How Much Does It Cost To Install A Cement Patio?

Cement patio installation costs

The cost to install a concrete patio varies depending on several factors, most notably the size. Of course, larger patios require more materials and labor, so you'll pay a higher price. Adding other components like unique textures, colors, and special designs will also increase the cost. It will also cost more if your backyard needs to be graded before the patio can be installed. If you already have an existing patio, prepare to pay a much higher cost to have the contractor remove and dispose of it before installation of your new patio begins.

Your location

Where you live may impact how much cement for the patio will cost you. Those living in urban areas can expect to pay more due to the higher costs of living and higher labor rates typical in bigger cities. If you live in a rural area, your contractor may charge you more for travel fees or for obtaining materials that may be difficult to find. Ensure you get several quotes from contractors near you to determine which offers the best price. Use a concrete patio cost calculator to help you get a better idea of what you should expect to pay before you get the quotes.

Patio shape and size

The cost per square foot concrete patio averages between $3 and $6, but that's typically only if your new patio is going to be designed in a traditional square or rectangular shape. Most traditionally shaped patios without any additional colors or customization are the easiest to build. Adding special design elements or creating a unique shape will cause your final cost to be higher. Curved patios add to the price since it's more complex and labor-intensive to form and pour concrete in round shapes than straight lines.

Design

Most patios are simple concrete slabs that are added directly to the backyard. However, if you want to add a second-level deck or build a pergola over the patio, it will cost you much more. The contractor must ensure that the patio is durable and strong enough to handle the extra weight. This equates to additional materials and labor, which will increase your bottom line. Patios built around an inground swimming pool must meet specific requirements to ensure that there are no gaps or improper leveling. Extra features like fountains, walls, and concrete benches will also add to your final price. Make sure you talk to your local contractor to get an accurate estimate if you want additional features. Plan to pay a minimum of $15 extra per square foot for any of these special designs.

Permits, labor, and access

In terms of labor, the cementing backyard cost is anywhere from $30 to $50 per hour, which equals $2 to $8 per square foot. Professional concrete contractors have the tools and special skills required to add a quality concrete patio. You may need a permit to install a new cement patio, depending on your location, adding another $150-$300 to the final price. Most patios only require small concrete mixers, so access isn't usually an issue. Make sure your contractor has a gap of at least eight feet wide to bring their truck to the back. The contractor must wheel the concrete in batches or pipe it to the backyard if they don't have access. On average, plan to pay another $25 per square foot if your concrete needs to be wheeled or piped to the backyard.

Grading, excavation, and demolition

If your backyard isn't level, it will cost more to have the site graded. This process requires heavy equipment and more labor, which means your cost will be higher. It's important to make sure that the ground is prepped correctly to prevent drainage issues. If you have an existing patio that needs to be demolished first, prepare to pay more for the demo and removal costs. It's best to have a new concrete patio installed during the construction of a new home, since it's easier for the contractor to prep the site and complete the job without additional challenges.

Materials

Concrete is one of the least expensive materials available, and you could spend as little as $900 for a simple 10' x 10' patio. This is actually cheaper than a standard wooden deck, which is another popular option for homeowners who want a nice outdoor space. Paver stones are another popular patio material but they're much more costly than concrete. Ask your contractor about stamping the concrete if you like the idea of having a stone patio but don't want to pay the high price.

Cement patio costs per square foot

The size of your new cement patio will significantly impact the total cost. Most contractors charge from $4.40 to $16 per square foot for the installation, but it largely depends on the shape and finish of the patio. Remember that larger patios will cost you more for both labor and material. A 400-square-foot concrete patio costs approximately four times more labor and materials than a 100-square-foot patio. 

Below, you’ll find some average cement patio cost estimates. These average costs include the materials and labor required to install a new concrete patio. They don’t include land preparation (grading), re-sloping the backyard, or adding any colors and high-end finishes or stamping.

Cement Patio Installation Cost Factors

Installing a cement patio requires knowing how to work with the material and use the necessary tools to complete the job. You can attempt to install a new concrete patio DIY, but it’s best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done correctly. Here are the main steps included when a new cement patio is installed. The exact steps will vary depending on a wide range of factors, including the size, required grading, and special features or details that might be added.

1. Spray paint or strings and stakes are used to mark the area of the patio, including its size and shape. The area should be marked approximately 18 inches longer and wider than the size of the patio to make room for the concrete forms.
2. The contractor will use a shovel or excavator to dig up the sod and topsoil where the patio will go. The depth of excavation is typically between six and eight inches below the soil.
3. Special forms made of lumber are placed around the outer edges of the patio to create the shape and size. The contractor will ensure that everything is square, straight, and level before pouring any cement.
4. Crushed stone is poured into the bottom of the excavated area. This allows for water drainage and creates a solid base for the new patio so that it doesn’t shift or sink into the soil over time. The depth of the crushed stone is determined by the thickness of the actual concrete.
5. Steel mesh or rebar should be added to create reinforcement. This should be placed on the bottom of the form, then lifted up during the pour so that it remains approximately two inches above the bottom of the patio.
6. The contractor will determine how much concrete needs to be used. This is typically calculated by multiplying the thickness times the width and length of the patio in feet, then dividing by 27 to get the total concrete volume needed in cubic yards.
7. The concrete is mixed with water using a cement mixer to create a uniform consistency. When it’s wet, concrete should have a consistency similar to cake batter when it is mixed correctly. Most concrete contractors already use their own pre-made mix so it’s already ready to be poured during the installation.
8. Reinforcing fibers should be added for concrete patios to give the material additional strength to handle lots of wear and tear. Any color is also added to the wet concrete mixture before it’s poured.
9. The forms are filled with the concrete and a straight piece of wood is slowly moved over the top to create a smooth, level surface. A special trowel is used to add a slight slope around the edges of the patio.
10. While the concrete is still slightly wet, the contractor will apply a stamp if it’s requested. Stamped concrete creates the illusion of stone, brick, or wood planks on patios. The process of stamping concrete creates an attractive, textured look without the high cost associated with installing real stone, brick, or wood.
11. If you’re installing a cement patio yourself, you can gently sweep it with a stiff-bristled broom to create a slight texture. This will add a non-slip surface and more traction to your patio.
12. Once the concrete patio installation is complete, it will need to cure for at least 24 to 48 hours. Avoid walking on your new patio until it’s completely dry.