Concrete Slab Cost per Square Foot

Concrete Slab Cost per Square Foot: Complete Pricing Guide

Concrete slab costs vary dramatically based on the type of project, site conditions, and finishes. Understanding the different cost ranges helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises. This guide breaks down costs for every type of concrete slab project.

Simple Slab on Grade (Example Pricing)

Disclaimer: These are example price ranges for reference. Actual costs vary significantly based on location, site conditions, materials, and project specifics.

Basic 4-inch slab: Approximately $6-$10+ per square foot

This includes:

Site preparation (minimal)
Gravel base (4-6 inches)
Standard concrete (3000-4000 PSI)
Basic reinforcement (wire mesh)
Standard broom finish
Basic forms

Best for: Shed foundations, simple patios, basic garage floors, utility pads

Example: A 200-square-foot shed foundation might cost approximately $1,200-$2,000+. Actual costs vary.

Removal and Replacement (Example Pricing)

Removal and replacement: Approximately $12-$18+ per square foot

This includes:

Demolition of existing concrete
Hauling and disposal
Site preparation
New gravel base
New concrete installation
Finishing and cleanup

Why it costs more: Demolition and disposal add significant cost. Hauling away old concrete typically costs approximately $100-$200+ per load, and most projects require multiple loads.

Example: A 400-square-foot driveway replacement might cost approximately $4,800-$7,200+. Actual costs vary significantly.

Stamped/Decorative Concrete (Example Pricing)

Stamped or decorative finishes: Approximately $16-$24+ per square foot

This includes:

All base slab costs
Stamping process and materials
Coloring (integral or release agents)
Multiple seal coats
Specialized finishing

Why it costs more: Stamping requires skilled labor, specialized tools, and additional materials. The process is more time-consuming and requires more expertise.

Example: A 300-square-foot stamped patio might cost approximately $4,800-$7,200+. Actual costs vary.

Factors That Affect Cost

Site Conditions

Easy access, level ground: Base pricing applies

Difficult access, slopes, poor soil: Add approximately 20-40%+

Rock or difficult excavation: Add approximately $2-$4+ per square foot

Thickness

4 inches (standard): Base pricing

6 inches (heavy-duty): Add approximately 30-50%+

8+ inches (structural): Add approximately 50-100%+

Reinforcement

Wire mesh (standard): Included in base price

Rebar grid: Add approximately $1-$2+ per square foot

Post-tensioning: Add approximately $3-$5+ per square foot

Finishes

Broom finish (standard): Included

Exposed aggregate: Add approximately $2-$4+ per square foot

Stamped: Add approximately $8-$12+ per square foot

Polished: Add approximately $5-$10+ per square foot

Cost Breakdown by Project Type (Example Only)

Disclaimer: These are example scenarios. Actual costs vary based on many factors.

Shed Foundation (10x12 feet, 120 sqft)

Simple slab: approximately $720-$1,200+
With removal: approximately $1,440-$2,160+
Actual costs vary

Patio (12x16 feet, 192 sqft)

Basic: approximately $1,152-$1,920+
Stamped: approximately $3,072-$4,608+
Actual costs vary

Driveway (20x20 feet, 400 sqft)

Basic replacement: approximately $4,800-$7,200+
Stamped: approximately $6,400-$9,600+
Actual costs vary

Garage Floor (24x24 feet, 576 sqft)

Basic: approximately $3,456-$5,760+
With reinforcement: approximately $4,032-$6,912+
Actual costs vary

Hidden Costs to Consider

Permits: Approximately $100-$500+ depending on location and project size

Inspections: Typically included in permit cost

Grading/landscaping: Approximately $500-$2,000+ if significant work needed

Drainage: Approximately $200-$1,000+ if drainage improvements needed

Access issues: Additional costs if equipment can't access easily

How to Get Accurate Pricing

To get accurate pricing for your specific project:

Get multiple quotes: Compare 3-5 contractors
Provide detailed information: Site conditions, access, desired finishes
Ask for itemized breakdowns: Understand what's included
Clarify site conditions: Any known issues that might affect cost
Get everything in writing: Written estimates protect both parties

The Bottom Line

Concrete slab costs range from approximately $6-$10+ per square foot for simple slabs to approximately $20+ per square foot for premium decorative finishes. Removal and replacement adds approximately 50-100%+ to the cost.

The key to accurate budgeting is understanding what's included in each price range and what additional costs might apply to your specific project. Site conditions, access, thickness, reinforcement, and finishes all affect the final cost.

Always get written estimates for your specific project. These example ranges are for reference only—your actual costs will depend on your unique situation.

Ready to get an accurate quote? Contact Local Concrete Contractor for a free estimate. We'll assess your specific project and provide detailed pricing.