished concrete can be slightly cheaper for simple interiors, exposed aggregate offers unmatched outdoor durability and aesthetic value.
Ideal Applications for Each Finish
Here’s where each type of concrete really shines:
Polished Concrete:
- Interior floors
- Garages and basements
- Retail spaces and offices
- Covered patios
Exposed Aggregate:
- Driveways
- Footpaths
- Pool surrounds
- Outdoor entertaining areas
Think of polished concrete as your indoor luxury option, and exposed aggregate as your outdoor all-rounder.
Environmental Considerations
Both finishes are environmentally friendly compared to alternatives like tiles or pavers. Concrete has a long life span, reducing the need for replacements.
Sustainable Options Include:
- Using recycled aggregates
- Low-carbon cement alternatives
- Light-coloured concrete for heat reflection
At Best & Less Concrete, we’re committed to eco-conscious construction, helping Melbourne homeowners choose finishes that are both beautiful and sustainable.
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Home
To decide between polished and exposed aggregate, consider:
Your environment:
If the area is outdoors or exposed to rain, exposed aggregate offers better grip and durability.
Your style preferences:
If you love a modern, minimal, and reflective interior, polished concrete is perfect.
Your maintenance routine:
For low-maintenance outdoor spaces, exposed aggregate is ideal. For easy-to-clean indoor floors, go with polished concrete.
Your budget:
Exposed aggregate can be more expensive depending on stone choice, but it adds great resale value and aesthetic appeal.
Why Choose Best & Less Concrete
At Best & Less Concrete, we’ve been crafting premium concrete surfaces across Melbourne for years. From custom polished concrete floors to exposed aggregate driveways, our skilled team delivers quality workmanship and beautiful finishes every time.
We take care of every step — from site preparation and pouring to sealing and polishing — ensuring your concrete surface is both strong and stylish.
When you choose us, you’re not just getting a contractor; you’re partnering with experts who care about your home’s look, performance, and value.
The Verdict: Which One Wins?
There’s no single winner — it depends on your goals.
- For modern indoor spaces, choose polished concrete for its elegance and simplicity.
- For driveways and outdoor areas, go for exposed aggregate for durability, slip resistance, and natural beauty.
Whichever option you choose, both deliver long-lasting performance and exceptional curb appeal when installed by experienced professionals.
Final Thoughts
Your driveway or flooring surface is more than just functional — it’s a statement piece that enhances your property’s entire aesthetic. Whether you love the sleek look of polished concrete or the textured charm of exposed aggregate, choosing the right concrete finish will make your space more beautiful, durable, and valuable.
Let the team at Best & Less Concrete help you design and install a surface that perfectly suits your needs and lifestyle.
Ready to upgrade your driveway or floors with polished concrete or exposed aggregate?
Contact Best & Less Concrete today for expert advice and a free on-site quote.
Call 0449 562 437 or visit bestandlessconcrete.com.au to discuss your project.