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Concrete is a common choice for pool surrounds in Australia because it’s durable, adaptable, and works well in hot weather. If you're planning a new pool area or updating an existing one, it helps to understand what concrete costs and why certain finishes cost more. This guide outlines the pricing, what affects the final quote, and where protective coatings like Tread Armour fit into the long-term performance of the surface.

Average Cost of Concrete Around a Pool

Across Australia, the cost of concrete pool surrounds generally falls between $90 and $180 per square metre. The price varies depending on the finish, site conditions, and thickness of the slab.

Typical Cost Ranges

Concrete Type	Approx. Cost (per m²)
Standard plain concrete	$90 – $120
Coloured concrete	$110 – $150
Exposed aggregate	$120 – $180
Stamped or decorative concrete	$140 – $220
Honed or polished concrete	$160 – $260

Most homeowners install between 30 m² and 80 m² around their pool. This puts the total project cost roughly between $3,000 and $12,000, depending on the size and finish. Adding a protective coating such as Tread Armour increases long-term durability and reduces the likelihood of surface wear.

What Influences the Cost?

The final price depends on several practical factors.

1. Thickness of the Slab

Pool surrounds usually require a 100mm to 125mm slab. Thicker slabs or those with extra reinforcement increase the price.

2. Site Access

Restricted access adds time and labour. Tight spaces may require wheelbarrow work instead of machinery, increasing costs.

3. Excavation Requirements

If the area needs levelling, cutting into soil, or removing rock, the price rises. Excavation can add $500 to $3,000 depending on the volume.

4. Drainage

Pool areas must drain away from the pool and home. Installing channels or grated drains adds extra cost but prevents long-term issues.

5. Concrete Finish

Different finishes carry different price points:

Plain concrete is the most affordable.
Exposed aggregate is common around pools due to texture and appearance.
Stamped concrete replicates stone or pavers at a lower cost.

6. Sealing

Concrete around pools needs sealing to resist water, chemicals, and UV exposure. Sealing typically costs $8–$15/m².

Best Types of Concrete for Pool Areas

Concrete around pools needs to be durable, slip-conscious, and resistant to weather. The most common options include:

Plain Concrete

Cost-effective and simple, but more prone to heating up under the sun.

Exposed Aggregate

Popular for pool areas due to:

Natural grip
Durable surface
Good slip-resistance
Wide range of stone colour mixes

Stamped Concrete

A budget-friendly way to mimic pavers or stone, though it can become slippery when wet unless treated.

Coloured Concrete

Pigmented concrete that provides a more decorative look, but still requires sealing.

Is Concrete a Good Choice for Pool Surrounds?

Concrete is one of the most durable and cost-efficient materials available. It holds up well in high-traffic, outdoor environments and can be shaped to suit any pool layout. Compared to pavers, it has fewer joints, meaning less risk of movement or weeds growing through. The main drawback is potential slipperiness when wet, which makes surface treatment important.

Improving Safety: Non-Slip Coatings for Pool Concrete

Concrete surfaces around pools often become slick over time due to water, sunscreen, and pool chemicals. A non-slip coating is one of the most effective ways to increase traction and improve safety.

At Properties Unlimited Group, we offer Tread Armour, a durable non-slip epoxy coating designed for outdoor surfaces, including pool surrounds.

Tread Armour provides:

High grip under wet conditions
Resistance to chlorine and saltwater
UV stability for Australian sun exposure
Long-term durability
A clean, modern finish

You can check the final look of our Tread Armour here.

Conclusion

Concrete remains one of the most practical and cost-effective materials for pool surrounds. Most projects fall between $90 and $180 per m², with variations depending on finish, site conditions, and preparation requirements. For added safety and durability, applying a non-slip coating such as Tread Armour is a valuable upgrade that improves both function and appearance.

If you’d like the right finish or a quick quote, get in touch and we’ll help you move forward.

FAQ

1. How much does concrete around a pool cost per square metre?

Concrete around a pool generally costs $90 to $180 per m², depending on the finish, access, and site preparation.

2. What is the best concrete finish for pool surrounds?

Exposed aggregate is often the preferred choice due to its durability, slip-resistant texture, and wide range of colour mixes.

3. Do concrete pool surrounds need sealing?

Yes. Sealing helps protect concrete from water, pool chemicals, and UV exposure, and it extends the lifespan of the surface.

4. Can concrete around a pool become slippery?

Yes, especially when wet. Applying a non-slip coating such as Tread Armour improves safety and provides better grip in wet conditions.

5. How much should I budget for a full concrete pool surround project?

For an average 50 m² area, expect to spend $4,500 to $11,000, depending on the finish and site requirements.