How much does a concrete driveway cost per square foot?

Concrete driveway costs typically range from $8-15 per square foot, depending on concrete strength, finish type, and local labor rates. Basic broom finish costs $8-10/sq ft, while stamped concrete can cost $12-15/sq ft. Additional factors include site preparation, drainage, and reinforcement requirements.

How long does concrete driveway installation take?

Standard concrete driveway installation takes 2-3 days for basic projects. Day 1: site preparation and formwork. Day 2: concrete pouring and finishing. Day 3: curing and cleanup. Complex designs with decorative finishes may take 4-7 days. Weather conditions can extend the timeline.

What is the minimum concrete thickness for a driveway?

The minimum concrete thickness for driveways is 4 inches for light residential traffic. For heavy vehicles, RVs, or commercial use, use 6 inches. In areas with freeze-thaw cycles, consider 6-8 inches for better durability. Thicker concrete provides better load-bearing capacity and longevity.

How do I prevent concrete driveway cracking?

Prevent cracking by ensuring proper base preparation with compacted gravel, installing control joints every 10-15 feet, using proper concrete mix with reinforcement, maintaining consistent curing conditions, and avoiding heavy loads during the first 28 days. Proper drainage and expansion joints also help prevent damage.

How do I maintain a concrete driveway?

Maintain your concrete driveway by regularly cleaning with mild detergent, sealing every 2-3 years, repairing cracks promptly, avoiding harsh chemicals, keeping drainage clear, and removing stains quickly. Annual inspections help identify issues early. Professional sealing extends the life and appearance of your driveway.

Concrete Driveway Cost Calculator

Driveway Parameters

Driveway Type

Select driveway width type

Length

Driveway length

Width

Driveway width

Concrete Thickness

Concrete thickness

Concrete Type

Select concrete strength

Finish Type

Select finish style

Calculation Results

Concrete Driveway Cost Calculator: Your Guide to Driveway Installation

Planning a new concrete driveway? Our Concrete Driveway Cost Calculator helps you estimate the total cost of materials, labor, and finishing for your project.

Understanding Concrete Driveway Costs

Concrete driveway costs are influenced by several factors:

Material Costs: Concrete type and quantity
Labor Costs: Installation and finishing
Site Preparation: Excavation and grading
Finishing Options: Surface treatments and patterns
Additional Features: Drainage and reinforcement

How to Use the Concrete Driveway Cost Calculator

Select Driveway Type: Choose the width type
Enter Length: Input the driveway length
Enter Width: Input the driveway width
Enter Thickness: Input the concrete thickness
Select Concrete Type: Choose the strength
Select Finish Type: Choose the finish style
Click Calculate: Get cost estimate

Concrete Driveway Cost Calculation Formula

Volume Calculation:
V = L × W × T

Cost Calculation:
C = (V × M) + (A × L) + F

Where:
V = Volume (cubic yards)
L = Length (feet)
W = Width (feet)
T = Thickness (inches)
M = Material cost per cubic yard
A = Area (square feet)
L = Labor cost per square foot
F = Finish cost

Common Concrete Driveway Specifications

Single Car Driveway:
- Width: 10-12 feet
- Thickness: 4-6 inches
- Concrete: 3000-4000 PSI
Double Car Driveway:
- Width: 20-24 feet
- Thickness: 4-6 inches
- Concrete: 4000-5000 PSI
Custom Driveway:
- Width: 8+ feet
- Thickness: 4-8 inches
- Concrete: Custom mix

Real-World Examples

Example 1: Standard Single Car Driveway

Driveway Type: Single Car
Length: 40 feet
Width: 12 feet
Thickness: 4 inches
Concrete Type: Standard (3000 PSI)
Finish Type: Broom Finish
Results:
- Volume: 5.9 cubic yards
- Area: 480 square feet
- Material Cost: $1,180
- Labor Cost: $2,400
- Finish Cost: $480
- Total Cost: $4,060

Example 2: Premium Double Car Driveway

Driveway Type: Double Car
Length: 60 feet
Width: 24 feet
Thickness: 6 inches
Concrete Type: Premium (5000 PSI)
Finish Type: Stamped Concrete
Results:
- Volume: 26.7 cubic yards
- Area: 1,440 square feet
- Material Cost: $6,675
- Labor Cost: $7,200
- Finish Cost: $7,200
- Total Cost: $21,075

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does installation take?

Typically 2-3 days for standard driveways, longer for complex designs.

What affects concrete strength?

Mix design, curing conditions, and reinforcement.

How do I maintain the driveway?

Regular cleaning, sealing, and crack repair.

What is the minimum thickness?

4 inches for light traffic, 6 inches for heavy traffic.

How do I prevent cracking?

Proper base preparation, control joints, and curing.