Free template
Concrete estimate template
The structure of a concrete estimate that protects you on material costs, subcontractor work, and finishing disputes — and gets your deposit before the truck rolls.
Sample concrete estimate
| Item | Qty | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Demolition of existing concrete driveway (520 sq ft) | 520 | $1,040 |
| Haul-away of demo debris | 1 | $480 |
| Excavation and grading — 4" depth | 520 | $780 |
| Class II base — 4" compacted | 520 | $1,560 |
| Forming — perimeter and expansion joints (86 LF) | 86 | $430 |
| Rebar — #3 bar, 18" grid, 520 sq ft | 520 | $936 |
| Concrete — 4,000 PSI, 8.6 yards (includes 10% overage) | 9 | $1,530 |
| Broom finish and expansion joints | 520 | $780 |
| Cure and seal — Behr Concrete Sealer, 2 coats | 520 | $520 |
| Subtotal | $8,056 | |
| 40% deposit to schedule and order materials | $3,222 |
Anatomy of a concrete estimate
1. Site preparation and excavation
List excavation depth, area, and what is being removed (existing concrete, tree roots, base material). If a sub is doing the excavation, note it. Underestimating prep is the most common cause of concrete job losses.
2. Base material and compaction
List base rock type (crushed granite, class II base, gravel), depth in inches, and square footage. Note whether compaction testing is included or required by spec.
3. Forming
Forming is labor-intensive and often underpriced. List linear feet of form work and any specialty forming (curved edges, bull-nose borders). If your forms stay in place for decorative edge work, note that.
4. Reinforcement
Rebar or wire mesh, grid size, and coverage. List fiber additive if used. Code often requires rebar in certain placements — note code compliance in your estimate.
5. Concrete — mix design, PSI, and yards
Specify the mix design (4,000 PSI, fiber-reinforced, etc.) and the number of cubic yards. Price fluctuates — note your material cost basis date and that the estimate is subject to concrete pricing at the time of pour.
6. Finishing — texture and color
Broom finish is the baseline. List any decorative work — exposed aggregate, stamped pattern, color additive, or acid stain — as a separate line. These are skill-based and justify a premium.
7. Sealing and curing
Specify the sealer type, number of coats, and cure time before traffic. Include when the customer can use the area — setting this expectation prevents damage claims.
What makes a concrete estimate win the job?
Frequently asked questions
How do I price concrete per square foot?
A rough baseline for a standard residential driveway (broom finish, 4" slab) is $8–$15 per square foot installed, depending on your market and material costs. Break out concrete cost separately so customers understand why pricing fluctuates.
Should I include a concrete price escalation clause?
Yes. Add a note: 'Concrete material pricing is based on current market rates as of [date]. Estimates are valid for 30 days. Projects scheduled beyond that window will be confirmed at current material pricing.' This is standard practice.
How much deposit should a concrete contractor collect?
40–50%. Concrete, base material, and equipment rental are paid before the pour. You need the deposit to fund the materials.
What if I pour more concrete than estimated?
Add a clause: 'Concrete is ordered to the nearest quarter yard. Any overage used on-site will be invoiced at the per-yard rate stated above.' This is standard and customers accept it when it is written upfront.
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