If you want to upgrade your outdoor area, then installing a new concrete patio is a great way to do it! You’ll have a super strong, versatile concrete pad that you can customize to match your home and vibe. How much would it cost to install a new concrete patio though?
Well the cost depends on a couple of different factors like the overall size, what kind of finish you want, if you’re doing it yourself versus hiring a professional, and if you need any site preparation done. We’ll cover each of these in more detail inside of this guide to help you maximize your budget for your new patio.
Average Cost of a Concrete Patio
The cost of installing a concrete patio typically falls between $1,500 and $5,000, with a national average of around $2,800 to $3,500. Now the price per square foot ranges from $4 to $30, which is a pretty big range that’s totally dependent on things like design, finish, and additional customizations.
Factors Influencing the Cost of a Concrete Patio
1. Size of the Patio
The main pricing factor is the size of the patio that you want. Obviously if you want a larger patio you’re going to be using more materials and you’ll need more labor to get the job done which is going to increase your overall cost. If you’re thinking about a smaller patio under 150 sq. ft. the total price will be on the lower end, but if you’ve got a patio around 400 sq. ft. or larger you can expect it to cost far more.
2. Thickness of the Concrete
Typically for a standard concrete patio we pour it 4 inches thick, but if you wanted to increase the thickness to 6 inches to add some extra strength that’s going to raise the cost. The extra material that you’ll need can add on an extra $2 to $4 per square foot.
3. Concrete Finish Options
The finish you choose for your concrete patio is going to drastically impact the final cost. Here are some of the most common finish options.
- Basic Broom Finish ($4 – $8 per sq. ft.) – A simple, cost-effective option with slight texture for slip resistance.
- Exposed Aggregate ($6 – $12 per sq. ft.) – A decorative finish that reveals pebbles or stones in the concrete.
- Stained Concrete ($7 – $14 per sq. ft.) – Adds color and a polished appearance.
- Stamped Concrete ($10 – $30 per sq. ft.) – Mimics the look of stone, brick, or wood and provides a high-end look.
4. Site Preparation
Lets say your backyard looks like the perfect Colorado sledding hill. That’s great for some winter time fun but bad for concrete. If you know the area where you want your patio to go needs a lot of work to get it leveled out and graded just right so you don’t get any water accumulation in the wrong spots, it can add anywhere from $500 to $2,000 to the total cost.
5. Labor Costs
Labor costs vary by region but usually range from $18 to $40 per hour. Depending on the complexity of the project, including excavation and decorative finishes, will also influence labor expenses whether you’re going to handle the project yourself, or hire a professional.
6. Additional Features
Here are a couple of features that some homeowners like to add onto their concrete patios that can increase the overall cost of the project:
- Borders and Patterns ($5 – $15 per sq. ft.)
- Built-in Seating or Fire Pits ($500 – $3,000+)
- Sealing for Longevity ($100 – $300)
Comparing Concrete to Other Patio Materials
Still trying to decide if concrete is the right way to go for your patio? We’ve put together a chart showing the average costs when it comes to concrete, pavers, natural stone, and wooden decking along with how durable they are and how much maintenance each material needs to stay in tip top shape.
Cost-Saving Tips for a Concrete Patio
Concrete is an incredibly affordable material to use to build your new patio but here’s a few ways to save even more money if you’re looking to build one on a budget.
1. Choose a Basic Finish
Opt for a broom finish rather than stamped or stained concrete. Those fancy colors and patterns sure do look incredible but they add on to the cost quickly!
2. Keep the Design Simple
By avoiding intricate patterns or custom shapes, you’re going to reduce your overall labor costs. For example it’s far easier and cheaper to prep and form a square concrete patio than it is a circular patio.
3. DIY Some Steps
Preparing the site yourself (like excavation) can reduce labor costs. Quick word of caution though, if you’ve never prepped a site before or don’t have a lot of experience you could create more trouble trying to do it yourself and actually end up spending more to fix it!
4. Hire During the Off-Season
Some contractors may offer discounts during fall and winter months when they don’t have as much work coming in.
Conclusion
A concrete patio is a cost-effective, durable, and customizable option for homeowners looking to upgrade their outdoor space. While prices range based on size, finish, and labor, planning ahead and choosing budget-friendly options can help you get the best value for your investment. Whether you’re looking for a simple slab or a decorative, stamped masterpiece, understanding the cost factors will help you make an informed decision.
If you’re considering installing a concrete patio here in Northern Colorado you can always request a quote and we can provide you with a fast free estimate for your new patio.
