When it comes to driveway materials, concrete is one of the most popular options. There are other options, but concrete is a good bet if you want something that can withstand weather and daily use while still looking nice.
When installing or repairing your concrete driveway, you want to make sure the job is done correctly and affordably. It is not every day that a driveway is installed, so make sure you know what to budget for and what to expect when the time comes to pour that concrete. Concrete driveways are low-maintenance and can last anywhere from 20 to 50 years, so you might have to live with them for a while.
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Cost of a Concrete Driveway
Aside from simply laying down gravel, asphalt and concrete are the most cost-effective traditional driveway-paving options.
Concrete driveways can range from $1,800 to $6,000, with the most common price range being $3,000 to $4,000.
These price ranges are estimates to provide context, but prices can vary greatly depending on various factors such as size, location, labor cost, and materials. Meanwhile, the price will vary even more if your driveway needs additional reinforcement or removal of the existing surface.
Per Square Foot Cost of Concrete
You have a lot of options with a concrete driveway. A plain gray concrete driveway will cost between $5 and $7 per square foot.
However, if you want to add some decorative flourishes, the price will rise. Color, texture, or a border are all inexpensive upgrades that can cost between $8 and $12 per square foot. If you want to add more elaborate decorative appeal, such as engraving or multiple colors, the price will rise to $12-$18 per square foot. If you want a more upscale look with chemical stains, additional colors, or patterns, the price will start at $18 per square foot and rise from there.
The average driveway is 4 inches thick — but it may need to be thicker to support heavier vehicles. Weather and soil conditions in your area may also necessitate a thicker driveway slab, which will raise the price. If you live in an area that has snowy, icy winters, you might like to consider installing a heated driveway system, which might cost between $12 and $21 per square foot and is separate from the cost of a typical concrete driveway.
Concrete vs. Asphalt
Concrete and asphalt are the two most common driveway materials, and each has advantages and disadvantages. Let's take a closer look at each one.
Asphalt
Asphalt is made up of aggregates like rock, sand, or gravel and a binder and filler. It is typically less expensive than concrete, costing between $2 and $4 per square foot on average. Asphalt prices, on the other hand, tend to fluctuate in response to crude oil prices. A driveway made of asphalt can last for up to 30 years.
Asphalt is also easier to install and use than concrete. It usually has three layers: a base layer, a middle layer, and a top layer. Replacement is also less difficult because only the top layer is usually repaved when it comes time to resurface.
Asphalt, on the other hand, necessitates more recurring maintenance. It usually needs to be sealed between 6 months and a year after installation and then every three to five years. If homeowners want to save money, they can do it themselves.
Concrete
Concrete is made up of aggregates such as rock and sand, as well as a cement-and-water paste. The paste binds the aggregates together to form the rock-like mass of concrete.
Concrete is more expensive than asphalt, but it does not require as much maintenance as asphalt, such as regular sealing. A degreaser is typically used to remove oil and stains that can accumulate over time. Furthermore, concrete has a lifespan of 50 years or more, which is several decades longer than asphalt.
Cracks can occur in both concrete and asphalt. Asphalt may be easier to repair than concrete, which cannot be resurfaced as easily. It is also necessary to consider the climate. If you live in a hot climate, you may notice that asphalt sticks to your shoes. Concrete, on the other hand, may crack in a cold climate due to the constant freezing and thawing.
Cost of Replacing a Concrete Driveway
The cost of replacing your driveway ranges from $2,340 to $7,500. This includes both the cost of removing the existing concrete, which ranges from $540 to $1,510, and the cost of the new installation, which ranges from $1,800 to $6,000. The size and type of cement determine the exact rate.
When Should You Install a Driveway?
Depending on your climate, summer is probably the best time to build a driveway. Plan your trip when there are a few clear days with moderate temperatures. Installing an asphalt driveway is dirty work that requires a few days of clear skies to complete.
Is a Concrete Driveway a Good Investment?
It's certainly worth thinking about. Concrete is a better investment than gravel, and in many cases, it is even better than asphalt. Remember that a concrete driveway can last for 50 years, so it is not something you will need to replace on a regular basis.
