Frequently Asked Questions
Everything Northern Beaches homeowners need to know about concreting — costs, finishes, timelines, maintenance and more.
How long does a new concrete driveway take?
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Usually 3-5 days from excavation to final seal, depending on weather and finish. We handle everything — old surface removal, excavation, formwork, pouring, finishing and cleanup.
How much does concreting cost?
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It depends on size, complexity, concrete type and decorative finishes. We provide detailed written quotes based on your specific project — no hidden fees. Contact us for a free quote.
What concrete finishes do you offer?
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We offer plain concrete, exposed aggregate, coloured, stamped, honed and polished finishes. The right type depends on your project's strength, durability and aesthetic requirements.
How long before I can drive on new concrete?
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Concrete takes 24-48 hours to dry enough to walk on. Wait at least a week before driving on a new concrete driveway. Full curing takes up to a month.
How do I maintain my concrete?
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Regular cleaning with mild soap and water, plus resealing every few years to protect from stains and weather damage. With proper maintenance, concrete driveways and patios last decades.
Do you handle excavation and rubbish removal too?
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Yes — we're a one-stop team. We handle old surface removal, excavation, site prep, concreting, finishing and cleanup all in-house. One team from start to finish.
What areas do you service?
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We service Sydney's Northern Beaches and North Shore — including Manly, Dee Why, Brookvale, Freshwater, Mona Vale, Seaforth, Collaroy, Narrabeen, Palm Beach, Avalon, St Ives and surrounding suburbs.
What is the difference between concrete and cement?
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Cement is a powder ingredient used to make concrete. Concrete is the finished product — a mix of cement, water, sand and aggregates (gravel or crushed stone). When people say 'cement driveway', they usually mean concrete.
What is exposed aggregate concrete?
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Exposed aggregate is a decorative finish where the top layer of cement paste is washed away to reveal the natural stone beneath. It's slip-resistant, durable and one of the most popular finishes for driveways and pool surrounds on the Northern Beaches.
Is stamped concrete a good option for driveways?
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Stamped concrete can replicate the look of pavers, brick or natural stone at a fraction of the cost. It's durable and low-maintenance, though it should be sealed every few years to maintain its appearance.
How thick should a concrete driveway be?
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Residential driveways are typically 100mm thick with steel reinforcement. For heavier vehicles or commercial use, 125-150mm may be required. We assess each project individually to ensure the right specification.
Do I need council approval for a new driveway?
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In most cases, yes. Northern Beaches Council requires approval for new driveways or significant modifications to existing ones, particularly for the crossover (where the driveway meets the road). We can guide you through the process.
What causes concrete to crack?
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Common causes include improper sub-base preparation, lack of control joints, excessive water in the mix, rapid drying and tree root movement. Professional preparation and correct joint placement minimise cracking significantly.
Can cracked concrete be repaired?
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Minor cracks can be filled and sealed. However, if cracking is widespread or the slab has shifted, replacement is usually the better long-term solution. We can inspect your concrete and recommend the best approach.
What is coloured concrete?
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Coloured concrete uses oxide pigments mixed through the entire batch to create a consistent colour throughout the slab. It won't fade or peel like surface-applied colour. We offer a wide range of colours to match your home.
How long does concrete last?
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A properly poured and maintained concrete driveway can last 25-30+ years. Factors like sub-base quality, mix design, reinforcement, finishing and ongoing maintenance all affect longevity.
What is honed concrete?
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Honed concrete is ground and polished to a smooth, matte or semi-gloss finish. It's popular for indoor floors, patios and entertaining areas where a sleek, contemporary look is desired.
Do you offer free quotes?
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Yes — we provide free, obligation-free quotes for all concreting, excavation and rubbish removal projects across the Northern Beaches and North Shore. Call us on 0410 238 215 or fill in the form on our contact page.
What happens if it rains during my pour?
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We monitor weather closely and won't pour if rain is forecast. If unexpected rain occurs during a pour, we have procedures and coverings to protect the fresh concrete. Your project quality is never compromised.
Can you concrete on a steep driveway?
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Absolutely. We regularly work on steep blocks across the Northern Beaches — Beacon Hill, Bilgola Plateau, Fairlight and more. We use the right techniques, formwork and mix designs to handle gradients safely.
How do I choose the right concrete finish?
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Consider your budget, the area's purpose (driveway, pool surround, entertaining area), slip resistance needs, and the look you want. We walk you through the options during the quoting process and can show samples.
Do you use subcontractors?
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No — everything is done in-house by our own experienced team. From excavation and site prep through to pouring, finishing and cleanup, you deal with one team from start to finish.
What is the best concrete finish for pool surrounds?
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Exposed aggregate and honed concrete are popular choices — they look great, are slip-resistant when wet, and handle pool chemicals and salt well. We can recommend the best option for your pool area.
How do you handle tight access properties?
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Many Northern Beaches properties have narrow driveways or limited access. We use smaller equipment, concrete pumping and experienced techniques to deliver quality results even on the trickiest sites.
Are you licensed and insured?
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Yes — Aussie All-Stars is fully licensed and insured. We hold all required trade licences for concreting and excavation work in NSW, plus comprehensive public liability and workers compensation insurance.
