It is not recommended to use polished concrete for outdoor driveways as it is slippery when wet. For a more natural appearance, most poured concrete driveways will be left smooth. For $6 to $8 per square feet to install, a basic finish can be used. The other basic finishes range from $8 to $12.
Although permits may not be necessary for the construction of a driveway in all cases, it is worth checking with local authorities. A concrete apron that has been installed in the subdivision will typically be removed by the city. If you do not have a permit, your average permit costs are between $50 and $200.
Concrete driveway costs almost double due to labor. If the average price of concrete driveways is $4-$7 per sq. ft, then labor costs typically make up around $2-3 per sq. ft. Concrete costs make up the remainder. Construction workers will prepare the area, make the concrete forms, add the rebar if necessary, and lay the concrete. The concrete is then smoothed. The concrete forms are then removed after it has cured.
There are many design options, but most homeowners prefer either pavers, slabs, or stamped concrete. So many people wonder which one is better: stamped concrete or pavers and slabs.
The contractor will need to place rebar in the foundation if the driveway is going to be used for heavy loads or traffic. Rebar, or wire mesh, is used as a grid within concrete forms. Then the wet concrete is poured over the top to form a reinforced concrete surface. Additional materials and labor may be required to lay rebar. This adds an additional $1-3 per square foot.
A single-car driveway 10 feet by 20 foot could cost $800 - $1,600. A larger driveway, 24 feet by 24, costs $2,300 – $4,600. You can stamp decorative designs in concrete. The prices will rise beyond these averages. Concrete driveways usually measure 4 inches thick. If you park heavy vehicles or other equipment, however, you might need to increase the thickness. Concrete is generally sold per cubic yard. Concrete prices per yard range from $125 to $155.
Concrete is designed on-site so that you can decide the color and design. Concrete layers can be modified to add cement coloring, to give it a natural stone-like or marbled look.
Concrete is a great option for long-term durability. You might only need to have your driveway installed once while you own your house.
Every concrete driveway must be replaced eventually. They are expected to last for 30-40 years so they don't need to be replaced often. But there are some signs that you can look out for to help you plan a replacement driveway.
Concrete can look dull and boring, but it can be colored or stamped to make it unique.
You don't need permits to build driveways. However, it's a good idea not to disregard your local authorities. If a concrete apron is already installed in a subdivision it is more likely that the city will waive any permits. The average permit cost is between $50 and $200.
Wait at the least one week before driving or parking on the driveway. Let the concrete dry for a couple of months before sealing it.
Each of these features has its benefits, but there are some that are more beneficial than others depending on the circumstances. Here are some things to consider when you choose stamped concrete over pavers or slabs in your backyard.
Find stamped concrete contractors near you and learn more about hiring contractors to do exterior concrete work.