Exposed aggregate concrete costs about $8 to $14 per square foot installed, or roughly $3 to $4 more per square foot than a plain broom finish. A typical 20-by-20-foot patio runs about $3,200 to $5,600, while a 12-by-40-foot driveway runs about $3,800 to $6,700. Expect the higher end of that range for driveways and full exposure, and the lower end for small patios with seeded aggregate.
Exposed aggregate is created by washing or brushing away the top cement paste to reveal the stone underneath, giving a textured, slip-resistant surface. The price depends mostly on project size, the exposure method, and sealing. The look is achieved by exposing the stone right after the pour, before the surface fully hardens. This makes it a mid-tier decorative option — more than plain concrete, less than stamped or stained finishes on most jobs.
Exposed aggregate concrete cost by project
| Project | Square feet | Typical cost | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12 x 12 patio | 144 | $1,150 – $2,000 | $1,600 |
| 20 x 20 patio | 400 | $3,200 – $5,600 | $4,400 |
| 12 x 40 driveway | 480 | $3,800 – $6,700 | $5,300 |
Two application methods affect the total. Seeding sprinkles aggregate onto wet concrete, while full exposure uses aggregate mixed throughout the pour and costs slightly more. Sealing adds another $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot and is strongly recommended. Most contractors bundle the exposure and finishing into the per-square-foot price rather than charging a separate line item.
What affects the price
- Project size: larger pours spread fixed setup and crew costs, lowering the effective per-square-foot price.
- Exposure method: full exposure runs slightly higher than seeding because more stone is used throughout the mix.
- Finish and aggregate type: specialty stone colors or decorative mixes cost more than standard local aggregate.
- Sealing: add $0.50 to $1.00 per square foot for the sealer that protects and deepens the color.
- Access and site prep: tight access, slope, or removal of sod and topsoil adds labor that shows up in the per-square-foot total.
What the estimate includes and does not include
The figures cover formed, poured, exposed, and finished concrete for a typical slab, including base preparation and standard reinforcement. They do not include demolition of existing concrete, complex grading or drainage, stamped borders, or premium aggregate upgrades. Edging, control joints, and a sealer coat are usually part of a complete job but should be confirmed in writing.
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Frequently asked questions
Exposed aggregate vs. stamped concrete — which is better?
Exposed aggregate is usually more slip-resistant and cheaper than stamped concrete. Stamped offers more color and pattern choices, but exposed aggregate is the practical pick for wet or sloped areas.
How long does exposed aggregate concrete last?
With proper installation and periodic sealing, exposed aggregate lasts about 25 to 50 years, comparable to standard concrete and longer than many overlays.
Does exposed aggregate need sealing?
Yes. Sealing protects the exposed surface from staining and freeze-thaw damage and deepens the stone color. Plan to reseal every two to five years depending on traffic and climate.
Is exposed aggregate slippery?
It is less slippery than smooth or polished concrete because the exposed stone creates texture. It remains a good choice for pool decks, walkways, and driveways, though steep slopes still benefit from care.
Related tools
- Concrete slab and patio cost calculator
- Stamped concrete cost guide
- Concrete driveway cost calculator
- Concrete price per yard
Sources and update policy
Estimate transparency
How this estimate was prepared
- Prepared by
- GoHomeCost Cost Data Team
- Last reviewed
- August 24, 2026
- Update cycle
- Public price inputs checked monthly
Calculation method: Project quantity is multiplied by editable low, typical, and high unit rates. Selected location adjustments, waste, fixed charges, and minimum-job rules are then applied and shown in the result.
Public references used on this page:
This is a planning estimate, not a quote or structural specification. Check product yields, local code, site conditions, and written contractor bids before purchasing materials or building.
Read the full methodology Report a price or calculation issue