Concrete flatwork costs typically range from **$8 to $12 per square foot** for standard installations, including labor and materials. This covers basic driveways, sidewalks, and patios with a broom finish. More elaborate finishes, such as stamped or colored concrete, will increase the cost.

The labor cost for concrete flatwork can vary depending on the complexity of the project. Here's a general estimate:

• Typical labor rate: $50 - $75 per hour per worker
• Crew size:  Often 2-3 workers for smaller projects, more for larger projects
• Estimated cost:  $4 - $8 per square foot (this often includes demolition and site preparation)

Factors that can influence labor costs include:

• Accessibility: Difficult-to-access areas might require more labor.
• Demolition: Removing existing concrete adds to the labor cost.
• Formwork: Complex shapes and designs require more time for formwork.
• Finishing: Decorative finishes like stamping or staining increase labor time.

A concrete crew can typically tear out and replace a concrete driveway in 1 to 3 days. The first day or two are usually spent on demolition and formwork, while the final day is for pouring and finishing the concrete. Larger projects or those with complex designs may take longer.

• Concrete:  The cost of concrete varies depending on the type and strength required.
• Gravel:  A gravel subbase is often used for drainage and stability.
• Forms:  Forms are used to shape the concrete.
• Reinforcement:  Reinforcing materials like rebar may be used for added strength.
• Finishing materials:  These may include sealers, stains, or decorative aggregates.

The prices in the table are based on standard concrete flatwork installations in an average suburban area. Concrete flatwork costs can vary substantially by location. If you are located in the East or West Coast, you could expect to pay 15% to 50% more than the recommended price provided. Consult our location multiplier index for more accurate pricing in your market.

Contacting local concrete contractors is the best way to get accurate pricing. Explain that you are a real estate investor who needs a rough budget for concrete flatwork. Be specific about the type of project (driveway, sidewalk, patio) and the approximate size. Most contractors should be able to provide a general range.

Tips for contacting contractors:

• Be upfront about your needs:  Let them know you are gathering preliminary estimates.
• Don't pressure them for a firm quote:  Explain that you will contact them for a formal quote when you have a specific project ready.
• Get multiple quotes:  Reach out to several contractors in your area to compare pricing.

Several factors can influence the final cost of your concrete flatwork project:

• Pavement Finish/Patterns: The type of finish you choose for your concrete significantly impacts the cost. A standard broom finish is the most economical option, typically falling within the $4 to $8 per square foot range. However, if you desire a more decorative finish, such as stamped or dyed concrete, expect to pay a premium, potentially upwards of $15 per square foot.
• Amount of Pavement: Larger concrete projects often benefit from economies of scale. This means that the cost per square foot may be lower for larger driveways or patios compared to smaller ones.
• Pavement Shape: Simple, rectangular shapes are generally easier and less expensive to form and pour than those with curves, angles, or intricate designs. Complex shapes require more time and labor for formwork construction, which can increase costs.
• Concrete Demolition & Removal: If your project involves removing existing concrete, this will add to the overall cost. Demolition and disposal of old concrete can range from $1 to $3 per square foot, depending on the thickness and accessibility of the existing concrete.
• Repairs to Adjacent Areas: Concrete work can sometimes damage surrounding landscaping or grass. It's essential to factor in potential costs for repairing or re-seeding these areas after the concrete project is complete.
• Accessibility: The accessibility of the project site can influence labor and equipment costs. Concrete flatwork installed in easily accessible areas, such as driveways at the front of a house, will generally be less expensive than patios or walkways located in the backyard, which might require wheelbarrows or concrete pumps to transport materials.
• Location:  Labor and material costs can vary significantly based on your geographical location. Urban areas and regions with high construction demand often have higher concrete prices than rural or less populated areas.
• Seasonality: Concrete work is often influenced by weather conditions. Peak seasons for concrete work, such as spring and summer, can also affect pricing due to higher demand and contractor availability.

Estimating the amount of concrete flatwork needed for your project involves calculating the total square footage of the area to be paved. Here's a breakdown of how to measure for different situations:

For simple rectangular areas (like a basic driveway or patio):

1. Measure the length and width: Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of the area.
2. Calculate the area: Multiply the length by the width to find the total square footage.

For more complex shapes (with curves or angles):

1. Divide the area into smaller sections: Break down the complex shape into smaller, more manageable shapes, such as rectangles, triangles, or squares.
2. Measure each section: Measure the length and width (or base and height for triangles) of each individual section.
3. Calculate the area of each section: Use the appropriate formulas to calculate the area of each shape (length x width for rectangles, (base x height)/2 for triangles).
4. Add the areas together: Sum the areas of all the individual sections to find the total square footage of the concrete flatwork.

Now that you've measured the area of your concrete flatwork and have a good understanding of the total square footage, you can calculate a rough budget for your project. To do this, multiply the total square footage by your budgeted price per square foot for the type of concrete work you want to do.

For example, let's say you have a 500 square foot driveway that you want to replace. If your budgeted cost for a new concrete driveway is $6 per square foot, your estimated budget would be:

• 500 square feet x $6/square foot = $3,000

Keep in mind that this is a rough estimate. The actual cost may vary depending on factors such as the finish of the concrete, the complexity of the shape, and whether you need to remove existing concrete. Always consult with local concrete contractors for accurate pricing in your area.

For a 400 square foot patio:

• Patio area: 400 square feet
• Estimated cost (using $6/sq ft): 400 square feet x $6/square foot = $2,400

If you need to demolish existing concrete:

• Demolition cost (using $2/sq ft): 400 square feet x $2/square foot = $800
• Total estimated cost: $2,400 + $800 = $3,200