Prices for exposed aggregate concrete vary by slab size, finish texture, and regional labor. The cost of exposed aggregate typically falls in a broad range depending on the surface area, aggregate type, and whether edging, stamping, or sealing is included. This guide shows the current price ranges and factors that influence the total.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Project type | $3.50 | $6.50 | $9.00 | Per sq ft for basic driveway or patio |
| Per square foot price | $4.50 | $8.00 | $12.00 | Materials, labor, and finishing included |
| Regional labor variation | — | — | — | Higher in coastal or urban zones |
| Aggregate type impact | Low-cost pea gravel | Mid-range decorative | High-end quartz/riverstone | Material cost influences total |
| Finish options | Standard | Textured/stamped | Colored/sealed | Sealing adds $0.50–$2.00 per sq ft |
| Prep work | $600 | $2,000 | $6,000 | Grading, forms, base |
| Delivery and disposal | $0.50 | $1.50 | $3.00 | Per sq ft depending on distance |
Direct price for exposed aggregate on typical patios or driveways
The exact cost for exposed aggregate usually sits between $4 and $12 per square foot depending on slab size, aggregate choice, and finish. For a 300 sq ft patio with a mid-range finish, expect roughly $1,800 to $3,600, with midpoints around $2,700. Assumptions: standard access, Midwest labor rates, and 3/8–1/2 inch aggregate size.
The following breakdown shows typical total price ranges by project type and scope.
Material and labor breakdown for exposed aggregate concrete
A clear quote splits materials, labor, and finishing costs. Materials cover concrete, aggregate, and sealer; labor accounts for surface finishing, brooming or stamping, and curing. On a 400 sq ft slab, a mid-range quote might be $3,200 for materials, $2,400 for labor, and $600 for finishing and sealing, totaling about $6,200. Assumptions: standard aggregate gradation, no reinforcement changes, normal site access.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials (concrete + aggregate) | $2.00 | $3.50 | $5.50 | Per sq ft cost varies by aggregate |
| Labor | $2.00 | $3.50 | $5.00 | Installation, placement, finishing |
| Finishing/sealing | $0.50 | $1.50 | $3.00 | Water seal or acrylic sealer |
| Site prep and forms | $1.00 | $2.25 | $4.50 | Grading and form setup |
| Delivery/haul-away | $0.50 | $1.25 | $3.00 | Distance-based |
| Contingency | $0.50 | $0.75 | $2.00 | Unforeseen adjustments |
Key price drivers for exposed aggregate finishes
Aggregate choice, slab size, and finish type are the strongest price levers. Coarser or multi-colored aggregates raise material costs; larger slabs reduce per-square-foot labor efficiency; stamped or color-mixed finishes add complexity and time. For a 12×20 ft driveway, changing from standard to stamped finish can add $2,000–$4,000 overall.
Regional price variation across the United States
Prices vary by region due to labor and material supply. The West and Northeast generally show higher ranges than the Midwest or South, with typical per-square-foot spreads of about $5–$12 in coastal cities versus $4–$9 in inland markets. Assumptions: suburban markets, standard transport distances, and typical permit practices in the region.
Permits, prep, and delivery fees that affect total
Permits and site prep add non-trivial costs. In urban areas, permit fees may range $100–$600, while site prep and grading can add $500–$3,000 depending on slope and soil conditions. Delivery or haul-away charges usually run $0.50–$3.00 per sq ft. Assumptions: single slab projects, normal soil conditions.
Strategies to reduce exposed aggregate costs without sacrificing quality
Scope control and material choices save money. Opt for standard-graded aggregate, a smaller slab footprint, and skip stamping or color unless required for aesthetics. Scheduling during slower seasons can reduce labor rates by 5–15%. Bundling sealing with final finishing may lower combined costs by 5–10%. Assumptions: single-project scope, non-urgent timeline.
Per-unit price ranges by project area and scope
Per-square-foot pricing reflects project scope and location. For a 500 sq ft patio with a plain broom finish, expect $2.50–$6.50 per sq ft for materials and $3.50–$5.50 for labor, totaling $6,000–$9,500. For a 1,000 sq ft driveway with a decorative finish, total costs might range $10,000–$22,000. Assumptions: typical slab thickness, standard reinforcement, and standard access.
Five-year cost outlook: maintenance versus replacement
Maintenance affects long-term price when comparing options. A seal coat every 2–3 years costs about $0.50–$1.50 per sq ft per application, while deeper resurfacing or resealing can run $2.00–$4.00 per sq ft every 5–7 years. Replacement intervals depend on wear, with typical life spans of 25–30 years for well-maintained exposed aggregate. Assumptions: solid subgrade, proper curing, and routine cleaning.
