If you’re thinking about removing your concrete driveway, whether to replace it, repave, or clear space for a new project, it’s a good idea to know what you’re getting into and what it’s going to cost.
Concrete driveway removal might sound like a simple task, but there’s more to it than just bringing in a jackhammer and calling it a day. Several factors affect the overall price, and being aware of them can save you time, money, and a lot of unnecessary headaches.
Here’s everything you need to know about the costs, from what influences pricing to how you can make sure you’re getting a fair deal.
What Affects Concrete Driveway Removal Costs?
While there’s no set-in-stone answer, here are a couple of factors that may influence the total price you pay.
1. Size of the Driveway
One of the biggest factors here is how big your driveway is. A smaller driveway means less work, fewer materials, and ultimately a lower price. The bigger your driveway, the more the case.
Here’s a rough breakdown for different sizes:
- Small Driveways (200-300 sq ft): $500 – $1,000
- Medium Driveways (300-600 sq ft): $1,000 – $2,000
- Large Driveways (600-1,000 sq ft): $2,000 – $4,500
2. Concrete Thickness
Concrete driveways can vary in thickness. The thicker and tougher the concrete, the more challenging it will be to remove. Concrete with rebar or wire mesh inside will require special tools and more time to get rid of, adding to the overall cost.
3. Accessibility
An important question contractors ask themselves when quoting you is how easy it is for them to access your driveway.
If your driveway is tucked away in a narrow space or on a steep incline, it might be trickier to remove. Hard-to-reach driveways or properties with limited access can lead to higher labor costs or additional equipment charges.
4. Disposal Fees
After the concrete is broken up, it needs to go somewhere, and that somewhere is typically a landfill or recycling facility.
Disposal fees can range anywhere from $150 to $500, depending on the amount of concrete and the distance to the disposal site. Recycling concrete may be an option, which can lower disposal costs slightly. But regardless, hauling away all that debris isn’t cheap, so expect it to be factored into your quote.
Average Driveway Removal Costs
Based on all the factors above, here’s what you can generally expect to pay:
- Basic Concrete Driveway Removal (per square foot): $2 – $4
- Medium-Sized Driveway (500-700 sq ft): $1,500 – $2,500
- Larger Driveway (1,000+ sq ft): $2,500 – $5,000
So, for a typical 500 sq ft driveway removal, you’re likely looking at $1,500 to $2,500, depending on the complexity of the job.
What’s Included in the Price?
Before you start going down a spiral reading the price quotes, here’s everything you’re covering in the payment:
- Labor: This is usually the biggest chunk of the cost, covering the work required to break up the concrete, haul it away, and clean up the area afterward.
- Equipment: Heavy machinery like jackhammers, skid loaders, and dump trucks may be required to get the job done. Equipment rental can add up, so it’s included in your quote.
- Disposal Fees: Depending on where you are and how much concrete needs to be removed, you’ll likely be charged a fee for hauling it to a landfill or recycling facility.
- Site Cleanup: After the concrete’s been removed, the contractor will level the ground and clean up the area, so it’s ready for the next phase.
It’s good practice to clarify with your contractor whether disposal fees and site cleanup are included in your estimate or if they’ll be charged separately.
Also Read: Top 5 Things to Consider Before Starting a Demolition Project in NYC
How Much Should You Budget for Concrete Driveway Removal?
The cost of removing a concrete driveway varies based on a lot of factors, but you can expect to pay somewhere between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on size, accessibility, and local factors like disposal fees.
Be sure to get multiple quotes, ask what’s included, and be mindful of hidden costs, though!
If you want the job done safely, efficiently, and on budget, Delta Demolition can help. Our team has the expertise, equipment, and experience to remove your concrete driveway without the headache.
Give us a call today and let’s get your driveway ready for the next step!
