How Much Does a Driveway or Concrete Slab Cost in Orange County | Venguard Construction

Introduction

Driveways and concrete slabs are some of the most functional — and valuable — upgrades a homeowner can make. In Orange County, where curb appeal and outdoor living are major priorities, a new driveway or concrete slab can enhance both daily convenience and long-term property value. Whether you’re replacing an aging driveway, installing a backyard patio, or pouring a slab foundation for an ADU or garage, knowing the costs upfront helps you budget wisely.

So, how much does it cost to install a driveway or concrete slab in Orange County? Let’s break it down.

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Average Driveway & Concrete Slab Costs in Orange County

The cost of a concrete driveway or slab typically ranges from $8 – $18 per square foot in Orange County, depending on thickness, finish, and site conditions.

• Standard Concrete Driveway: $8 – $15 per sq. ft. installed

• Decorative / Stamped Concrete: $12 – $25 per sq. ft. installed

• Colored Concrete Finish: +$3 – $5 per sq. ft.

• Backyard Patio / Basic Slab: $7 – $15 per sq. ft.

• ADU or Garage Foundation Slab (structural): $12 – $20 per sq. ft.

👉 For a 500 sq. ft. driveway, costs usually range from $4,000 – $9,000.

👉 For a 1,000 sq. ft. slab (common for ADUs or additions), costs can range from $12,000 – $20,000+.

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Factors That Affect Concrete Driveway & Slab Costs

1. Size & Thickness

• Standard driveways: 4” thick

• ADU/garage slabs: 6” thick with reinforcement

• Larger or thicker slabs require more concrete and labor, raising costs.

2. Soil Prep & Grading

• Removing grass, dirt, or an old driveway adds demolition costs.

• Grading and compaction are critical for stability and drainage.

3. Reinforcement

• Wire mesh: Affordable reinforcement option

• Rebar grid: Stronger, required for structural slabs and heavy loads

• Adds $1 – $3 per sq. ft. to the total cost

4. Finishes & Design

• Broom finish (standard): Most affordable

• Exposed aggregate, stamped, or colored finishes: Decorative upgrade that increases curb appeal but also adds cost

5. Permits & City Requirements

• Many Orange County cities require permits for new driveways, curb cuts, or structural slabs.

• Permit costs typically range $500 – $2,000+, depending on scope and city.

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Typical Cost Breakdown Example

Standard 500 sq. ft. Driveway (4” thick, broom finish)

• Demolition & Haul Away (old driveway): $1,000 – $2,500

• Grading & Base Prep: $1,000 – $2,000

• Concrete Pour & Finish: $2,500 – $4,000

• Reinforcement (wire mesh): $500 – $1,000

• Permits & Fees: $500 – $1,000

Total: $5,500 – $10,500

Decorative 1,000 sq. ft. Slab for ADU or Patio (6” thick, stamped finish)

• Excavation & Base Prep: $3,000 – $5,000

• Concrete Pour & Finish: $8,000 – $12,000

• Rebar Reinforcement: $2,000 – $3,500

• Stamping / Color: $3,000 – $6,000

• Permits & Fees: $1,000 – $2,000

Total: $17,000 – $28,500

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ROI: Do Driveways & Concrete Slabs Add Value?

Yes — concrete upgrades deliver strong returns:

• Curb Appeal: A new driveway can boost resale value and make a home more marketable.

• ADU / Garage Foundations: Essential for creating rental units or expansions that generate long-term income.

• Outdoor Living: Patios and slabs improve lifestyle and add usable square footage.

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Project Timeline

• Permits & Approvals: 1–3 weeks (depending on city)

• Demolition & Grading: 2–4 days

• Forming, Pouring, & Finishing: 2–5 days

• Curing: 7 days minimum before light use, 28 days for full strength

Total Project Duration: 2–4 weeks on average

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Why Choose Venguard Construction for Concrete Work

At Venguard Construction Inc., we provide professional driveway and concrete slab installation across Orange County, including Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, and surrounding cities. Our licensed team handles:

• Driveways, patios, and walkways

• Structural slabs for ADUs, garages, and additions

• Rebar reinforcement and decorative finishes

• Permits and inspections with local city departments

With factory-direct aluminum windows, doors, and pergolas, we also help homeowners pair their new concrete work with complete outdoor living upgrades.

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Conclusion

In Orange County, driveway and concrete slab installation costs range from $8 – $18 per sq. ft., or $5,500 – $30,000+ depending on size, design, and complexity. While it’s a significant investment, concrete upgrades enhance curb appeal, increase property value, and lay the foundation for long-term improvements like ADUs and outdoor living spaces.

👉 Need a new driveway or slab foundation? Contact Venguard Construction today for a free estimate.