6 Common Types of Concrete Driveway Finishes For Your Home

Concrete is one of the most versatile and durable materials available for driveway construction, offering countless design possibilities at a fraction of the cost of other materials. Its flexibility allows professional installers to shape, modify, and mix it to create unique finishes, while its durability ensures it outlasts alternatives like asphalt. While asphalt may last up to 30 years, properly installed concrete can endure for over 50 years with minimal maintenance.

Although designer pavers and colored brickwork can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a driveway, they come with higher material and installation costs—often starting at $150 per square meter, compared to the more affordable $60 per square meter for concrete.

With these benefits in mind, let's explore six common types of concrete driveway finishes that can elevate your home’s curb appeal.

1. Plain Concrete Driveway

A plain concrete driveway offers a clean, fresh, and classic look that remains a popular choice because of its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. This option is perfect for homeowners who prefer a straightforward, low-maintenance driveway that is easy on the budget. Expect to spend between $60-$80 per square meter for plain concrete, making it one of the most affordable options available.

Because there are no additional design elements, plain concrete is quick to install, saving both time and labor costs. Additionally, with proper sealing by a professional concrete service, a plain concrete driveway can last for 30 years or more, requiring minimal care to maintain its appearance. Dirt and grime can typically be washed away with a garden hose, keeping the surface looking clean and fresh with minimal effort.

2. Brushed or Stipple Finish Concrete Driveway

For those who prefer a little more texture and design without a significant increase in cost, a brushed or stipple finish offers an excellent solution. This finish involves adding texture to the concrete surface after it has been poured and leveled, providing a stylish look while still maintaining affordability. The cost for this type of finish ranges between $90-$140 per square meter.

After pouring and smoothing the concrete, professionals use brushes or stippling tools to create grooves and patterns, giving the driveway a textured appearance. This added texture not only enhances the visual appeal of your driveway but also improves traction for both vehicles and pedestrians, making it a safer option in wet conditions.

While this type of finish does require a bit more upkeep—particularly with grooves that may trap dirt—a quick rinse or an occasional low-pressure power wash will help keep it looking pristine. If you're looking for even more customization, color oxides can be added to the mix to create a tailored look that matches your home's aesthetic.

3. Stamped Concrete Driveway

A stamped concrete driveway is an excellent way to achieve the look of high-end materials like stone, wood, or brick without the associated costs and maintenance. Stamping wet concrete with patterns and textures allows homeowners to create the appearance of natural materials, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the property. Additionally, stencils can be used to imprint custom designs, such as monograms or focal points, for a personalized touch.

The cost for a stamped concrete driveway typically ranges from $90-$120 per square meter, depending on the complexity of the design. Custom stenciling will increase the cost to $100-$150 per square meter because of the additional labor required to create these unique elements. However, keep in mind that stamped finishes may not be as modern or in demand as other options. Many companies, such as Concept Concrete, no longer offer stamped finishes.

4. Pave Cut Concrete Driveway

If you admire the look of slate or pavers but prefer the durability and cost-effectiveness of concrete, a pave cut finish is an ideal option. This method mimics the appearance of natural slate or pavers by cutting lines into the concrete after it has cured. The result is a sleek, modern design that offers the aesthetic appeal of natural stone at a fraction of the cost.

To create this finish, installers first pour and smooth the concrete, ensuring it is properly leveled. Once the concrete is fully cured, a diamond saw is used to cut lines into the surface, creating the desired pattern. The pave cut finish is often combined with colored or brushed concrete to further enhance the design. Costs for this finish will vary based on the complexity of the pattern and the number of cuts required, so it’s best to request a custom quote.

5. Colored Concrete Driveway

If you’re looking to move beyond traditional gray concrete, a colored concrete driveway offers endless possibilities. By adding tints and pigments to the concrete mix, installers can achieve a variety of shades, from soft pearl and white tones to rich chocolate browns and elegant bluestones. This allows homeowners to create a driveway that complements the overall design of their home while maintaining the durability and strength of concrete.

Colored concrete is both timeless and budget-friendly, with costs typically ranging from $90-$140 per square meter. The added cost is minimal, making this an attractive option for those seeking a more customized look for their driveway without breaking the bank.

6. Exposed Aggregate Concrete Driveway

If you're seeking a driveway with more texture and a unique aesthetic, exposed aggregate is a fantastic option. This finish incorporates additives such as small stones, pebbles, and even shells into the concrete mix, creating a textured, three-dimensional surface. The variety of sizes and colorways available allows homeowners to customize their driveway with a truly distinctive look.

An exposed aggregate driveway not only offers visual appeal but also provides enhanced durability and slip resistance, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas. The rough surface helps improve traction, especially in wet conditions, ensuring both safety and longevity.

The cost for an exposed aggregate finish ranges between $100-$150 per square meter, depending on the type of aggregate selected and standard installation fees. While the initial cost is slightly higher than other finishes, the long-term benefits of durability, low maintenance, and unique appearance make it a worthwhile investment for homeowners looking for a one-of-a-kind driveway that will last for decades.

Go Custom Your Concrete Driveway For Maximum Curb Appeal

Concrete driveways offer endless possibilities for customization, from classic plain finishes to textured and decorative options like exposed aggregate and pave cuts. Each finish—whether it's a simple plain concrete driveway, the added traction of a brushed finish, the sophisticated patterns of stamped concrete, or the standout look of colored and exposed aggregate—brings its own unique advantages in terms of aesthetics, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

Choosing the right concrete finish for your home depends on your style preferences, budget, and desired level of maintenance. Whether you're seeking a sleek, modern driveway or a textured, natural look, there's a concrete finish to suit every homeowner's needs.

At Primed Concrete, we specialize in helping homeowners achieve the perfect driveway that combines durability, beauty, and functionality. Our expert team provides high-quality installations with precision and care, ensuring that your driveway not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time. Trust Primed Concrete to deliver exceptional results, no matter which concrete finish you choose.