How Much Does Concrete Sidewalk Installation Cost?

Adding a concrete sidewalk makes your home more inviting and accessible. Concrete sidewalks are also incredibly durable and long-lasting, especially when they are maintained properly. Before starting a concrete project, you should first consider our allotted budget. Whether you want to install concrete sidewalks or walkways, many factors affect total project costs.

In this blog, we will discuss how much you will likely pay for a concrete sidewalk.

Average Cost of Concrete Sidewalks

Most concrete contractors charge by square foot as it provides an accurate estimate of the total cost. The greater the square footage of the sidewalk, the higher the project expenses will be. 

Prices typically range between $8 and $13 per square foot for concrete sidewalk installation. This ballpark figure already accounts for material costs and labor. Your actual price will depend on your sidewalk’s size, the thickness of the concrete slab, and the type of finish. 

If you want a standard design, your sidewalk might fall below or above the typical range. However, concrete sidewalks with stamped patterns and intricate designs are usually more expensive. Consider hiring a professional contractor who will execute the project according to your budget requirements.

Factors That Affect Project Cost

Aside from the concrete sidewalk’s size and thickness, here are the other factors that may impact the bill:

Thickness

Your concrete sidewalk should be thicker if there’s heavy foot traffic in your home or commercial property. Concrete sidewalks should be at least 4 inches in thickness. When your concrete sidewalk is thicker than the standard, it requires more concrete and structural reinforcements. Keep in mind that the thicker the sidewalk, the higher the cost of extra materials and labor. 

Shape

A straight-edged concrete sidewalk is the easiest one to install. The shape matters a lot because multiple curves and angles require more effort. As a result, your contractor may charge higher labor costs. 

Type of Finish

There are different types of concrete finishes available, but the most popular ones are broom, polished, stamped, and stained concrete finishes. Adding finishes to your sidewalk helps improve the appearance of the surface. Moreover, concrete finishes add texture and slip resistance that would make the sidewalk safer for pedestrians. The cost of each concrete finish may vary depending on the complexity of the design.

Broom and trowel finishes are the most basic and cheapest finish types for sidewalks and walkways. People who like minimalist designs choose these concrete finishes. On the other hand, stamped concrete is the most expensive type. This decorative concrete finish can mimic the appearance of pavers, cobblestones, brick, and more. Stamped concrete costs anywhere from $8 to $25 per square foot. 

Land Preparation

Preparing the ground before pouring concrete is additional work for your contractor. The condition of the site will significantly affect how they will charge you. For example, if the ground is rocky and bumpy, excavation is required to flatten the area. Grading might be necessary if the surface is not level. Aside from this, the soil needs to be compacted and drained properly to ensure the longevity of the sidewalk. 

The following list shows the additional costs for land preparation:

• Concrete Removal and Disposal: $3 to $8 per square foot
• Excavation: $5 to $12 per square foot
• Concrete Leveling: $0.40 to $2.00 per square foot
• Grading: $3 to $8 per square foot

These extra steps will increase the overall cost of your concrete project. When you skip ground prep, you won’t get the best results for your concrete sidewalk. Always take your time to prepare the subsurface to avoid risks of defects and concrete failures. 

Reinforcements

While adding reinforcements can increase the cost, this offers a lot of benefits like increasing the concrete’s strength and safety. A rebar or wire mesh can be added to your concrete sidewalk to avoid premature cracking. Reinforced concrete surfaces often require fewer repairs and maintenance. 

Conclusion 

Concrete sidewalks are a great addition to your property in terms of functionality and appearance. If you’re looking for a reliable concrete contractor, turn to Midstate Concrete. Our services include walkway installation, driveway paving, mudjacking, and concrete repair. We can provide quotes to help you make decisions regarding your concrete project. With the quality of our work, you are surely getting a fair price. 

For questions and concerns, give us a call today!