How Much Does a Cement Driveway Cost?

Cement driveways last for years.

Cement driveways are budget friendly, moderately priced, and durable. Expect yours to last 20 to 50 years. Maintenance is almost nil, and you can decorate your driveway stylishly to add to your home's curb appeal.

Cement

You will spend around $70 per cubic yard for your cement. Get at least three estimates for best pricing in your locale.

Grading

Leveling out your driveway will cost you about $45 per hour, depending on the complexity of the grading project. Slopes should run at least 1 percent to allow for water runoff.

Foundation

Cement needs a gravel base foundation before pouring, so it has something to bind to, which strengthens it. Expect to pay about $12 per cubic yard, delivered.

Reinforcements and Sealing

Reinforcing your driveway with wire, plastic mesh or steel reinforcing bar will cost you about a dime per square foot. Cement driveways need to be sealed, especially in harsh climates where freezing and thawing is an issue. Driveways in the Eastern United States set you back only 10 to 16 cents per sq/ft. Sealing upper Midwest driveways will usually be contracted per 1,000 square feet, about $85-$100 a unit.

Labor

Labor is the greatest cost in a cement driveway project. You will pay $1 per square foot minimum. If you order decorative cement, like stamped cement, expect to pay premium prices all-around.

Total Driveway Cost

Expect to pay up to $3 to $10 per square foot for a cement driveway. If your driveway is 10 by 40 feet, that comes to a minimum of $1,200.

References

• Service Magic: Concrete Driveway Cost Estimates
• Galt Tech: Concrete Driveway Cost
• Cost Helper: Cost of a Driveway

Resources

• Concrete Network: Contractors