So, you’re wondering, “What is the average concrete price per cubic yard near me?” Generally, a yard of concrete can cost anywhere from $125 to $200, but this is just a starting point. Several factors influence the final cost, making it crucial to get specific quotes for your project. This post will help you figure out exactly how much concrete will cost in your area and what impacts that price.
Are you planning a home improvement project that requires concrete? Whether you’re pouring a new patio, building a foundation, or need to repair a walkway, knowing the cost of concrete is a vital first step. The price isn’t static; it shifts based on location, type of concrete, delivery fees, and the volume you need. Let’s dive deep into how to get an accurate backyard concrete estimate and what goes into that price.
Image Source: static.concretenetwork.com
Fathoming Concrete Costs: What Influences the Price?
When you’re looking for the cost of concrete driveway or any other concrete work, several elements play a significant role. It’s not just about the raw material; it’s the whole package.
Material Composition and Mix Design
The basic ingredient in concrete is cement, but what goes into the mix significantly alters the price. Different projects demand different strengths and properties, requiring specific admixtures and aggregates.
- Cement Type: Standard Portland cement is common, but specialized cements for faster curing or higher strength will cost more.
- Aggregates: The sand and gravel used as fillers are usually straightforward, but if you need specialized aggregates for decorative finishes or enhanced durability, expect a higher price.
- Admixtures: These are chemical or mineral additives that improve concrete’s workability, strength, durability, or setting time. Common admixtures include:
- Water reducers: Allow for less water while maintaining workability, increasing strength.
- Air-entraining agents: Improve freeze-thaw resistance, crucial in colder climates.
- Accelerators/Retarders: Control the setting time.
- Coloring agents: For decorative concrete.
Each addition can add to the concrete price per cubic yard. A standard mix might be the most affordable, while a high-performance or decorative mix will naturally carry a higher price tag.
Strength and Durability Requirements
Concrete is rated by its compressive strength, measured in pounds per square inch (psi). Common residential projects might use 3000 psi concrete, while structural applications or heavy-duty areas might require 4000 psi or more.
- Higher psi = Higher cost: Stronger concrete requires more cement or specialized additives, directly impacting the ready mix concrete prices.
- Durability factors: If your project needs to withstand harsh weather, de-icing salts, or heavy traffic, you’ll need a more durable mix, which often costs more.
Distance from the Batch Plant
Ready mix concrete prices are heavily influenced by how far the batch plant is from your job site. This is directly tied to the concrete delivery cost.
- Delivery Charges: Most suppliers include a basic delivery fee within a certain radius. Beyond that, you’ll be charged per mile. This is a significant factor when calculating your backyard concrete estimate.
- Minimum Order Sizes: Batch plants often have minimum order requirements, usually around 5 cubic yards. If your project is smaller, you might still pay for the minimum amount, effectively increasing the per-yard cost.
Volume of Concrete Ordered
The concept of bulk concrete prices is real. Buying more concrete often leads to a lower per-yard cost.
- Economies of Scale: Suppliers can optimize their delivery routes and batching processes for larger orders, passing some savings on to you.
- Small Job Surcharges: Conversely, very small orders might incur extra handling fees, making the per-yard price higher.
Labor and Installation
While this post focuses on material costs, it’s crucial to remember that the residential concrete cost often includes installation labor.
- Pouring and Finishing: Skilled labor is needed to properly pour, level, and finish the concrete. This involves specialized tools and techniques.
- Site Preparation: This includes excavation, grading, and setting up forms, which adds to the overall project expense.
- Reinforcement: For many projects, especially driveways and structural elements, rebar or wire mesh is required for reinforcement, adding to material and labor costs.
Location and Local Market Conditions
The concrete price per cubic yard varies significantly from one region to another.
- Regional Material Costs: The cost of raw materials like cement, sand, and gravel can differ based on local availability and transportation costs.
- Demand: High demand in a particular area can drive prices up.
- Supplier Competition: Areas with more concrete suppliers may see more competitive pricing.
Deciphering the Cost: Breaking Down Your Concrete Quote
When you request a quote, it will usually break down like this.
The Base Material Cost
This is the cost of the concrete mix itself, calculated by the cubic yard.
- Standard Mix (e.g., 3000-3500 psi): This is your baseline price.
- Specialty Mixes (e.g., 4000 psi, fiber-reinforced, colored): These will add a premium.
Delivery Fees
This is a critical component of your overall expense.
- Base Delivery: A flat fee often included for standard delivery zones.
- Per-Mile Surcharge: Extra charges for deliveries outside the standard radius.
- Pump Truck Rental: If the concrete needs to be pumped to a specific location (e.g., a backyard with no direct access for a truck), this can add a significant cost.
Additives and Reinforcement
If your project requires special additives or reinforcement, these will be itemized.
- Admixture Costs: Each type of admixture will have its own per-yard charge.
- Rebar/Wire Mesh: Priced per pound or per sheet, depending on the type and quantity.
Minimum Order Charges
As mentioned, if your order is below the supplier’s minimum (often 5 cubic yards), you might pay for the minimum quantity regardless of how much you actually need.
Calculating Your Concrete Needs: Using a Concrete Calculator
To get an accurate estimate, you first need to determine how much concrete you need. This is where a concrete calculator comes in handy. Most concrete suppliers or home improvement websites offer these tools.
How to Use a Concrete Calculator
You’ll typically need to input the dimensions of the area you want to pour:
- Length: In feet or inches.
- Width: In feet or inches.
- Depth (or Thickness): In inches.
The calculator will then convert these measurements into cubic feet and then into cubic yards, as concrete is sold by the cubic yard.
Example Calculation:
Let’s say you want to pour a patio that is 10 feet long, 10 feet wide, and 4 inches thick.
- Convert inches to feet: 4 inches / 12 inches/foot = 0.333 feet
- Calculate volume in cubic feet: Length × Width × Depth = 10 ft × 10 ft × 0.333 ft = 33.3 cubic feet
- Convert cubic feet to cubic yards: Cubic feet / 27 cubic feet/yard = 33.3 / 27 = 1.23 cubic yards
Important Note: It’s always wise to order about 10% extra concrete. This accounts for spillage, uneven subgrades, and over-excavation, ensuring you don’t run out mid-pour. In our example, you’d round up to about 1.35 cubic yards (1.23 × 1.10) and likely order 1.5 cubic yards to meet minimums.
Average Concrete Prices Near You: A Table Guide
To give you a general idea, here’s a table of average concrete price per cubic yard ranges. Remember, these are estimates and can vary significantly based on the factors discussed.
| Concrete Mix Strength (psi) | Typical Price Per Cubic Yard (Material Only) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2500 psi | $120 – $150 | Lighter duty, may not be suitable for all structural applications. |
| 3000 psi | $125 – $160 | Common for general residential use (sidewalks, patios). |
| 3500 psi | $130 – $170 | Standard for driveways and general structural concrete. |
| 4000 psi | $140 – $180 | Higher strength, often for heavier loads or specific engineering needs. |
| 4500+ psi | $150 – $200+ | Heavy-duty applications, commercial use, specialized projects. |
Additional Costs to Factor In:
- Delivery Cost: $50 – $150+ per truck, depending on distance and volume.
- Pump Truck Rental: $200 – $500+ per use.
- Color Additives: $20 – $50+ per cubic yard.
- Reinforcement (Rebar/Mesh): Adds to material and labor costs.
- Labor (Pouring & Finishing): Highly variable, but budget $3 – $10+ per square foot depending on complexity.
Getting Local Quotes: Finding the Best Prices
To get the most accurate pricing for your specific needs, you must contact local concrete suppliers.
How to Find Local Suppliers
- Online Search: Use terms like “ready mix concrete near me,” “concrete suppliers [your city],” or “concrete delivery [your zip code].”
- Ask Contractors: If you’re working with a general contractor or a concrete contractor, they will have established relationships with reliable local suppliers.
- Local Building Supply Stores: They often have contacts or can direct you to reputable concrete providers.
What to Ask When Getting Quotes
When you call suppliers, be prepared with the following information:
- Your Project: Briefly describe what you’re using the concrete for (e.g., patio, driveway, foundation).
- Quantity Needed: Provide the cubic yardage calculated using a concrete calculator.
- Concrete Strength: Specify the required psi (e.g., 3000 psi, 4000 psi).
- Special Requirements: Mention any admixtures (color, air-entrainment, fast-set) or reinforcement needed.
- Delivery Location: Provide your full address and any specific delivery instructions (e.g., narrow access, need for pump).
- Desired Delivery Date/Time: Be flexible if possible, as this can sometimes impact availability and cost.
Example Conversation Snippet:
“Hi, I need a quote for concrete delivery for a residential project. I’m planning to pour a patio that’s approximately 10 feet by 15 feet, with a 4-inch thickness. I’ve calculated I need about 3.5 cubic yards, but I’ll be ordering 4 yards to be safe. I need a 3000 psi mix with air-entrainment for freeze-thaw resistance. My address is [Your Address], and I’m looking for delivery sometime next Tuesday. Can you provide me with the concrete price per cubic yard and any associated delivery costs?”
Specific Project Cost Considerations
Let’s look at how common projects can impact your budget.
Cost of Concrete Driveway
A new concrete driveway is a significant investment. The cost of concrete driveway typically includes the material, labor for preparation and pouring, and often reinforcement.
- Material Cost: For a typical 4-inch thick driveway, you might need 8-10 cubic yards of concrete. Using our average prices, this could range from $1,000 to $1,800 for the concrete itself.
- Delivery & Extras: Add delivery fees, potential pump costs, and charges for higher-strength mixes or color.
- Labor & Preparation: This is often the largest portion of the cost. Excavation, grading, formwork, and finishing can add another $4 to $10+ per square foot.
- Total Driveway Cost: Expect a new concrete driveway to cost anywhere from $80 to $150+ per square foot, depending on your location and the specifics of the job.
Backyard Concrete Estimate: Patios and Slabs
Pouring concrete in the backyard for a patio or a shed foundation is a common DIY or professional project.
- Material: A patio might be 10×10 feet (about 1.25 cubic yards). Ordering 1.5 cubic yards for a 4-inch thick patio would cost roughly $187 to $240 for the material.
- Delivery: If you’re under the minimum, delivery costs could be a substantial part of this smaller job.
- DIY vs. Professional: Doing it yourself can save on labor, but you need to factor in tool rentals and your time. Hiring a contractor will give you a residential concrete cost that includes their expertise and execution.
Paving Concrete Price: Sidewalks and Walkways
For sidewalks and walkways, the requirements are usually less demanding than for driveways.
- Strength: 3000 psi concrete is often sufficient.
- Thickness: Typically 4 inches.
- Volume: Sidewalks are usually narrower, so the cubic yardage needed might be less, but the per-yard price can still be influenced by delivery minimums.
- Paving Concrete Price: The cost per cubic yard will be similar to standard mixes, but the total project cost will depend on the length and width.
Tips for Saving Money on Concrete
While concrete is a durable and cost-effective material, there are ways to manage expenses.
Buy in Bulk When Possible
If your project is larger, you’ll get better bulk concrete prices. Coordinate with neighbors if you have smaller individual needs but can consolidate orders.
Choose Standard Mixes
Opt for standard concrete mixes (like 3000-3500 psi) unless your project specifically requires higher strength or special properties.
Plan Your Project Meticulously
Accurate measurements using a concrete calculator and avoiding over-ordering are key. However, don’t under-order; the cost of a second delivery can be prohibitive.
Compare Quotes from Multiple Suppliers
Always get quotes from at least three different local concrete suppliers. Prices can vary significantly.
Consider DIY for Smaller Jobs
If you’re tackling a small project like a small patio slab or a few stepping stones, and you have the physical capacity and some experience, DIY can save on labor costs. However, be realistic about the effort and equipment required.
Be Flexible with Delivery Times
Sometimes, suppliers offer discounts for off-peak delivery times or if they can fit your delivery into an existing route.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the average cost of a concrete delivery?
A1: The concrete delivery cost can range from $50 to $150 or more per truckload. This often depends on the distance from the batch plant to your job site. Some suppliers may include it in the per-yard price if you meet a minimum order quantity.
Q2: How much does concrete cost per square foot?
A2: Concrete is sold by the cubic yard. To estimate the cost per square foot, you need to know the thickness of your pour. For a 4-inch thick slab, 1 cubic yard of concrete covers approximately 81 square feet (1 cubic yard = 27 cubic feet; 4 inches = 0.333 feet; 27 / 0.333 ≈ 81 sq ft). So, if concrete is $150 per cubic yard, it’s roughly $1.85 per square foot for the material alone ($150 / 81 sq ft).
Q3: Can I order less than one cubic yard of concrete?
A3: While you can order less, most ready mix concrete prices are based on a minimum order quantity, often around 5 cubic yards. If you order less than the minimum, you will typically be charged for the minimum amount, making the per-yard cost significantly higher for small jobs. Some smaller suppliers or specialized concrete services might offer smaller batches, but they often come at a premium.
Q4: What is the difference between residential and commercial concrete pricing?
A4: Residential concrete cost is generally for smaller volumes and standard mixes, often delivered to homes. Commercial pricing is usually for larger volumes, higher strength mixes, specialized admixtures, and may involve different delivery logistics. While the per-yard price might be lower for bulk commercial orders, the overall project cost can be higher due to the scale and complexity.
Q5: How much does colored concrete cost compared to regular concrete?
A5: Adding color to concrete typically adds $20 to $50 or more per cubic yard to the concrete price per cubic yard. The cost depends on the type of pigment used and the desired color intensity.
Q6: Do I need to reinforce my concrete driveway?
A6: Yes, it is highly recommended to reinforce a concrete driveway. Reinforcement, usually in the form of wire mesh or rebar, helps to control cracking and increase the tensile strength of the concrete, making the driveway last longer and perform better under stress and temperature changes. This adds to the overall cost of concrete driveway.
Q7: What are bulk concrete prices?
A7: Bulk concrete prices refer to the reduced cost per cubic yard when ordering larger quantities of concrete. Suppliers offer discounts for larger orders because it is more efficient for them to produce and deliver. If you need more than 5-10 cubic yards, you can typically negotiate a better price.
By taking the time to calculate your needs accurately, understanding the factors that influence price, and getting quotes from several local concrete suppliers, you can confidently determine the exact concrete price per cubic yard for your project and manage your budget effectively.