Concrete Driveway Costs

November 10, 2009

A concrete driveway costs about as much as you want it to cost. That sounds very unhelpful, but there are many variables consider when planning a concrete driveway. The good news is, because of decisions you get to make, you can control those costs.

Basic Concrete Driveway Costs

Just so we have a “ballpark” figure, concrete costs about $3 to $10 per square foot. That price can vary widely based on your location, the grade of concrete, and whether a hurricane has leveled New Orleans recently.

Assume that your sub base beneath the driveway requires preparation; that usually costs about $2 per foot unless you intend to do it yourself.

If an old concrete driveway needs to be removed, that raises your costs too, so be sure to figure it in the estimate.

Extras and Possible Discounts

Specialized materials or installations cost more. You knew that, of course. Stamped and colored concrete driveways require more materials and labor, which will raise the costs to about $5 to $20 per square foot. Slopes, curves, drains, and other details will raise your labor costs as well.

A smaller job won’t be more economical than a big one, because the cost of hauling the equipment and materials is about the same. You can lower the cost per square foot by having your driveway and sidewalk poured concurrently, or by partnering with a neighbor or two for a “package deal”.

You can plan your concrete driveway by deciding what you want, then figuring the more detailed costs for that. You could also set your budget, and then see what you can get for that price. The neat part is, you get to decide what your concrete driveway costs!