Concrete Driveway Cost: How Much Does it Cost to Install and Replace Concrete?

When homeowners are thinking about installing a concrete driveway, the first question that comes to mind is, "How much will it cost?". The answer you will usually get is, "it depends." This is because there are many factors to consider when determining the total cost, such as supplies, labor costs, location, and more. By the end of this article, you'll better understand the total cost of a concrete driveway and your home improvement budget moving forward.

How much does concrete driveway installation cost?

The average cost of a concrete driveway will range based on what area of the country you live in. Typically, one-car 12x12 concrete driveways are between $1,200 and $4,300, and the average total cost is around $2,800. The average price of a two-car 24x24 concrete driveway is between $2,300 and $8,600, averaging around $5400. When replacing an existing cement driveway, there will be extra costs to remove the old concrete, ranging from $800 - $3000.

Factors in Calculating Concrete Driveway Cost

Building a concrete driveway requires planning, materials, and labor. Before beginning the project, it's important to understand the cost of all these factors. Here's an overview of what factors you need to send when calculating concrete driveway cost.

1. 
   Size of Concrete Driveway

Of course, the size of your driveway is one of the most significant factors affecting the installation price. Most homeowners will have either a single-car or two-car driveway. A single-car driveway should be between 9 and 12 feet wide, while a two-car driveway should be closer to 20 feet wide. Another factor in the size of your Concrete is the thickness. The thicker the driveway is, the more expensive it will be. A residential concrete driveway should be at least 4 inches thick for standard passenger cars and 5 to 6 inches for heavier vehicles or RVs.

1. 
   Labor and Materials

Materials: The most common materials needed when building a concrete driveway include

1. 
   concrete
2. 
   forms and stakes
3. 
   reinforcement with rebar or wire mesh
4. 
   expansion joints

For the forms, you'll need to budget anywhere from $50 to $100. Extra supplies for a strong base, like gravel, may also be needed.

Labor: Complex projects require more labor and, therefore, more costs. The amount of labor required and the total labor cost will vary depending on the season. In areas with climates that prevent year-round concrete driveway installations, the demand and expenses for labor may be higher during the regular season. 

Urban areas tend to have higher labor rates than rural areas. When planning for your concrete driveway project, it is important to research local labor prices and availability in advance.

The complexity of Your Concrete Project 

The overall design and shape of your driveway will be another factor in the total price. Simple slab driveways are the most affordable. The more you add curves, unique shapes, and surfaces to the design of your Concrete. The more the price increases. The additional costs stem from unique forms that will be needed to be created by your concrete driveway contractor. The finish of your Concrete will also affect cost. For example, a stained and stamped concrete border to a 500-square-foot driveway can increase the costs by around $1,500.

Location and Weather Conditions 

The weather conditions of a location can significantly impact the cost of a concrete driveway. In addition, uneven ground, rocky soil, or a steep slope will need more prep work, time, materials, and labor costs. While Concrete will stay cool in hot climates, colder climates can cause concrete driveways to crack from constant freezing and thawing and road salt to erode the surface. If a homeowner lives in a region with extreme temperatures or seismic activity, they should make sure to factor this into the cost of the driveway.

Experience of Your Concrete Driveway Contractor

To ensure the longest lifespan possible for a new driveway. An experienced and professional concrete contractor is recommended. They will be able to help you plan and complete the job efficiently while also avoiding costly mistakes and issues during the process. Additionally, an experienced contractor can help you choose the best materials for the job. Experience concrete contractors will be more expensive on average. However, you will save time and money in the long run by installing a lasting driveway. 

Is it cheaper to asphalt or concrete a driveway?

When choosing between an asphalt or concrete driveway, there are several factors to consider. Including climate, budget, and appearance. Asphalt is the more cost-effective option, costing anywhere from $3 to $5 per square foot, while Concrete can cost up to $7 to $13 per square foot. While, asphalt may be cheaper initially, it needs to be resurfaced or resealed every 3 to 5 years. Concrete is much more durable and can last up to 50 years with occasional repairs. 

Concrete Driveway Contractor in Fort Collins

Contact a local contractor for a free consultation if you're interested in getting a concrete driveway installed or replaced.