Find the Best Coloured Concrete Professionals Near You

Coloured concrete is both a process and product. In terms of a process, the concrete colour system allows technicians to stain and dye the surface of concrete in different colours. This creates many options for a visually distinctive look. For example, a coloured concrete driveway can include interesting patterns or even textures when using exposed concrete colours.

When creating and installing a concrete colour solution, you’ll need a skilled and experienced contractor who knows how to work with the material and how to use the equipment required to perform related functions like staining, dying, sealing, and even preparing and grading the land before installation.

Contractors typically use a water-based stain or acid chemical stains for grey and white concrete. Keep in mind that grey concrete produces more dark and earthy tones, while white concrete colour solutions achieve a lighter finish.

Coloured concrete tends to be more expensive than ‘plain’ or grey concrete due to the additional materials and processes involved. Furthermore, white concrete is also more expensive to begin with than grey concrete. For example, to truly understand how much more a coloured concrete driveway may cost, you’ll need to understand the factors that go into calculating concrete costs.

These include:

• The size of the driveway — Many local councils require driveways to be a minimum of 3 metres.
• The thickness — Local councils also require driveways to be at least 125 millimetres thick, which is thicker than concrete paving.
• The slope or incline of the driveway — Laying concrete on a flat surface costs about $65 to $85 per square metre. However, a driveway on a slope can cost about $10 more per square metre.

Keep in mind that these are the costs for concrete laying only. You’ll also need to consider how much your contractor may charge you for excavation or creating a base, which helps to prevent potholes and concrete erosion. You could pay as much as $2,600 for a flat driveway and $2,800 for a low incline driveway.

Now, add another $10 per square metre for coloured concrete. This could bring your cost for a coloured concrete driveway to between $85 and $105 per square metre. However, using exposed concrete colours could cost you between $100 to $150 per square metre, depending on the type of aggregate.

See our full coloured concrete cost guide to find out more about the cost of coloured concrete.

The best part about using the concrete colour system is that these pigments are deep and won’t fade. However, that doesn’t mean that they don’t need care and maintenance. The colour pigments used are UV-stable and fade resistant.

While the concrete is being cured, you may notice that it transforms to a white colour. This process is known as efflorescence, which is when water evaporates from the concrete and excess lime rises to the surface. This is a normal process and fades in time with rainfall. However, your concrete contractor can also help you remove the efflorescence.

Aggregate or exposed concrete colours on driveways and other areas require sealing. This is a protective layer that decreases the wear and tear on the colour concrete surface. It has a clean and sleek appearance that makes the concrete easier to clean and maintain over time. You can use acrylic, epoxy or polyurethane sealers.

There is no ‘best’ colour for concrete. It depends on the other features of the property, the individual’s preference, and even the functionality of the concrete. For example, a coloured concrete driveway might look great with a dark charcoal or a dark earth tone. On the other hand, a patio might look better with coloured concrete that matches natural stone.

iseekplant has a nationwide network of quality coloured concrete suppliers operating in all Australian capital cities from Brisbane to Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne to Darwin, Perth and Adelaide. We also offer coloured concrete solutions in all major towns and cities from Cairns down to Townsville, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Newcastle and Hobart.

To find the right concrete colour solutions for your project, begin with iseekplant’s handy Get a Quote tool. You can also call us on 1300 691 912 or email us at projects@iseekplant.com.au for more information and your personalised service today.

Coloured concrete is highly regarded for its durability, aesthetic appeal, and versatility. It offers the same strength and longevity as standard concrete but with added visual interest. The colour can be customised to match any design scheme, making it ideal for both residential and commercial projects. Additionally, coloured concrete can enhance the curb appeal of a property, potentially increasing its value. Properly maintained coloured concrete can retain its vibrant appearance for many years, making it a good choice for various applications.

To get coloured concrete, you can choose from several methods depending on your project needs and desired finish:

1. Integral Colouring: Pigments are mixed into the concrete before it is poured, ensuring uniform colour throughout the slab.
2. Staining: Acid-based or water-based stains are applied to cured concrete to create rich, translucent tones.
3. Surface Colouring: Dry-shake colour hardeners are spread on the surface of freshly poured concrete and worked into the top layer.

Contact a reputable concrete supplier or contractor to discuss your options and get a quote tailored to your specific project.

Coloured concrete can last for decades if properly installed and maintained. The lifespan of coloured concrete is comparable to that of standard concrete, which can be up to 50 years or more. Factors influencing its longevity include the quality of the materials, the skill of the installer, and the level of maintenance provided. Regular sealing and cleaning help preserve the colour and prevent surface damage, ensuring your coloured concrete remains in good condition for many years.

Coloured concrete can be slippery when wet, especially if it has a smooth or polished finish. However, this can be mitigated by adding a textured finish or anti-slip additives to the concrete mix or surface. Stamped or exposed aggregate finishes are popular options that provide better traction. Additionally, regular maintenance and the application of slip-resistant sealers can help maintain a safe surface. It’s important to discuss your concerns with your contractor to choose the best finish for your specific needs and environment.

The cost for coloured concrete in Australia is typically around $75 to $100 per m² for standard colouring finishes.

For more premium applications—such as customised pigment blends, textured finishes, sealing or detailed design work—the price can rise to $120 to $150+ per m².

Concrete can be coloured in a wide range of options, depending on the method used (integral pigments, surface staining, or overlays). Here’s a concise breakdown:

Key considerations:

• Integral colours are more durable as the colour goes through the whole slab.
• Surface stains and overlays are more decorative but can fade or wear over time.
• Always check with your concreter for available colour charts and samples, as manufacturers differ.

Coloured concrete is highly durable and, when properly installed and maintained, can last 25–50 years or more—essentially as long as standard concrete. Its longevity depends on a few factors:

Tip: With proper sealing and maintenance, integral-coloured concrete can retain its vibrancy for decades, making it a long-lasting decorative choice.

Yes, existing concrete can be coloured, but the method differs from colouring new pours. You can use surface treatments rather than integral pigments. Here are the main options:

Important tips:

• Surface prep is critical: Clean thoroughly, remove contaminants, and repair cracks.
• Sealing is recommended: Protects colour from fading, staining, and wear.
• Test a small area first: To check colour, texture, and adhesion.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the difference between coloured concrete and stamped concrete:

Key takeaway: Coloured concrete changes the hue of your slab, while stamped concrete changes the look and texture, often incorporating colour as well. Many projects combine both for a more decorative effect.