Concrete Driveway Cost in 2026
A concrete driveway runs €5–€15+ per square metre installed. Here’s the price by size and finish, and how it stacks up against asphalt and pavers.
Updated July 10, 2026 · 6 min read
A concrete driveway is a decades-long investment that shapes your home’s curb appeal. The price depends on size, thickness, finish, and site prep — and a cheap job that skips the base or reinforcement will crack within a few winters.
Here’s what a concrete driveway costs in 2026 and how to get one that lasts.
2026 cost by finish
Concrete is priced per square metre installed; the finish drives much of the range:
- Standard broom-finish concrete: €5–€10 / sq ft.
- Stamped or stained decorative concrete: €10–€20 / sq ft.
- Exposed aggregate: €10–€15 / sq ft.
- Typical 2-car driveway (600 sq ft): €4,500–€9,000 standard; more for decorative.
What drives the price
Beyond finish, these move the number:
- Thickness and reinforcement — 4" is standard; 5–6" with rebar/mesh for heavy vehicles.
- Site prep — grading, removing an old driveway, and building a proper gravel base.
- Drainage and slope — needed to keep water from pooling and cracking the slab.
- Access and region — hard-to-reach sites and local labour rates.
Concrete vs. asphalt vs. pavers
A quick comparison to set expectations:
- Concrete: higher upfront, low maintenance, 25–40 year life, many finishes.
- Asphalt: cheaper upfront (€5–€5 / sq ft), needs periodic sealing, ~15–20 year life, best in cold climates.
- Pavers: highest upfront, easiest to repair (lift and replace), premium look.
What’s different in Ireland
Prices on this page are in euro and reflect typical national ranges; Dublin sits well above the rest of the country, with Cork, Galway and Limerick following. VAT applies to most building work — a reduced 13.5% rate covers many construction and repair services — so check whether a quote includes it.
Larger jobs need compliance with the Building Regulations, and extensions or material changes often require planning permission from the local council. Electrical work should be done by a registered electrical contractor (RECI/Safe Electric) who can issue a completion certificate, and gas work by a Registered Gas Installer (RGII) — that certification is part of the cost and is what your insurer and a future buyer will look for.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a concrete driveway last?
A properly installed and maintained concrete driveway lasts 25–40 years. A solid base, correct thickness, reinforcement, control joints, and good drainage are what get you there.
Why do driveways crack?
Some hairline cracking is normal as concrete cures. Bigger cracks usually trace to a poor base, no reinforcement, missing control joints, or drainage problems — reasons to hire carefully.
How long before I can drive on it?
You can usually walk on it in 24–48 hours, but wait about 7 days before driving a car on new concrete and up to 28 days for full cured strength before heavy vehicles.
Should I seal my concrete driveway?
Sealing every few years helps resist stains, water and freeze-thaw damage, extending the driveway’s life — especially in cold climates where de-icing salts are used.
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