Your driveway is one of the first things a visitor would notice in your home. If it is damaged, crumbled, or cracked, it can lower down your home’s resale and aesthetic value. Thus, a freshly poured concrete one is a good investment if you want to increase your home’s curb appeal.
Concrete driveways are typically more expensive than asphalt, but they require little maintenance and can last a long time if properly cared for.
The Cost of a Concrete Driveway
The owner of A+ Plus Concrete & Foundation Repair, Mr. Gary Salerno, stated that the average cost of a concrete driveway can range between $5,000 to $20,000, depending on some variables. He also said that experienced contractors who utilize high-class materials typically charge $7 to $10 per square foot.
Salerno also says that if the contractor is using a mix of 5,000 pounds per square inch strength and a rebar to strengthen it without using regular rock salt on it in the winter, you can expect your concrete entrance to last for a good 40 to 50 years.
Meanwhile, Greg Danis, proprietor of Danis Asphalt & Concrete, stated that $5 to $7 per square foot is generally the norm for a brand-new driveway. With these numbers, he says that it usually costs about $2,500 to pour concrete onto a 10 foot by 30-foot driveway, considering the additional expenses of mobilizing all equipment and the square footage.
Members of the popular website Angie’s List reported paying around $6,275 to $8,500 with a total average cost of $7,394 for a poured concrete entrance.
Depending on the location, prices can significantly change. For example, Angie’s List members reported an average of $6,803 in Columbus, Ohio. Meanwhile, Chicago members paid around $8,644, but the average cost in New York is significantly higher.
CostHelper estimated the average price to remove and replace a concrete driveway between $3 to $10 per square foot and $3,500 and $7,000 in total. However, it is important to note that prices may jump high for a spacious one with beautiful decorative elements.
Concrete Driveway Costs for Repairs
Gary Salerno says that common maintenance jobs usually include filling cracks, sealing and power washing. Another is resurfacing, which is basically the process of replacing your driveway’s top layer. He adds that depending on the damages caused by salt, the resurfacing process may cost $200 to $1,200.
Salerno also says that power washing and sealing may cost around $500 to $1,200. The price depends highly on the size and the type of sealer that will be used.
“If you live in the Midwest or Northeast, it’s important to maintain the concrete with cleaning and sealing and not using rock salt,” Salerno states. “Rinse out garages every spring from salt dripping off cars and make sure you keep your eyes on expansion joints that need to be replaced.”
On the other hand, Greg Danis says that the price to fix cracks costs typically over $300 since the company needs to mobilize all the equipment regardless of the scope of the project. He adds that his minimum charge is $450 and that the price goes up depending on the job.
Things that Determine the Cost of Driveway Repair
The price of a concrete driveway is determined by several factors. Salermo states that size is what affects pricing the most. He also mentions that you have to consider how much needs to be torn out, how many expansion joints you want, the type of finish you prefer, may it be broom finish, swirl finish or edges.
High-end concreters usually charge around a higher amount per square foot than regular ones. Additional costs will be charged for using the necessary equipment.
A concrete driveway is usually made up of 4-inch thick concrete reinforced with wire mesh or rebar. Another option is stamped concrete, which can create a specialized design, texture or color out of the usual regular concrete. Danis mentions that colored concrete may cost an additional $1 to $5 per square foot, while stamping can add an extra $2 to $5 per square foot.
The price of concrete driveways with ornate decorative elements can be pricier due to complex and hand-applied stenciling. You may also opt for stamped concrete. This will cost you a few dollars more per square foot.
Driveway Excavation Costs
To even out the lay of your driveway, excavation might be needed. This comes with an additional price computed per cubic yard if hand tools are utilized. The cost of land preparation covers mainly the removal of trees, stumps, boulders, and shrubs.
It is important to remember that the costs of permits-and-inspection fees and taxes are not yet included. Resurfacing a driveway may start at $200 and can go higher, depending on the number of damages. It is more expensive to fix a crack because of the equipment necessary for the repairs, and you can expect a higher bill for just crack repairs.
Tear out and Replacement Costs
A driveway costs higher if you need the old one to be removed first. Danis says that most property owners call for a tear out and replace, which may cost depending on the availability of the concrete, and the proximity of the area.
As per Angie’s List members, the average amount needed for a poured concrete driveway is $7,394. If you have a curved or a long driveway, you might have to prepare a little more money to cover the expenses.
Hiring Concreters with Local Resources
Based on your location, the price range may vary, especially if you are in a metro area. According to www.versatileconcreting.com.au/, It helps to consider that the price of a concrete driveway is different in New York City, as compared to Ohio and Chicago.
If you’re ready to hire a local concrete driveway company, take time to ask around and compare prices. Make sure to do your research so you can find the best professionals to cater to your needs.
