How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost

Although there are several options to choose from when trying to decide on a driveway, concrete is probably the most widely used. This makes sense due to its durability and cost. Concrete may cost a little more than asphalt but is cheaper than several other materials such as brick or pavers.

The longevity of concrete saves money down the road and also offers a clean look when it comes to curb appeal. It’s actually where curb appeal starts, and believe it or not, swapping out that old, cracked driveway or installing a new one can be quite the game-changer for your home’s overall vibe.

Concrete Driveway Cost and Understanding the Basics

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of numbers, it’s crucial to understand what goes into a concrete driveway. It’s not just about pouring concrete onto a path leading to your garage. Factors such as size, thickness, finishes, and even your geographical location play a huge role in determining the final cost. Plus, there’s the removal of the old driveway if you’re looking to replace one.

The Concrete Driveway Cost Breakdown

The cost of a concrete driveway is like ordering from a menu with several add-ons; the base price is just the beginning. Typically, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $4 to $10 per square foot for a basic driveway. But, if you’re eyeing something a bit more decorative, such as stamped concrete or a special finish, those costs can leap up from $8 to $18 per square foot.

Concrete Driveway Cost Per Yard

Now, onto the concrete itself. The cost of concrete is usually calculated per cubic yard, and this is where the thickness of your driveway comes into play. A standard driveway is about 4 inches thick, but if you’re planning on welcoming heavier vehicles, you might want to consider going thicker, which, of course, affects the price. On average, concrete costs about $125 to $150 per cubic yard. But don’t forget, that delivery and labor costs will also need to be factored into your budget.

The Concrete Calculator

To avoid diving headfirst into a math headache, a concrete calculator can be your best friend. It’ll help you estimate the amount of concrete needed for your project by taking into account the driveway’s length, width, and desired thickness. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and order a bit more than you think you’ll need. Concrete isn’t something you can just run back to the store for if you run short.

Things to Consider

It’s not just about the concrete. Preparing the site, ensuring proper drainage, and getting the right permits are all part of the process that can add to the cost. Plus, don’t forget about the finishing touches. The right sealant can not only enhance the look of your driveway but also protect it from the elements, adding to its longevity and your home’s curb appeal.

Home Value

A good question and something to consider is whether a concrete driveway really adds value to your home. It can be a little pricier, but is spending the extra money worth it?

We have bought and sold many homes and I would say that something buyers always want to see is a concrete driveway. We’ve even gone the extra step and replaced asphalt with concrete to add value and attract more buyers.

It’s just something people expect to have if they are paying a decent amount of money for a home, if the home is newer, or if the home has been recently remodeled. I do feel like the value of a property will increase at least the amount you spent on the driveway or even more depending on the size of the driveway itself.

Curb Appeal

A driveway is one of those things everyone sees as they drive by the exterior of your home. A concrete driveway can definitely add to the curb appeal of your home! It will add a very clean and manicured look to the exterior. Taking the extra step and adding mulch and landscaping around the concrete will also add to the curb appeal and even take it to another level.

There are also many options for making concrete more decorative. With a range of colors, textures, and decorative finishes you have the ability to make a concrete driveway more than ordinary. Adding these custom features will add uniqueness and personality to the exterior of your home.

Low Maintenance

Even though concrete driveways cost a little more upfront, the longevity and low maintenance of concrete are well worth the extra cost. If properly sealed every couple of years, it should hold up and not have to be replaced until at least 25 years, with some holding steady until 50 years. This depends on how well they are built and maintained. The only negative is that oil stains are a little harder to remove, so I try to avoid any leaky cars if possible.