Exposed aggregate driveways Adelaide
A driveway carries more daily load than any other surface on the property, so it needs a base built for weight, not just a finish that looks good on the day it's poured.
Why an exposed aggregate driveway holds up in Adelaide
Built for vehicle loads
A daily-use driveway needs a thicker slab and closer-spaced reinforcement than a path or patio. We size both to the vehicles that will actually use it.
Grip in wet weather
The exposed stone gives natural traction, which matters on a sloped driveway during Adelaide's wet winter months.
Kerb appeal that lasts
Stone size, cement tone and exposure level are chosen to suit your façade, not picked from a single default mix.
Specifications & build quality
Driveway pours are scheduled around vehicle access, since the slab needs several days to cure before it can take weight.
Sub-base, thickness and reinforcement
Sub-base depth
We excavate and compact to a depth suited to the soil under your specific site, since Adelaide's clay content varies block to block.
Steel reinforcement
Mesh reinforcement plus control joints at correct spacing manage the cracking that unreinforced slabs suffer as clay soil moves.
Slab thickness
Driveways are poured thicker than paths or patios to handle vehicle weight without stress cracking.
Drainage, finish and aftercare
Drainage falls
Correct falls direct water to the street or stormwater rather than pooling against the garage or house slab.
Exposure level
Light exposure suits a subtle texture, heavy exposure gives stronger grip and a bolder stone-forward look.
Sealing
A quality sealer protects against oil staining and UV fade, with resealing recommended every three to five years.
Our process
Site visit & quote
We check access, levels and drainage on-site and confirm colour and exposure before you get a fixed price.
Base preparation
Excavation, sub-base placement and staged compaction, matched to this job's specific requirements above.
Pour & expose
Reinforced pour, washed back to your chosen exposure level, with clean saw-cut joints and edges.
Seal, clean & handover
Final wash, sealing, and a written care schedule so you know when to reseal.
Recent exposed aggregate driveways projects
FAQs
How long does an exposed aggregate driveway take to install?+
A standard two car driveway is usually poured and finished within two to four working days, including base preparation. Larger areas, steep access or wet weather can extend that.
Can I still park on my driveway during the pour?+
No. The area needs to be clear for excavation through to curing. We'll agree on alternative parking arrangements as part of the quote.
How soon can I drive on a new exposed aggregate driveway?+
Light foot traffic is usually fine within a day or two. Vehicle traffic needs the concrete to cure properly first, typically around seven days, and we'll confirm the exact timing for your job.
Do you remove the old driveway first?+
Yes, where a replacement is needed. Demolition, removal and disposal of the old surface is included in the quote, not added afterwards.
What colours work best for a driveway?+
Mid to dark neutral blends like PebbleMix Grey or Salt & Pepper hide tyre marks and everyday wear better than very light finishes. See the full range on custom colours & finishes.
Get a free exposed aggregate driveways quote
Tell us about your project and we'll arrange an on-site visit. Quotes are fixed and itemised.
Prefer to talk it through? Call 0428 314 073 or email darrin.ecc@outlook.com.