DIY Builds
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Is a concrete driveway worth it?

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, some holding steady until 50 years.

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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.

Concrete Driveway Cost

When it comes to concrete driveways, the cost can vary quite a bit depending on a number of factors. The size of the driveway, the type of concrete used, and the location all play a role in determining the final price. However, there are some general ballpark figures you can keep in mind when budgeting for your new concrete driveway. For a basic concrete driveway, you can expect to pay around $8 per square foot. If you want a more decorative concrete with stamped patterns or stained concrete, the price will go up to around $18 per square foot. These prices typically include all labor and materials. So all in all, you’re looking at a minimum of $8 per square foot for a simple concrete driveway, and upwards of $18 per square foot for a more elaborate one. If you have an existing driveway that needs to be torn out and removed, you can expect to pay an additional $1-$3 per square foot. Of course, these are just general estimates – for an exact quote, it’s best to consult with a concrete contractor in your area. Now that you know how much a concrete driveway costs, let’s talk about the benefits so you can decide if it is the right choice for your home.

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.

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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, 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.

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