The two finishes Victorian homeowners ask about most are plain concrete and exposed aggregate. Both are solid, long-wearing driveway surfaces. The difference is the look, the texture underfoot, and the price.
Plain concrete
Plain concrete is the classic smooth grey finish, usually with a light broom texture for grip. It is the most affordable option, it suits almost any house, and a good plain pour looks clean for years. If the budget is the priority, plain concrete done well is hard to beat.
Exposed aggregate
Exposed aggregate starts as the same pour, then the top layer of cement is washed back to reveal the stones in the mix. The result is a textured, decorative surface with natural colour variation, and it hides tyre marks and stains better than a smooth finish. It costs more than plain concrete because of the extra materials and the washing step, and the exposed stones give good grip in wet weather, which matters on sloped driveways.
Coloured and stencilled options
Between the two sit coloured concrete, where oxide is mixed through the pour, and stencilled patterns that mimic pavers. These change the look without the texture of exposed aggregate.
How to choose
Ask three questions. What suits the house? What suits the slope and the weather on your block? And what does the budget allow? A good concreter will show you photos of each finish on real jobs and price the options side by side.
The gallery on this site has real photos from community jobs, including exposed aggregate and plain finishes. When you are ready, send the job through and ask for both options to be priced.