Concrete Driveway Cost: The Complete Guide

Investing in a well-designed concrete driveway is a practical and visually appealing way to enhance your home's curb appeal and functionality. Some popular driveway surface options include exposed aggregate, flat-poured, and imprinted concrete driveways. 

An imprinted concrete driveway for a 30m2 two-car driveway costs approximately £3,800. While this is one of the more expensive options available, it can significantly impact the aesthetics of your home. However, concrete driveway costs vary depending on several factors, including materials, labour, and other expenses. 

Navigating the costs associated with such a project can be overwhelming, but understanding these factors is crucial to creating a concrete driveway within your budget.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the different components that influence concrete driveway cost. By gaining this knowledge, you can make informed decisions and achieve the driveway of your dreams while staying within your budget.

Are you ready to invest in a durable and long-lasting concrete driveway? If so, comparing quotes from multiple driveway specialists is critical to ensure you get the best deal on concrete driveway costs. But who has the time to compare quotes from various contractors? 

Well, we do! Household Quotes can help you save time and money. Fill out our 30-second form below, and we'll provide you with four free quotes from local driveway specialists. 

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On average, concrete driveways cost £3,750 for a standard two-car driveway of 30m2. However, to calculate the total cost of your concrete driveway, you need to consider the below:

The cost of an average driveway in the UK for an area of 30m2 ranges between £6,000 and £6,500. This means that choosing a concrete driveway can save you at least £2,000 on expenses. 

Concrete is an excellent option for those looking for inexpensive driveway ideas. It uses readily available raw materials, which reduces material costs. Additionally, concrete is quick to install, reducing the need for labour and, therefore, reducing the overall cost of a concrete driveway.

Understanding the different types of concrete driveways available and their associated costs is essential for making an informed decision. Below, we discuss low-, mid-, and high-priced concrete driveways in detail.

A low-priced concrete driveway is a cost-effective and durable solution. When planning for one, it's important to consider the size, shape, and complexity of the driveway you choose.

MyJobQuote suggests that the cost of a simple, small one-car driveway can range from £530 to £730. Opting for a smaller driveway can help reduce labour and material costs. Choosing a small 20m² driveway can help reduce the overall cost of concrete driveways. However, it is essential to ensure that the driveway you choose comfortably fits your car.

There are various types of concrete driveways. Opting for a simple design like flat-poured concrete can reduce costs. Flat-poured concrete driveways have a straightforward process of pouring, levelling, and finishing the concrete to create a flat surface. As the process is simple, it takes a shorter time to install, reducing the labour cost.

More complex designs, such as imprinted concrete, will increase the overall cost of the concrete driveway as pressing the pattern into the wet concrete takes more time and increases labour costs. Similarly, avoiding the installation of driveway accessories like edging, gates, or lights can help you stay within budget. For example, installing a new gate can add between £500 to £1000 to the overall cost of the concrete driveway. It's crucial to consider these additional costs if you're planning to install a low-priced concrete driveway.

Preparing the site beforehand, including groundwork and site preparation, can reduce the cost of your concrete driveway. According to PriceYourJob, you can save up to £1,000 on labour costs if you undertake some aspects of the project yourself. 

However, poorly installed driveways can result in higher costs in the future, so if you decide to undertake some aspects of the project yourself, please bear this in mind.

A mid-priced concrete driveway is an excellent option for balancing quality and affordability. It is constructed with standard-grade materials, with attention to detail to ensure a balance between cost and durability. This type of driveway is usually suitable for a two-car driveway between 30m2 and 40m2. It includes essential features such as property site preparation and basic finishing touches and costs an average of around £3,750.

If you opt for a mid-priced concrete driveway, you can add colour to the concrete to make it more unique and increase the aesthetic value of your property. The standard cost of coloured concrete is around £80 per m2. Opt for flat-poured coloured concrete over imprinted coloured concrete to stay within the mid-price range.

A mid-range concrete driveway will choose standard finishes. You can select cost-effective edging such as timber or concrete instead of a more expensive option like metal. Garden gates can also be installed, but according to PriceYourJob, non-electric gates that cost between £300 and £400 are more affordable than electric gates that can cost between £4500 and £5500.

When you effectively plan and compare the materials and finishes you choose, the cost of a concrete driveway can stay within the mid-range. 

A mid-priced concrete driveway is a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution that meets the needs of most projects. It provides long-term value with minimal maintenance required, making it an excellent choice for those on a reasonable budget.

A concrete driveway of high quality and price epitomises superior craftsmanship, attention to detail, and customisation in paving solutions. These driveways are constructed using premium-grade materials designed to exude luxury and sophistication. They often feature intricate patterns, decorative elements such as stamping or staining, and high-end finishes like exposed aggregate or polished surfaces. According to MyJobQuote, the cost of imprinted concrete 60m² that can fit four cars ranges from £4,950 to £5,150. 

While imprinted concrete is more expensive than flat-poured concrete, it is still much more cost-effective than traditional paving, such as brick or cobblestone. 

It still requires much less labour than other paving types, which is why it is an excellent choice for those of you on a budget but still looking for a unique entryway. Moreover, advanced sealing techniques may enhance the driveway's longevity and resistance to elements. Opting for a high-quality acrylic sealer may increase the concrete driveway cost. Still, it can ensure longevity and minimal repairs in the future.

Although the initial cost of a high-priced concrete driveway may seem steep, it offers unmatched beauty, durability, and curb appeal compared to budget-friendly options. These driveways are elegant statement pieces. They are committed to quality and excellence, making them a worthwhile investment.

Looking for the perfect concrete driveway within your budget? Collaborate with a professional driveway installer who can help you achieve your goals. Don't settle for less. Compare quotes from different installers to find the best possible deal.

At Household Quotes, we can provide you with four no-obligation quotes from local driveway installers that match your budget, requirements, and preferences. Our quick and easy 30-second form can get you started. Don't wait, get the best deals possible today!

Concrete is a cost-effective building material due to its abundance and ease of creation. MyJobQuote states that the average cost of materials per square metre for a concrete driveway ranges from £40 to £50.

This includes such driveway types as block paving concrete and flat-poured concrete.

On top of concrete material costs, the overall concrete driveway cost will increase as you must budget for other supplies. Below are the additional supply costs and their average cost:

Although weed barriers and edging are not essential for your concrete driveway, incorporating these features can significantly extend its lifespan. Weed barriers can prevent the growth of weeds, which means you won't have to spend much time on maintenance. Additionally, edging adds a decorative element to your driveway while helping it maintain its shape.

If you plan to construct a concrete driveway yourself, it is crucial to consider all the necessary supplies, including concrete mix and equipment, to complete the job. 

The cost of a concrete mix typically ranges from £65 to £85 per cubic metre. While you can opt for site-mix concrete, it is recommended that you opt for ready-mix concrete, as it is easier to pour. 

However, this is not the only cost of pouring your concrete driveway. Depending on your location, you must also consider the delivery charges ranging from £80 to £150. The delivery cost can be quite high since the concrete mix is shipped in a trunk rather than a parcel.

Moreover, as per CheckaTrade, you will need to rent a ready-mix concrete pump, which can cost around £300 to £400. Investigating these expenses is imperative when considering DIY-ing a concrete driveway.

Driveway installers charge a daily rate between £150 to £200 per day per person. Concrete driveway cost for labour depends on various factors, including the driveway's size, the design's complexity, local labour rates, and the materials' quality. 

Typically, contractors will provide estimates based on the square footage, excavation needs, reinforcement requirements, and any additional features like decorative finishes or staining. Other factors, such as site accessibility, soil conditions, and permitting requirements, can influence the overall cost. 

While it may be tempting to choose the lowest bid, it's essential to consider the contractor's reputation, experience, and portfolio to ensure quality artistry and adherence to timelines. 

Investing in a reputable contractor may come with a higher upfront cost. Still, it often pays off in the form of a durable, long-lasting driveway that enhances the curb appeal and value of the property.

Maintaining a concrete driveway is crucial. Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming costly repairs and it is a worthwhile investment for property owners. It ensures safety for pedestrians and vehicles, enhances the property's aesthetic appeal, and prolongs the driveway's lifespan.

For concrete driveways, it is recommended that you clean your driveway at least once a year, according to the Driveway Company. While you can maintain your own driveway, it might be a lot of intense labour. 

However, a quicker, more effective way is to hire a professional to clean your driveway. This costs on average £100 to £150 per day.

Various factors should be considered when comparing the cost of concreting a driveway with other materials. Concrete driveways are more expensive than alternatives like asphalt or gravel. However, they offer superior durability and longevity, which can result in reduced long-term maintenance and replacement costs, making them a worthwhile investment.

Concrete is more weather-resistant, can handle heavy traffic, and is less erosion-prone. Compared to alternatives like asphalt, which requires more frequent sealing and patching, concrete will require fewer repairs and less frequent resurfacing.

Additionally, concrete driveways provide a smooth, clean surface that enhances curb appeal and property value. This can offset the initial investment through improved aesthetics and resale value. 

While the cost of concreting a driveway may seem higher initially, considering factors such as durability, maintenance requirements, and aesthetic appeal can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run.