Decorative concrete is formed to give structural support as well as aesthetic appeal. A wide range of commercial and residential applications can benefit from decorative concrete’s long-term durability and visual appeal.
Concrete is a fundamental and significant component of the construction industry, and can be utilised for various purposes, including foundations, driveways, walls, floors, and patios. It is also available in many different shapes and sizes. Popular decorative concrete options include exposed aggregate concrete, stamped, stained, polished and coloured concrete.
Is Decorative Concrete Outdated?
Some think decorative concrete that was previously deemed a trend is now outdated. However, it has been shown that decorative concrete is still a popular choice, and it is expected to be so for some time to come.
With increasing demand from the residential and commercial sectors, the decorative concrete industry is expected to rise. The increasing demand for remodelling and refurbishment activities in Australia and the strong demand for stamped concrete for flooring are the primary factors driving the market’s growth. Decorative driveway concreting is common, especially exposed aggregate styles.
The growing demand for green buildings is also a significant factor driving the market’s growth. But a substantial increase in capital expenditure is one of the primary obstacles to expanding the market. In addition, the worldwide demand for decorative concrete has risen due to the growing popularity of the material in residential structures.
In looking at the international market to explore the trend, it is evident that residential construction is booming in North America due to the region’s expanding population and consequently-increasing demand for housing. According to projections, this will result in a more significant increase in the market for decorative concrete in the coming years which will in turn influence the popularity of this style in Australia.
History Of Decorative Concrete
It wasn’t until the turn of the twentieth century that concrete makers began experimenting with new facade designs. However, the use of colors and stains to enhance the appearance of plain concrete was not limited to pre-cast builders.
To bring colour to dull concrete, concreters began blending colors. Some people retained the formula for mixing and creating different shades. Mason Scofield, a young engineer, started making beautiful concrete hues in 1915 to meet the growing demand for pigments.
Brad Bowman established a procedure for stamping concrete in 1950, as well as the instruments that were used to do it. He is widely regarded as the “Father of Stamped Concrete,” having introduced texture and embossing to the field of decorative concrete in the 1950s and 1960s.
This means that plain concrete could be transformed into the appearance of tiles, bricks, slate, and other materials. In addition, he invented and patented the equipment and techniques used to make the numerous stamping designs that are now in use.

Common Type Of Decorative Concrete
Exposed Aggregate Concrete
refers to a concrete finish that exposes the aggregate pieces (rocks or pebbles) amidst the concrete. The very top layer is removed, leaving a textured surface, sometimes this surface is polished to a smooth surface back and other times it is left textured.
Stamped concrete
is concrete that has been patterned, textured, or embossed. Special tools are used to imitate natural materials such as slate, stone, and brick on semi-hardened fresh concrete that has not yet been set completely. Driveways, patios, swimming pool decks, walkways, and even interior flooring can all benefit from the stamped concrete.
Stained Concrete
It is possible to add almost any colour to the surface of concrete. Staining concrete with a deeply penetrating stain will result in a hue that is designed to be resistant to fading. It is suitable for use in both commercial and residential concrete construction projects.
Polished Concrete
Because of its unique aesthetic and low upkeep, polished concrete is one of the fastest-growing methods in the decorative concrete business. Diamond tools can be used to generate a marble-like finish by repeatedly grinding the concrete surface. To obtain a glossy, hard surface, polishing concrete is usually used before staining.
Coloured Concrete
Can make a simple space turn into something extraordinary. Coloured concrete offers an almost infinite number of design options and colour combinations, making it simple to get the ideal results. It can be used in conjunction with various other decorative concrete finishes.
What is the Benefit of Decorative Concrete?
Decorative concrete can save money compared to slate or pavers when intricate patterns and decorations are used. In addition, concrete is one of the most long-lasting building materials when it is constructed properly. Decorative concrete may be used indoors and outdoors because it does not scratch, damage, or break as easily as other materials.
In addition, artisans specialising in decorative concrete can customise their work to meet the preferences of an individual homeowner. Design and colour options are unlimited and may be tailored to suit unique requests.
Our team of Frankston concreters offer all kinds of decorative concrete options for residential and commercial properties, get in touch with us for your free quote.