How Much Does Concrete Curbing Cost
When planning any landscaping or hardscaping project, understanding how much concrete curbing costs is an essential part of budgeting. Concrete curbing is a popular choice for property owners who want to enhance their outdoor space with a clean, professional border around gardens, lawns, or driveways. Unlike temporary edging materials like plastic or wood, concrete curbing offers durability, curb appeal, and long-term cost-effectiveness. However, prices can vary significantly depending on several factors, including location, materials, style, and labor rates.
What Is Concrete Curbing?
Concrete curbing is a continuous concrete border that is typically installed along the edges of gardens, pathways, or driveways. It serves both decorative and functional purposes, helping to keep soil, mulch, or gravel contained, and preventing grass from spreading. Many homeowners choose it for its longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.
Types of Concrete Curbing
There are several types of concrete curbing to choose from, and the type you select will influence the total cost:
- Extruded Concrete Curbing: Installed using a specialized machine that shapes the concrete as it’s poured. Ideal for continuous borders.
- Poured-in-Place Concrete Curbing: Requires formwork and is poured manually. Suitable for custom shapes or styles.
- Precast Concrete Curbing: Manufactured off-site and delivered in segments. Easier to install but limited in style variety.
Average Cost of Concrete Curbing
The cost of concrete curbing is usually calculated per linear foot. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between$5 to $15 per linear footfor basic curbing. More decorative styles or complex installations can increase the price to $20 or more per foot.
Breakdown of Costs
Here is a typical breakdown of the cost components:
- Materials: $2 to $6 per linear foot
- Labor: $3 to $9 per linear foot
- Customization (color, texture, stamping): Additional $2 to $5 per foot
- Excavation or site prep: $0.50 to $2 per foot (if needed)
National Cost Range
Depending on where you live, the cost of concrete curbing may differ:
- Urban areas: Higher labor costs may drive prices to the $12$20 per foot range.
- Rural areas: Lower demand and overhead can bring costs closer to $5$10 per foot.
Factors That Affect the Price
Several factors can influence how much you’ll pay for concrete curbing:
1. Length of the Border
The more linear footage you need, the higher your total cost. However, some contractors may offer a lower rate per foot for larger projects due to economies of scale.
2. Design Complexity
Simple, straight curbing is more affordable to install. Curves, sharp angles, and unique shapes may require extra labor and materials, increasing your price.
3. Decorative Features
If you want a custom color, stamped pattern, or textured finish, expect to pay more. These enhancements improve aesthetics but also require more skill and time to apply.
4. Ground Preparation
If the installation site is uneven, rocky, or not properly prepared, contractors may charge extra for excavation or leveling. Removing existing borders can also add to the cost.
5. Access and Equipment
Areas with limited access may require smaller equipment or manual labor, which can be more time-consuming and costly. Easy access can help reduce overall expenses.
Cost Comparison with Other Edging Materials
While concrete curbing may seem expensive upfront, it’s important to compare its longevity and durability with other edging materials:
- Plastic edging: $1$3 per linear foot, but lasts only a few years
- Wood edging: $2$4 per linear foot, subject to rot and decay
- Metal edging: $3$6 per linear foot, prone to rust over time
- Concrete curbing: $5$15 per linear foot, lasts for decades with minimal maintenance
Maintenance and Longevity
One of the advantages of concrete curbing is its minimal maintenance. Once installed, it requires little upkeep aside from occasional cleaning. If sealed properly, it can resist staining and cracking. Under normal conditions, concrete curbing can last 20 to 30 years or more, making it a cost-effective long-term investment.
DIY vs. Professional Installation
For those with construction experience, it is possible to install concrete curbing as a DIY project. However, it requires equipment like a curb machine, mixer, and proper tools. Most homeowners opt to hire professionals to ensure proper leveling, finishing, and long-term performance.
DIY Cost Estimate
If you attempt to install it yourself, here’s what you might spend:
- Rental of curb machine: $60$150 per day
- Concrete mix: $3$5 per bag
- Coloring or stamping kits: $20$100
- Total DIY cost: Approximately $3$8 per linear foot (excluding labor)
Professional Installation Benefits
- Higher quality finish
- Faster installation
- Warranties or guarantees
- Knowledge of soil, drainage, and local conditions
Tips to Save on Concrete Curbing
If you’re trying to manage your landscaping budget, here are some tips to reduce the cost of concrete curbing:
- Get multiple quotes from local contractors
- Schedule during off-peak seasons for better pricing
- Opt for simpler designs to reduce labor time
- Combine curbing projects with other landscaping work
Concrete curbing is a valuable investment for enhancing the beauty and functionality of your outdoor spaces. While the average cost ranges from $5 to $15 per linear foot, various factors can affect your total price, including style, materials, and labor. By understanding these details and planning carefully, homeowners can choose the right solution for their needs and budget. Whether you decide to DIY or hire a professional, concrete curbing offers long-lasting results that can increase your property’s curb appeal and structure.