We constantly get this question: “How much does it cost to repave a driveway with concrete?” The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Costs can vary based on the size of your driveway, site conditions, materials, and whether you’re starting from scratch or replacing an existing surface.
At Richfield Concrete, we walk homeowners through the full scope of installing a strong, long-lasting concrete driveway. Whether your current surface is crumbling or upgrading from asphalt, we help you understand every factor contributing to the final cost.
Factors to Consider Before You Repave a Driveway with Concrete
Repaving a driveway is a major home improvement decision. Before we begin, we assess a few key elements to determine what the job will require:
1. Driveway size and layout: A small straight driveway costs less than a large curved one or a wide pad with added parking.
2. Current surface condition: If the existing driveway needs to be torn out or if there are issues like soft subgrade or drainage problems, the labor and materials cost will increase.
3. Access to the site: Limited space or difficult access can increase prep and pour time.
4. Thickness of the slab: Thicker concrete is more durable but requires more material and reinforcement.
Understanding these project details upfront is crucial for providing accurate quotes and preventing surprise costs later, especially when they’re deciding whether to repair or replace a concrete driveway.
Typical Cost Range to Repave a Driveway with Concrete
Concrete driveway replacement in Minneapolis typically costs between $8 and $15 per square foot, depending on the job’s complexity and materials. For a standard two-car driveway (around 600–700 square feet), homeowners can expect to spend between $5,000 and $10,000. Understanding these costs and the concrete paving timeline is key when planning your project.
Here’s what’s usually included in that range:
– Demolition and removal of existing concrete or asphalt
– Subgrade preparation, including compacting and leveling
– Form setup and reinforcement (fiber or wire mesh)
– Concrete pouring and finishing
– Basic curing and cleanup
Custom finishes like stamped patterns, decorative borders, or colored concrete can raise the price, add curb appeal, and long-term value.
Common Driveway Issues That Cost
We often uncover hidden problems once demolition begins, issues that can directly impact your concrete driveway cost. Poor backfilling from a previous project, shallow base material, or drainage issues can all lead to extra prep work. One issue we see frequently is that driveways and garage floors settle at different rates. The garage is typically built on a frost-protected foundation, while the driveway rests on compacted soil. Over time, this difference in movement causes cracking or uneven transitions between the two.
To address this properly, we sometimes need to regrade the area, install better drainage, or adjust the thickness of the new pour to match the garage slab. Taking care of these issues now saves on costly repairs later.
Should You Repave with Concrete or Switch to Asphalt?
When homeowners compare materials, the conversation often turns to concrete versus asphalt. Each has its benefits, but the long-term value of concrete usually wins out. Concrete driveways offer:
– Longer lifespan (30+ years with proper care)
– Lower maintenance over time
– Better load-bearing strength
– Improved curb appeal and resale value
Asphalt driveways cost less upfront (typically $3 to $7 per square foot) but require frequent maintenance and sealing. They’re also more susceptible to damage from heat and heavy vehicles.
We recommend concrete for homeowners looking for durability, long-term savings, and a clean, finished look. And when properly installed, a concrete driveway handles Minnesota’s freeze-thaw cycles far better than asphalt.
Repave Your Driveway with Confidence
The cost to repave a concrete driveway depends on more than just materials; it’s about building it right from the base up. At Richfield Concrete, we never compromise on quality. We use proven techniques, quality materials, and decades of local experience to ensure your new driveway is smooth, strong, and built to handle Minnesota weather.
We’ll provide a precise estimate, explain every step, and help you choose the right options for your home and budget. Contact Richfield Concrete today to schedule your free driveway evaluation and get started on your next home improvement investment.
