How much does concrete resurfacing cost?

The average cost to resurface concrete in Australia is between $100 and $150 per square meter. Prep work is required and involves more than merely painting the surface, which costs an average of $30 to $60 per square meter.

The most important factors that determine price are based on size, condition of existing concrete and type of finish.

Below is the average cost of a concreting job in different states around Australia, based on quotes our customers have received for their jobs:

State	Average Cost for Personal Accounting
NSW	$4500
VIC	$2000
WA	$1600
SA	$1100
QLD	$2800

 

Investing in a concrete resurfacing will prolong your existing driveway, patio or walkways. It can also add value to your property. Upgrade your property’s look with a new stencilled or stamped concrete. 

Smoothing out bumps, filling cracks and sealing your worn concrete will make your driveway look brand new. Resurfacing is less costly than ripping up old concrete and laying down new pavement.

Type of concrete

The type of existing concrete plays a factor in resurfacing. The following are the most common types of concrete you can have resurfaced:

• Bare concrete
• Sealed or painted concrete
• Stencilled or stamped concrete

Size of the area

Accessibility is calculated into the cost of resurfacing concrete. For example, driveway resurfacing cost may be less per square meter than sidewalks and patios due to the ease of the work area. A space that is convenient for equipment to maneuver will take less time than slim concrete areas surrounded by shrubs and greenery. Many companies have a minimum fee for any size.

If the surface is levelled

Levelling a surface to create a more balanced and comfortable area requires additional time and material. Special self-levelling concrete toppers are used for an even surface before resurfacing. Areas indoors take a more precise approach and will always be more expensive. 

Yes, it is possible to DIY pebblecrete repair by using a pebblecrete repair kit, which are readily available at hardware stores like Bunnings. These kits contain all the necessary materials to repair small cracks, chips, or holes in your pebblecrete surface. With the right tools and techniques, you can complete the repair task yourself, saving you time and money on professional services.

Plain – $35 per square meter

The cost to replace a cement driveway can run as low as $35 per square meter, but several conditions must be met. The same applies to patio surfaces. If the concrete is level, has few cracks or blemishes, a thin coat of concrete may be all that is needed to bring your surface back to life. However, this is rarely the case. 

Stencilled – $50 per square meter

Stencilled concrete is a two-step process. The base coat is first applied, and the stencilling follows. Patterns can be as simple or as dramatic as you like, but every added detail will increase your cost. This type of professional job can sometimes be as much as $100 to $150 per square meter. 

Stamped – $75 per square meter

Stamped concrete is a version of stencilled concrete, but more complex. Stamping further gives concrete the appearance of stone with texture. Only concreters with experience should attempt this type of resurfacing.

Aggregate exposure – $150 per square meter

Aggregate exposure or pebblecrete is another specialized form of concrete resurfacing that leaves a grainy, pebbled appearance on plain concrete. It can run $80 per square meter more than the cost of bare concrete resurfacing, but the results are excellent.

Coloured concrete – $70 to $95 per square meter

Coloured concrete uses acid dyes to create a complementary colour on concrete. Because colours may be limited, it is best to deal with a resurfacing company that has experience in mixing custom colours.

Although several DIYers can tackle complicated jobs, trying your hand at concrete resurfacing should not be one of them. It takes education, skill and experience to process that professional quality. 

How to create an accurate estimate

• Receive three quotes from area concreters
• Ask for pictures of completed projects
• Compare the accuracy of dimensions, material and time

Licensing and qualifications

• Get proof of insurance
• Check references for the quality of work
• Ask for the longevity of resurfacing specialties
• Get a warranty in writing

Once you have a breakdown of the charges, determine if some prep work can be done ahead of time. Also, make sure that there is a clear path for equipment to be brought in to limit the labour costs.

 

* The cost data is based on Oneflare and third-party sources