Driveway Replacement Cost Guide

Looking to replace your Houston driveway? Become Cost-Ready!

As a Houston homeowner, you'll likely know when it's time to replace your concrete driveway. Understanding the costs associated with visible cracks, sinking sections, or the demands of your HOA or home insurance company can help you plan and budget effectively. This driveway replacement cost guide will give you a clear picture of what to expect when replacing your driveway, allowing you to prepare for cost discussions with contractors.

When planning a driveway replacement, several factors can influence the total cost:

1. Driveway Size (Square Footage):

The size of your driveway is one of the most important cost factors. Larger driveways necessitate more materials and labor, which directly affects the overall cost.

2. Concrete Thickness:

The industry standard for residential driveway thickness is typically 4 inches. However, thicker concrete (6–8 inches) is frequently used for areas that will withstand heavier loads, which can raise costs. AB Concrete uses 4000 psi concrete rather than the 3000 psi that many other contractors use, which offers greater durability.

3. Subgrade Preparation:
A stable subgrade is essential for a durable driveway. This entails laying a sub-base of aggregate material to prevent soil displacement. If your subgrade requires significant work, it can increase the overall cost.

4. Remove the Existing Driveway:
Demolition and disposal are required when removing an old driveway, which increases the project cost. This step is required to provide a solid foundation for your new driveway.

5. Additional Features:

Adding decorative finishes, edging, or drainage systems can improve your driveway's appearance and functionality, but they can also be costly.

To help you understand costs, replacing a driveway typically runs between $9.50 and $10.00 per square foot. This is how we base our driveway replacement cost estimates.

The price includes:

• Labor
• Concrete for a 4" thick driveway slab
• 3/8" rebar placed 14" apart each way
• Expansion joints as necessary
• Break out and removal of the old concrete
• Concrete pouring, finishing, and curing
• Site preparation: grading, leveling, and compacting the subgrade (the layer below the concrete)

We ensure the site is clean when we leave.

Please note that the written quote or agreement between the owner and customer supersedes the educational information on this page. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Please keep in mind that these are estimates, and actual costs may differ depending on the scope of your project and the location.

What is subgrade?
The subgrade refers to the soil and material beneath your driveway. A properly prepared subgrade provides a stable foundation for the driveway replacement ensuring its strength and longevity.

Why is it important?
Without a solid subgrade, your driveway is more likely to crack and settle with time. Proper preparation can help you avoid costly repairs in the future.

Subgrade Preparation Process:

• Assessment: The contractor evaluates the condition of the current subgrade.
• Excavation: The existing driveway will be removed and the area excavated.
• Laying Sub-base: Applying layers of Select fill (Sandy Clay) form a stable foundation.
• Compaction: Compacting the Select fill makes for a solid subgrade and is then ready for building the rebar mats prior to pouring the concrete.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

If more work is required to improve the subgrade, it will increase the overall cost.

To get the most accurate and competitive quotes for your driveway replacement, consider these tips:

1. Get multiple quotes:
Request quotes from several reputable concrete contractors in the Houston area. This gives you a variety of options and helps you understand the market rate.

2. Discuss the Project Details:
When speaking with contractors, go over all aspects of the project, including size, concrete thickness, subgrade preparation, and any extra features you desire. This will ensure that you receive a comprehensive and accurate estimate.

3. Verify Experience and Reviews.
Check the contractor's experience and read customer testimonials. AB Concrete has extensive experience with residential and commercial concrete work, ensuring high-quality results. Many satisfied customers have left positive feedback, emphasizing their expertise and professionalism.

When it comes time for a driveway replacement, AB Concrete uses only the highest quality materials and pays meticulous attention to detail. Your new driveway will last longer because you used 4,000 psi strengthconcrete rather than other contractors' 3,000 psi concrete, which has greater strength and durability. This higher psi concrete is especially useful in resisting heavy loads and reducing the likelihood of cracking, resulting in a more durable and long-lasting surface.

There are a few reasons why homeowners may need to a driveway replacement

1. Visible Damage: Cracks, potholes, and crumbling edges indicate that your driveway requires replacement. These issues can worsen over time, causing more extensive damage.

2. Structural Issues:
Sunken or uneven surfaces in your driveway can be a tripping hazard and may indicate deeper structural issues.

3. HOA or Insurance Requirement:
Homeowners' associations (HOAs) and insurance companies frequently set property maintenance standards. If your driveway does not meet these standards, you may need to replace it.

4. Aesthetic Reasons:
A new driveway can significantly improve your home's curb appeal, attracting potential buyers and increasing its overall value.

1. Increased Durability: 4,000 psi concrete mix is stronger and more durable than 3,000 psi concrete, making it ideal for high traffic areas and heavy loads.

2. Improved Resistance to Cracking:
Higher psi provides greater resistance to cracking, which is especially important in Houston's changing climate.

3. Longevity:
A driveway made with 4,000 psi concrete mix will last longer, requiring fewer repairs and replacements over time.

AB Concrete ensures that every aspect of your driveway replacement is completed with care and precision. From the first assessment to the final touches, we pay close attention to detail. Our team keeps the job site clean and organized while protecting your property by covering bushes, siding, and garage doors to avoid concrete splatter.

Replacing your driveway is a significant investment, but with the right information and a reputable contractor, you can achieve a high-quality result.

Our owner's dedication to using high-quality materials and providing exceptional service makes us the best choice for Houston driveway replacement.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and we'll help you transform your driveway into a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing addition to your home.