Concrete Alfresco Areas in Mandurah: What Do They Cost and What Should You Know?
Quick answer: A concrete alfresco slab in Mandurah typically costs around $95 to $180 per square metre depending on finish, based on published 2026 Western Australian pricing, with polished finishes costing more. A 36 square metre alfresco slab usually lands between roughly $3,400 and $6,500 for the concrete alone. The roof, posts, outdoor kitchen, lighting and approvals are separate costs.
An alfresco is a covered outdoor living area attached to or near the house. Because it is roofed and used like a room, it needs more planning than a basic patio: levels, drainage, structural footings and approvals all matter.
Concrete Alfresco Cost at a Glance
| Alfresco finish | Typical cost per m² | Example 36 m² slab |
|---|---|---|
| Plain or broom finish | $95 to $145 | $3,420 to $5,220 |
| Exposed aggregate | $115 to $180 | $4,140 to $6,480 |
| Liquid limestone | $110 to $165 | $3,960 to $5,940 |
| Stamped or stencilled | $105 to $170 | $3,780 to $6,120 |
| Honed or polished | $160 to $280 | $5,760 to $10,080 |
| Removal of existing surface | Roughly $45 to $120 per m² | $1,620 to $4,320 |
These are planning figures, not quotes. Prices vary with access, preparation, finish and timing, so always compare current written quotes.
What Is an Alfresco?
In Australian homes, an alfresco is an outdoor area under a roof that works as an extension of the living space. Our concrete alfresco areas commonly include:
- A concrete slab or paved floor.
- A roof, which may be a pitched, skillion or flat structure, or an extension of the main roof.
- Outdoor dining and lounge furniture.
- An outdoor kitchen or barbecue.
- Lighting, fans, heaters and power points.
- Blinds, screens or glazing for wind and weather.
Because it combines structure, services and finishes, an alfresco should be planned before the slab is poured.
Alfresco vs Patio: What Is the Difference?
| Feature | Patio | Alfresco |
|---|---|---|
| Roof | Optional | Usually roofed |
| Connection to house | Often adjacent | Usually directly attached |
| Typical use | Seating and casual use | Dining, entertaining, living |
| Finish expectations | Practical | Often premium |
| Structural requirements | Lighter | Footings for posts and roof loads |
| Approvals | Often simpler for open slabs | Commonly needs approval |
| Cost | Lower | Higher, especially with roof |
If you are weighing a roofed space against an open concrete patio, the roof and its footings are usually the biggest difference in cost.
Choosing the Best Concrete Finish for an Alfresco
The finish sets the look and feel of the whole space. Popular options in Mandurah include:
Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate is textured, slip resistant and good at hiding spills, dust and marks. Sandy and grey tones suit coastal homes.
Liquid Limestone
A Western Australian favourite with a soft, natural look. It is usually honed and sealed and works well with light, coastal interiors.
Honed or Polished Concrete
Polished concrete is a smooth, modern look that flows from indoors to outdoors. Make sure the sealer is slip resistant for outdoor conditions.
Stamped or Stencilled Concrete
Patterns mimic stone, tiles or timber. It suits those who want a decorative look without the cost of natural materials.
Broom Finish
The practical, budget-friendly choice with excellent grip. It can be coloured or sealed to improve its appearance.
Coloured Concrete
Coloured concrete uses pigment that can match brickwork, render or roof tones. Light colours remain cooler in summer.
Slab Specification for an Alfresco
| Feature | Typical specification |
|---|---|
| Thickness | About 100 mm, or more where required |
| Reinforcement | SL72 or heavier mesh, with additional steel at footings |
| Concrete strength | Around 25 MPa, sometimes 32 MPa in coastal exposure |
| Base | Compacted crushed rock or limestone |
| Fall | Around 1 in 100 away from the house |
| Thickened edges | Beams under posts, walls and outdoor kitchens |
| Joints | Control joints to manage cracking |
| Services | Conduits and drains installed before the pour |
The slab should be designed with the roof and posts in mind. If footings are poured separately later, there is a higher risk of cracking and misalignment. Share your roof plans with your concreter and, if needed, an engineer before the pour.
Alfresco Approvals in Western Australia
Alfresco areas are often subject to planning and building requirements because the roof is a structure attached to or near the house.
Things that commonly matter include:
- Building approval for roofed structures, depending on size and type.
- Setbacks from boundaries and other buildings.
- Open space and site coverage rules under planning requirements.
- Height limits and impact on neighbours.
- Bushfire, heritage or estate rules in some locations.
- Drainage and stormwater requirements.
Requirements vary by property and structure, so confirm the current rules with the City of Mandurah before you finalise the design or pour the slab. Many builders and roofing contractors can help manage approvals alongside the concrete work.
Drainage and Levels Next to the House
Getting levels right is critical.
- Finish the slab below the house floor so water cannot run into the building.
- Respect damp-proof course levels and avoid covering weep holes.
- Fall the slab away from the house and toward a drain, garden or approved stormwater connection.
- Install grated drains at thresholds and low points.
- Seal the junction between slab and house with flexible joint material.
- Plan for heavy rain, since winter storms can send large volumes of water across outdoor areas.
Poorly planned drainage causes pooling, slippery surfaces and potential damage to walls and floors.
Outdoor Kitchens, Spas and Heavy Features
Heavy features need extra planning.
- Outdoor kitchens and barbecues need level, stable bases and often thickened slab sections.
- Masonry walls and benches require footings.
- Spas and swim spas need specialised slabs, often thicker and engineered.
- Fire pits and heaters need safe, non-combustible surfaces and clearances.
- Planters and water features need drainage and waterproofing.
It is much cheaper to include these in the original slab than to retrofit them later.
Climate, Comfort and Style in Mandurah
Heat. Roofing and shade reduce surface temperatures, but slab colour still matters. Lighter finishes feel cooler underfoot.
Wind. Coastal breezes can be strong. Consider screens, blinds or landscaping for comfort.
Salt air. Properties near the estuary and ocean should use good concrete quality, appropriate cover over steel and sealing.
Sandy ground. Careful compaction prevents settlement under the slab.
Rain. Winter storms call for effective drainage and non-slip finishes.
Outdoor living lifestyle. Many Mandurah households use alfresco areas year-round, so durability and comfort matter.
Pouring an Alfresco Slab in Summer
Hot weather requires planning.
- Start early to avoid peak heat and wind.
- Use shade and windbreaks to reduce rapid drying.
- Keep the base lightly moist without puddles.
- Apply curing compound or wet cure immediately after finishing.
- Cut joints on time to control cracking.
- Seal decorative finishes only when the concrete is ready, often after about 28 days.
Poor summer practice can cause plastic shrinkage cracking, patchy colour and weak surfaces, which are especially noticeable on decorative alfresco slabs.
How to Save Money on an Alfresco Slab
- Select a broom or exposed aggregate finish instead of polished or stamped designs.
- Keep the shape simple. Rectangles cost less than curves.
- Pour with other slabs to share setup and delivery costs.
- Install services early. Conduits and drains are cheaper before the pour.
- Order the right size. Larger alfresco areas can reduce the rate per square metre, but only build what you will use.
- Plan future additions now, such as footings for a pergola or kitchen.
Questions to Ask Your Concreter
- What thickness, mesh and strength do you recommend for my alfresco?
- How will you design footings for posts and heavy features?
- Can I see examples of the finish I want?
- How will drainage and levels be handled next to the house?
- Is sealing included, and which sealer do you use?
- Who will coordinate with the roofer or builder?
- How will you manage summer heat during the pour?
- What warranty do you offer?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a concrete alfresco cost in Mandurah?
Concrete alone typically costs about $95 to $180 per square metre depending on finish, with polished options higher. The roof and fittings add significantly more.
How thick should an alfresco slab be?
Typically around 100 millimetres with SL72 mesh, plus thickened beams where posts or heavy features sit.
What is the best concrete finish for an alfresco?
Exposed aggregate and liquid limestone are popular for their look and comfort, while broom finish is the practical budget option.
Do I need approval to build an alfresco?
Often yes, especially for roofed structures. Check requirements with the City of Mandurah before starting.
Can I pour the slab before deciding on the roof?
You can, but it is better to plan the roof and footings first so the slab suits the final structure.
Is polished concrete suitable outdoors?
It can be, but it must have a slip-resistant sealer and suit the exposure. Many people prefer textured finishes outdoors.
How long does an alfresco slab take?
Typically two to five days for preparation, pouring and finishing, followed by curing before heavy use.
How do I keep my alfresco floor cool in summer?
Choose light colours, textured finishes and shade, and avoid dark smooth surfaces in direct sun.
Final Thoughts
A concrete alfresco in Mandurah is a long-term investment in outdoor living. Plan the slab together with the roof, footings, services and drainage, choose a finish that suits your style and climate, check approval requirements and compare itemised quotes from experienced local concreters.
With careful design and good workmanship, your alfresco will provide a comfortable, durable space for entertaining and relaxing for decades.