Driveway Installation in High Point, NC: Cost, Timeline & What to Expect

A new concrete driveway is one of the best upgrades you can make for your home. It improves curb appeal, adds value, and provides a durable surface that can last for decades when installed correctly.

If you’re planning driveway installation High Point NC, this guide covers typical costs, project timelines, what happens during each step, and how to choose the right driveway installation High Point NC for the job.

Why Homeowners in High Point Choose Concrete Driveways

Concrete driveways are popular in High Point because they offer:

• Long-term durability

• Clean, modern appearance

• Low maintenance compared to gravel

• Better performance than asphalt in many conditions

• Strong load support for daily vehicles

With proper installation and sealing, a concrete driveway can last 25–40 years.

Average Cost of Driveway Installation in High Point, NC

The cost of a new driveway depends on size, thickness, site conditions, and the finish you choose.

Typical cost range

Most homeowners can expect:

• Standard concrete driveway: $6 – $12 per square foot

• Decorative or stamped concrete: $10 – $20+ per square foot

• Removal of old driveway: $1 – $3 per square foot (additional)

Example price estimate

A common 2-car driveway (about 600 sq ft) may cost:

• $3,600 – $7,200 for a standard finish

• $6,000 – $12,000+ for decorative concrete

These are general averages. A local quote from concrete contractors High Point NC will be more accurate based on your property.

What Affects Concrete Driveway Pricing?

Here are the biggest factors that change your final cost:

1. Driveway size and layout

Long driveways, wide turnarounds, or curved designs require more material and labor.

2. Site preparation and grading

If your driveway area needs heavy excavation, leveling, or drainage correction, costs will increase.

3. Concrete thickness

Most residential driveways are poured at:

• 4 inches (standard)

• 5–6 inches (recommended for heavier vehicles)

4. Reinforcement

Rebar or wire mesh adds strength and reduces cracking.

5. Finish type

Options include:

• Broom finish (most common and affordable)

• Smooth finish

• Exposed aggregate

• Stamped concrete

• Colored concrete

6. Drainage and slope adjustments

If water currently pools in your driveway area, contractors may need to regrade the surface or install drainage solutions.

Timeline: How Long Does Driveway Installation Take?

Most driveway projects take 2 to 5 days for installation, plus curing time.

Typical timeline breakdown

Day 1: Site prep and demolition (if needed)

• Remove old concrete or asphalt

• Grade the area

• Compact soil and install gravel base

Day 2: Forms and reinforcement

• Build wooden forms

• Install rebar or wire mesh

• Final base compaction

Day 3: Pouring and finishing

• Pour concrete

• Screed, level, and finish

• Add control joints

• Apply broom finish or decorative finish

Day 4–5: Curing and cleanup

• Begin curing process

• Remove forms

• Final cleanup and edging

How long before you can use it?

• Foot traffic: 24–48 hours

• Light vehicles: 7 days (recommended)

• Full strength: 28 days

Good contractors will explain exactly when it’s safe to drive on the new surface.

Step-by-Step: What to Expect During Installation

Here’s what happens during a professional driveway installation High Point NC project:

1. Measurement and estimate

Contractors measure the area, check drainage, and confirm the desired layout.

2. Excavation and base prep

This is one of the most important steps. A weak base leads to cracking and settling.

3. Forming the driveway

Wood forms create the driveway shape and control slab thickness.

4. Reinforcement placement

Rebar or mesh is installed to strengthen the slab and reduce shifting.

5. Concrete pouring

Concrete is poured evenly across the forms and leveled.

6. Finishing and joint cutting

Contractors apply the chosen finish and cut control joints to reduce random cracking.

7. Curing and sealing

Curing is essential for strength. Many contractors also recommend sealing the driveway once cured.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When hiring concrete contractors High Point NC, watch out for these common issues:

• Skipping base compaction

• Pouring concrete too thin

• No reinforcement used

• Poor slope leading to water pooling

• No control joints (causes random cracking)

• Rushing the curing process

A properly installed driveway should be smooth, evenly sloped, and strong enough for daily use.

How to Choose the Right Concrete Contractor

A reliable contractor should provide:

• A written quote with a clear scope of work

• A timeline and curing instructions

• Proof of insurance

• Experience with driveways in High Point

• Proper equipment for grading and compaction

• Reinforcement recommendations

Always compare at least 2–3 estimates and ask what is included.

Maintenance Tips After Installation

Once your driveway is installed, you can extend its life by:

• Avoiding heavy vehicles for the first few weeks

• Sealing the surface every 2–3 years

• Keeping edges protected from heavy loads

• Cleaning oil stains early

• Avoiding harsh de-icing salts in winter

Final Thoughts

A concrete driveway is a long-term investment, and quality installation matters just as much as the concrete itself. With proper planning, the right contractor, and good maintenance, your new driveway can look great and perform well for decades.

If you’re planning driveway installation High Point NC, make sure you work with experienced concrete contractors High Point NC who handle everything from base preparation to finishing and curing the right way.