Short answer
The cost of a concrete driveway comes down to its size, thickness, whether an old slab has to be torn out, how much base prep the site needs, the reinforcement, the finish, and how easily a mixer truck can reach it. Because every site is different, an honest price needs an in-person look. Medina Concrete quotes Des Moines driveways for free.
The seven things that set the price
| Factor | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Size | Square footage is the starting point for every quote |
| Thickness | Thicker slabs use more concrete |
| Tear-out | Breaking out and hauling away an old driveway is its own part of the job |
| Base prep | Grading and compacting the base so water drains away |
| Reinforcement | Rebar or wire grid in the slab |
| Finish | Broom finish vs. decorative stamped concrete |
| Access | How close the mixer truck can get to the forms |
Extras that change the scope
- The apron where the driveway meets the street
- Pouring the front walk at the same time
- Widening a single driveway to a double
- Steps where the walk meets a change in grade
Why a cheap quote can cost more
The parts of a driveway that cost the most to do right, base prep and reinforcement, are invisible once the concrete is poured. A low quote that skips them can look fine for a season and then crack or heave after an Iowa winter. When comparing quotes, ask each contractor what is included under the slab.
