How much does a concrete driveway cost?

The exact cost of adding a driveway to your home may vary depending on a range of factors, from the materials being used to the size and shape of the area where it will be installed. Here are some of the factors that you may need to consider when budgeting for a driveway, before working out finance options.

You can start estimating the cost of a driveway by measuring the area to be concreted – for example, a 3 metres (the minimum driveway width in most Australian councils) by 6 metre driveway means 18 square metres of concreting. If the layout of your property means that you require a particularly wide, long, or even a winding driveway, the more square metres it may take up, and the more you may expect to pay.

According to hipages, a plain concrete driveway costs between $65 and $85 per square metre on average at the time of writing, though this may vary depending on your location and market forces. However, you may end up paying more if you’re concreting a sloping surface rather than a flat surface, and if you’re using materials other than plain concrete, such as coloured concrete, decorative pebblecrete (sometimes called exposed aggregate), or stencilled or stamped concrete. Other options could include laying pavers.

Keep in mind that this only covers the cost of the concreting itself. Excavating the driveway and setting a solid base will likely also be required, along with removing any debris and waste material, all of which will need to be paid for. You may also choose to add sealants or other finishes to your driveway, which could cost extra. And depending where you live, there may be fees and charges you’ll need to pay for permits from your local council, such as if your driveway has a crossover with a public footpath.

The cost of concreting may also depend on the concreter you choose. You may want to get several quotes from different concreters and compare your options before making your decision. Experienced concreters who are insured, have references and offer workmanship guarantees may prove better suited to taking care of more complex concreting projects, such as if you want a large decorative or ornamental driveway for your home.

You may have several options available for financing your driveway project. As well as using your savings, credit card, or taking out a renovation personal loan, another option could be accessing the equity in your home, either by refinancing and topping up your home loan, or taking out a home equity line of credit.

A strong and durable high-quality concrete driveway could last for decades and may help to enhance the aesthetics of your home, as well as its future resale value. That said, beware of overcapitalising when undertaking any renovation project.

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