Concrete guide
Concrete Projects: Costs, Mix Types, Curing, and How to Hire
From driveways to patios to foundations — concrete is one of the most durable materials in home construction. Here's what every homeowner needs to know before starting a concrete project.
Common Concrete Projects & Typical Costs
Concrete is used across dozens of residential applications. Here's what each typically costs.
| Project | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Concrete driveway | $4–$8/sq ft |
| Concrete patio | $6–$12/sq ft |
| Concrete sidewalk/walkway | $6–$12/sq ft |
| Concrete steps | $300–$500 per step |
| Concrete slab (shed/garage) | $5–$10/sq ft |
| Concrete repair (crack/spalling) | $300–$1,500 |
| Decorative/stamped concrete | $12–$20/sq ft |
Concrete Mix Types: What the Numbers Mean
Concrete strength is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). The right mix depends on your application.
2,500 PSI
Residential sidewalks, patios, non-structural slabs
Minimum for most residential flatwork
3,000 PSI
Driveways, garage floors, standard foundations
Most common residential mix
3,500–4,000 PSI
Heavy vehicle traffic, commercial driveways, pool decks
Recommended for areas with freeze-thaw cycles
5,000+ PSI
Structural columns, heavy load-bearing applications
Typically specified by an engineer
Reinforcement: Rebar or wire mesh reinforcement is standard for driveways and slabs. Fibre reinforcement is added to the mix to reduce cracking. Ask your contractor what reinforcement is included in their quote.
Curing: The Step That Determines Durability
Concrete doesn't 'dry' — it cures through a chemical reaction that requires moisture. Proper curing is critical to strength and longevity.
Keep it moist for 7 days
Cover fresh concrete with plastic sheeting or burlap and keep it damp. Concrete that dries too fast is weak and prone to cracking.
Avoid traffic for 24–48 hours
Foot traffic can resume after 24 hours. Keep vehicles off for at least 7 days; heavy vehicles should wait 28 days.
Protect from extreme temperatures
Don't pour concrete when temperatures are below 40°F or above 90°F without special precautions. Cold slows curing; heat accelerates it and can cause cracking.
Apply a sealer
Sealing concrete after it fully cures (28 days) protects against stains, freeze-thaw damage, and surface wear. Reapply every 2–5 years.
DIY vs Hiring a Pro
DIY
Suitable for:
- Small repair patches (under 10 sq ft)
- Resurfacing an existing slab with overlay products
- Setting a small concrete post
Not suitable for:
- Any slab over 50 sq ft
- Driveways or structural slabs
- Stamped or decorative concrete
- Any project requiring permits
Hire a Pro
Why hire a pro:
- Concrete has a narrow working window — mistakes are permanent
- Proper grading and base preparation requires experience
- Pros have the equipment to finish large slabs before they set
- Structural work requires permits and inspections
Frequently Asked Questions
Concrete costs vary by project type, thickness, reinforcement, and regional labor rates. Figures reflect typical US market rates as of 2026 and are for budgeting purposes only.