Your questions answered
Frequently Asked Questions
Greycon Group is here to help with all your concreting needs. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive.
Pricing & Quotes
How much does a concrete driveway cost?
Concrete driveway costs depend on the finish, size, and site conditions. As a general guide: plain concrete starts from around $90–$120 per square metre, coloured concrete ranges $110–$135 per square metre, and exposed aggregate sits at $135–$180 per square metre. For a typical double driveway (around 50m²), expect $4,500–$11,000 depending on finish and prep work. Greycon provides fixed quotes after an on-site inspection - no surprises.
How much does a concrete slab cost?
Concrete slab costs vary by thickness, reinforcement specification, and site access. Standard residential slabs typically start from $80–$110 per square metre for a basic pour, with engineered foundation slabs and footings priced higher based on engineer specifications. We provide transparent, itemised quotes after assessing the site and reviewing any engineering plans.
Is exposed aggregate worth the extra cost?
For most homeowners, yes. Exposed aggregate adds $40–$60 per square metre over plain concrete but delivers significant kerb appeal, better slip resistance when wet, and a more premium look. It also tends to hide minor surface marks better than plain concrete. For driveways visible from the street and pool surrounds where grip matters, the upgrade pays for itself in property value and longevity.
Why are concrete quotes so different?
A cheap quote usually means corners are being cut somewhere - typically on base preparation, reinforcement specification, or slab thickness. Quality concrete work is not expensive because of the concrete itself; it is the prep, the reinforcement, the curing, and the finish that takes time and skill. Greycon Group quotes are itemised so you can see exactly what is included and compare like-for-like.
Do you charge for quotes?
No. Every Greycon quote is free, fixed, and obligation-free. We visit your site, take measurements, discuss options, and send through a clear written quote with everything itemised.
What’s included in a Greycon quote?
Every Greycon quote includes site preparation, excavation, base materials, reinforcement, formwork, concrete supply and pour, finishing, and curing. Where required, we will specify whether council crossover work, removal of existing concrete, or drainage modifications are included. No hidden extras.
Timing & Process
How long does a concrete driveway take to install?
A standard residential driveway typically takes 2–4 days from start to finish: one day for excavation and base preparation, one day for formwork and reinforcement, and one day for the pour and finishing. Larger or more complex jobs can take longer. The concrete then needs 7 days before vehicle traffic and 28 days to reach full design strength.
How long before I can walk on new concrete?
Light foot traffic is fine after 24 hours. We recommend keeping pets, kids, bikes, and anything heavy off the slab for the first 3 days while the concrete is still building strength. After that, normal walking is fine - but vehicles should stay off until day 7.
How long before I can drive on new concrete?
Wait at least 7 days before driving a standard car on new concrete. Heavy vehicles, trailers, or trucks should stay off for 28 days, when the slab reaches full design strength. Driving on concrete too early is the single most common cause of premature cracking.
How long does concrete take to cure?
Concrete reaches around 70% of its strength in the first 7 days and full design strength at 28 days. It continues to harden slowly for years afterwards but is fully usable from day 28. The first week is the critical window - keeping the slab protected from heavy loads, rapid drying, and temperature extremes during this period determines how well it performs long-term.
Can you pour concrete in winter?
Yes, concrete can be poured year-round, but cold weather requires more care. We adjust the concrete mix and curing approach in winter to compensate for slower setting times, and we won’t pour if temperatures are forecast to drop below 5°C overnight. Winter pours often have shorter waiting times for trade availability and slightly more flexible scheduling.
Can you pour concrete in the rain?
Light rain after the concrete has set is fine, but pouring during rain or heavy rain in the first hours can damage the surface finish and weaken the slab. We monitor weather forecasts closely and will reschedule a pour rather than risk a compromised result. A rescheduled job is better than a ruined slab.
When is the best time of year to pour concrete?
Spring and autumn are ideal - mild temperatures and consistent humidity help concrete cure evenly. Summer pours work well with proper curing precautions to prevent rapid drying. Winter pours are absolutely possible but require slightly longer cure times. The most important factor is having a stable weather window of at least 3–5 days for the initial cure.
Concrete Types & Finishes
What’s the difference between exposed aggregate and plain concrete?
The main difference between exposed aggregate and plain concrete lies in appearance, texture, and cost. Plain concrete is typically finished smooth and grey, making it a cost-effective and practical choice. However, it can also be textured for a non-slip finish - clients can choose between a smooth or textured surface to suit their needs.
Exposed aggregate, on the other hand, reveals decorative stones within the mix, resulting in a textured, visually appealing surface that offers excellent slip resistance. While exposed aggregate costs more than plain concrete, it provides enhanced kerb appeal and superior grip, making it particularly popular for driveways and pool surrounds where both aesthetics and safety are important.
What’s the difference between coloured concrete and stamped concrete?
Coloured concrete uses oxide pigments mixed through the entire slab to create a uniform tint. Stamped concrete is plain or coloured concrete with a pattern pressed into the surface while wet, often imitating pavers, brick, or natural stone. Coloured concrete is more subtle and budget-friendly; stamped concrete adds visual texture but costs more and requires more maintenance over time.
Is exposed aggregate slippery when wet?
No - the opposite. The exposed stones create a textured surface that provides excellent slip resistance, even when wet. This is why exposed aggregate is the preferred finish for pool surrounds and outdoor entertaining areas where wet feet are guaranteed.
What colour options are available for coloured concrete?
Coloured concrete is available in dozens of standard oxide colours, from soft greys and sandstones through to charcoals, terracottas, and earthy browns.
Can you match my existing concrete?
We can usually get very close to existing concrete, but exact matching is difficult because concrete colour shifts with age, weather exposure, and the original mix. We will assess the existing concrete on-site and recommend the closest practical match. For extensions and additions, we often suggest a deliberate joint or contrast strip rather than attempting an invisible match.
What is decorative concrete?
Decorative concrete is a broad category covering any finish that goes beyond plain grey concrete - coloured, exposed aggregate, stamped, stencilled, polished, or stained finishes. It combines the structural strength and durability of concrete with visual appeal that suits everything from modern minimalist homes to traditional or architectural builds.
Maintenance & Longevity
How long does a concrete driveway last?
A properly installed concrete driveway lasts 25–30 years or more. The two biggest factors in longevity are the quality of the base preparation and regular sealing. Driveways on poorly prepared bases can fail in under 10 years, while well-built and maintained driveways routinely outlast the homes they serve.
Do I need to seal my concrete driveway?
Sealing is not strictly required, but it is strongly recommended. Sealer protects against stains, weather damage, and surface fading, and significantly extends the life of decorative finishes like exposed aggregate and coloured concrete. The cost of regular sealing is far lower than the cost of replacing a deteriorated driveway.
How often should I seal my concrete?
Every 3–5 years is the general guide, depending on your sealer type, sun exposure, and traffic levels. Exposed aggregate driveways usually need resealing on the shorter end of that range. We can recommend a sealer suited to your finish and conditions when we hand the job over.
How do I clean exposed aggregate?
Regular maintenance is straightforward: hose down monthly to remove leaves and debris and use a stiff broom plus mild detergent for stains. Avoid acid-based cleaners or high- pressure washing too close to the surface, as both can damage the sealer and dislodge aggregate over time. Annual deep cleaning by a professional is worth considering.
Can you remove oil stains from concrete?
Fresh oil stains can usually be removed with a degreasing concrete cleaner. Older or deeper stains require professional cleaning and sometimes resurfacing of the affected area. The longer an oil stain sits, the harder it is to remove fully - addressing spills quickly makes a significant difference.
Will my coloured concrete fade?
Quality coloured concrete using oxide pigments is fade-resistant, but UV exposure and lack of sealing will eventually cause some lightening over many years. Regular resealing every 3–5 years protects the colour and keeps the finish looking fresh. Concrete sealed and maintained correctly can hold its appearance for decades.
Cracking & Repairs
Will my concrete crack?
All concrete develops some hairline cracking - this is normal shrinkage as the slab cures, and it is purely cosmetic. Greycon Group’s preparation, joint placement, and reinforcement standards are designed to minimise cracking and contain it within control joints. Structural cracks (wider than a credit card edge) indicate a problem and should be assessed.
What types of cracks are normal?
Hairline shrinkage cracks (very fine, surface-level lines) are normal and do not affect performance. Cracks that follow the control joints we cut into the slab are also expected — that’s exactly what those joints are for. Cracks wider than 2–3mm, cracks with vertical displacement, or cracks that grow over time are not normal and need to be assessed.
Can you repair cracked concrete?
Yes. We assess the crack type and underlying cause first - repairing a crack without addressing what caused it just delays the problem. Surface-level cracks can often be filled and sealed; deeper structural cracks may require partial slab replacement. We will give you an
honest assessment after inspecting the site.
Why is my concrete crumbling?
Crumbling concrete (called spalling) usually points to one of three causes: poor original mix, water and freeze-thaw damage, or salt exposure damaging the surface. The fix depends on the cause and severity. Minor spalling can be resurfaced; severe spalling usually means partial or full replacement is the more cost-effective long-term solution.
Can you resurface old concrete?
If the underlying slab is structurally sound, resurfacing can transform old concrete for a fraction of the cost of replacement - typically 50–70% cheaper. Resurfacing is not suitable for slabs with major cracking, settlement, or drainage issues. We assess the existing slab on-site to recommend the right approach.
Permits, Council & Compliance
Do I need a permit for a new driveway?
If your driveway connects to a public road via a vehicle crossover, council approval is required. The permit process and fees vary by local council. Internal driveways (entirely on your property, not crossing the nature strip) generally do not require a permit but may need to comply with planning overlays for heritage areas or large developments.
What is a vehicle crossover?
A vehicle crossover is the section of concrete (or asphalt) that runs from the kerb across the nature strip onto your property - essentially the bit of driveway between the road and your property line. Crossovers are technically council infrastructure even though they sit on what most people think of as their land, which is why they require permits and must be built to council specifications.
Who arranges the council crossover permit?
Greycon manages the full crossover process where it is required, including the application, council liaison, and inspection. The permit fee itself is paid by the property owner and varies by council, but we handle the paperwork and timing on your behalf, so you do not have to navigate the bureaucracy alone.
How long does a crossover permit take?
Council crossover permits typically take 2–6 weeks from application to approval, depending on the council and the time of year. Some councils require an officer site visit before approval, which can add time. We factor this into project timelines and apply early, so it does not hold up the pour.
Are you fully insured?
Yes. Greycon Group carries full public liability insurance details are available on request - and any concreter who cannot provide these on request should not be on your property.
Site Conditions & Preparation
Do I need to remove my old driveway first?
We handle removal as part of the job. Demolition and removal of existing concrete is typically itemised separately in our quote so you can see what it is costing. In some cases (where the old slab is sound), it may be possible to overlay rather than remove we will assess this on-site.
What if my site has bad access?
Restricted access affects how we deliver concrete (truck vs. pump vs. wheelbarrow) and how long the job takes. Tight access doesn’t make a job impossible - it just changes the approach. We assess access during the site visit and factor it into the quote so there are no surprises on pour day.
Can you work on sloped blocks?
Yes. Sloped sites require additional planning around drainage, formwork, and concrete consistency, and may need stepped slabs or retaining work. We have delivered driveways and slabs on significantly sloped sites - the planning just needs to happen properly upfront.
Will you damage my garden?
Concrete work is messy by nature – there is excavation, equipment movement, and the pour itself. We protect surrounding gardens, paths, and surfaces where possible and clean up thoroughly when we are done. Plants directly in the work zone will need to be moved before we start; we will flag anything at risk during the site visit.
What thickness should my concrete slab be?
Standard residential driveways are poured at 100mm thickness with reinforcement. Heavier applications (commercial driveways, areas taking trucks or heavy trailers) need 125–150mm. Foundation slabs are poured to engineer specifications - typically 100mm minimum but often thicker depending on the structural design. We will specify the right thickness for your application in the quote.
Working with Greycon
Do you offer warranties?
Yes. Greycon Group’s workmanship is warranted, and we stand behind every job we deliver. Specific warranty terms are provided in writing with each quote. Beyond warranty, we operate with the philosophy that a job done properly the first time.
Do you do commercial work?
Yes. Greycon Group delivers both residential and commercial concrete projects, including foundation slabs, retaining walls, commercial driveways, body corporate maintenance, and developer-scale jobs. Get in touch with project details and we will let you know how we can help.
How far in advance should I book?
Spring and early summer are our busiest periods - book 4–6 weeks ahead for these months. Autumn and winter typically have shorter lead times of 2–3 weeks. Urgent work can sometimes be accommodated; the easiest way to find out is to ask.
Can you work with my builder or architect?
Yes - and we regularly do. Greycon works directly with builders, architects, landscape designers, and project managers across residential and commercial projects. We are comfortable working to engineer specifications, drawings, and tight build schedules.
What areas do you service?
Greycon Group services suburbs across Melbourne & Morning Peninsula and the surrounding regions. The full list of suburbs is on our services page. If your suburb is not listed, get in touch – we may still be able to help depending on the project.
Building your vision precisely
Shaping spaces for your future
At Greycon, we deliver quality builds for homes and businesses. Our team ensures every project meets your needs.