How Much is Concrete Per Yard?
Want to know how much concrete costs per yard? Discover everything you need about your project costs—from concrete prices to site preparation and labor. Read now!
Concrete is the backbone of countless construction and home improvement projects, offering durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. From creating walkways and patios to building sturdy driveways and concrete slabs, this material is a top choice for homeowners and professionals alike. But before diving into your next concrete project, understanding the cost is essential to ensure it fits within your budget.
The cost of a cubic yard of concrete is influenced by several factors, including the type of concrete, delivery fees, and labor costs. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast tackling smaller projects or working with concrete contractors on a larger-scale job, having a clear picture of concrete prices and the total cost involved is key.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about concrete pricing, from average costs and delivery fees to tips for cost-effective installations. By the end, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding to confidently plan your project, whether you're pouring a concrete patio, ordering ready-mix concrete, or calculating the amount of concrete needed for your driveway. Let’s dive in!
When discussing concrete prices, you'll often hear the term "cubic yard." But what does that mean, and how does it apply to your project? A cubic yard of concrete is a standard measurement representing a volume of 27 cubic feet, roughly the size of a washing machine. This measurement is commonly used because it aligns with how concrete is mixed, delivered, and poured in large quantities, making it ideal for both smaller projects like patios and larger ones like concrete driveways.
The national average cost of a cubic yard of concrete ranges between $110 and $180. This includes the material but excludes delivery fees and labor costs. Prices can fluctuate based on factors like local demand, aggregate availability, and market conditions.
The coverage of a cubic yard depends on the thickness of the concrete slab you're pouring. For example:
Understanding these dimensions is crucial for determining how much concrete you'll need for your project. For irregularly shaped areas or projects requiring different thicknesses, a concrete calculator can simplify this process by providing an accurate cost estimate based on your specific dimensions. To put concrete volume into perspective:
Knowing this helps you decide whether to mix and pour the concrete yourself for smaller projects or order concrete from a concrete delivery company for larger-scale tasks.
The price of a cubic yard of concrete isn’t fixed—it varies depending on several key factors. Understanding these variables can help you make informed decisions and optimize your budget for your concrete project. Let’s take a closer look at what drives the cost.
Concrete comes in various types, each designed for specific purposes. The choice of concrete affects the price:
Additives like fiber reinforcement, coloring agents, or accelerators can increase costs. These enhancements improve concrete durability, aesthetics, or curing time, making them worthwhile for specific applications like concrete driveways or patios.
Aggregate (gravel and sand) is a key ingredient in concrete. The type and quality of aggregate can influence the price. Additionally, preparing a proper subbase to support the concrete slab may involve extra costs for materials and labor.
Larger projects, such as a concrete driveway or a foundation slab, often benefit from bulk discounts on concrete, but they also require more labor and materials like rebar, wire mesh, and concrete forms. On the other hand, smaller projects may incur a short load fee if the amount of concrete ordered doesn’t meet the minimum requirement for delivery.
Concrete delivery companies typically charge delivery fees based on the distance from the mixing plant to the job site Homeowners can expect to pay an additional $40 to $100 per truckload for transportation within a typical range. For smaller projects that don’t require a full truckload, concrete delivery companies often charge a short load fee of $20 to $60 per cubic yard to offset operational costs. Remote job sites, complex driveways, or locations requiring special equipment may incur extra charges.
Hiring concrete contractors adds professional labor costs to the total. In general, if you hire concrete contractors for your project, installation costs can range from $4 to $10 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the job. For high-end finishes like stamped or stained concrete, expect costs to reach $15 to $25 per square foot. These costs depend on the complexity of the installation, including:
If you are taking up a DIY project you may also need to rent equipment like a concrete mixer (around $50 to $100 per day) and purchase tools, adding to the project cost.
If your site requires clearing vegetation, debris, or old structures, expect to pay $500–$2,500 depending on the size and complexity.
Additional expenses can creep into your budget, including:
Accurately estimating the total cost of your concrete project is crucial for staying within budget. Whether you're tackling a DIY project or working with concrete contractors, having a detailed cost estimate helps avoid surprises and ensures your project runs smoothly.
A concrete calculator is a simple tool that takes your project’s dimensions and calculates the amount of concrete required. Here’s how to use one:
For example, a 10x10-foot patio 4 inches thick would require about 1.23 cubic yards of concrete.
When estimating your total concrete cost, don’t forget to account for these additional expenses:
If you hire a contractor, labor costs should be included in your estimate. Use these guidelines:
For example, a 300-square-foot concrete patio installed by professionals might cost between $1,200 and $3,000, depending on the finish and thickness.
Small but significant expenses can add up, such as:
Concrete projects can be costly, but with careful planning and smart decisions, you can keep expenses under control without sacrificing quality. Here are some actionable tips to make your concrete installation more cost-effective.
Accurate calculations are crucial for avoiding waste and unnecessary costs. Use a concrete calculator to estimate the exact amount of concrete needed for your project. Include a small margin (5–10%) for errors but avoid over-ordering, which can lead to excess material.
If you have multiple small projects, such as a patio and a walkway, combine them into a single concrete order. This helps you meet the minimum requirement for a full truckload and avoids short load fees.
Match the type of concrete to your project to avoid overspending on unnecessary features. You can use ready-mix concrete for larger projects like driveways and slabs. If you are undertaking a smaller DIY project, opt for bags of concrete. Avoid using specialty mixes unless your project demands enhanced durability or decorative finishes.
For smaller projects like walkways or small patios, doing the work yourself can save money on labor costs. You can purchase pre-mixed bags of concrete from a home improvement store. Rent essential tools, like a mixer or finishing tools, instead of buying them outright. But when doing DIY, ensure proper preparation and follow best practices to achieve professional results.
Timing your project strategically can also reduce costs.., Avoid peak construction seasons when demand for concrete is higher, which can drive up prices. Coordinate with concrete delivery companies for bulk orders or shared delivery schedules.
Reinforcement materials and forms can add up quickly. Here are some ways you can save money:
You can reduce transportation expenses by choosing a local concrete delivery company to minimize travel distance. Also, pick a nearby supplier to avoid high delivery fees and potential surcharges for remote locations.
Delays during installation can lead to wasted materials and additional costs. To avoid this ensure the job site is prepared before the concrete truck arrives. Have your team or tools ready to pour and finish the concrete promptly.
Decorative finishes like stamped or stained concrete can be expensive. If not required, consider going for simpler finishing techniques, such as broom finishes, for a cost-effective yet attractive look. You can also do DIY staining or sealing to save on professional finishing costs.
Concrete is a versatile and essential material for countless home improvement and construction projects, but its costs can quickly add up without proper planning. By understanding the factors that affect concrete prices, such as the type of concrete, delivery fees, and labor costs, you can create a detailed cost estimate that aligns with your budget.
Using tools like a concrete calculator, combining smaller projects, and choosing cost-effective materials are just a few strategies to save money without compromising quality. Whether you're installing a concrete patio, driveway, or slab, careful planning and attention to detail can ensure your project is both durable and affordable.
For homeowners taking the DIY route, proper preparation and accurate measurements are key to avoiding waste and achieving professional results. For larger or more complex jobs, working with reputable concrete contractors and delivery companies can simplify the process and help ensure a smooth installation.
Ultimately, the key to a successful concrete project lies in balancing cost, quality, and durability. With the insights provided in this guide, we hope you’re well-equipped to make informed decisions and confidently bring your project to life. If you need help with your concrete project, contact Ergeon today! Our team of experts is here to guide you every step of the way—from site preparation and cost estimation to the final installation.
Concrete & Pavement Guides
Concrete & Pavement Guides
Concrete & Pavement Guides
