Residential Driveway Excavation Cost Guide

When planning a driveway construction project, it’s important to consider the driveway excavation cost because they form a significant portion of the overall expenses. 

There are several options that you can choose from for your new driveway, and we have made it easier for you to understand their corresponding costs. 

Residential Driveway Excavation Cost Guide 2023

Average Driveway Excavation Cost 

Before we dig into the details, we’ll first look into the average national driveway excavation costs that you, a homeowner, should expect to pay. 

Excavation of driveways costs around $1 to $5 per square foot and this includes removing small trees, soil, and plants on the project site.

Driveway Excavation Costs per Material

The driveway excavation cost would also depend on the materials to be used during the construction. The most common driveway materials are asphalt driveways, gravel driveways, and concrete driveways. Let’s take a closer look at the costs of getting a new driveway using these materials.

Gravel Driveway Cost

The cheapest option for a driveway is a gravel driveway. The cost of gravel is relatively low compared to other materials, and installation is usually fast and straightforward. 

• Cost: $600 to $1800 per square foot
• Labor: $30/hr
• Lifespan: Up to 100

[Related: 5 Tips In Excavating For A Gravel Driveway In Arizona]

Asphalt Driveway Cost

Asphalt driveways offer a balance between cost and durability. While the upfront cost is higher than gravel, asphalt provides a smoother and more finished appearance. 

They are also relatively easy to install, reducing labor costs. Additionally, an asphalt driveway may require less maintenance compared to gravel driveways.

• Cost: $1,800 to $4,000 
• Labor: $5 to $7 per square foot
• Lifespan: 15 to 20 years

Concrete Driveway Cost

Concrete driveway costs are typically the most expensive option, but this material offers long-term durability and aesthetic appeal. It can withstand heavy loads and harsh weather conditions. 

• Cost: $2,400-$4,800
• Labor: $1.60 to $6 per square foot
• Lifespan: 30 40 years

Factors Affecting Driveway Excavation Costs

To calculate actual project costs, you need to first obtain the area to be excavated per cubic yard or square foot.

Simply multiply the area of the driveway by the excavation cost per square foot or cubic yard.

If you’re wondering why excavation costs are high, here are some common reasons behind it:

• Labor Costs: Excavation work requires skilled laborers who are experienced in operating heavy machinery, digging, and site preparation. 

• Equipment and Machinery: Excavation requires specialized equipment, such as excavators, bulldozers, and dump trucks. Equipment rental costs, fuel, and maintenance expenses contribute to the overall excavation cost.

• Site Conditions: If the site has difficult access, uneven terrain, or underlying rock formations, additional time and effort may be required to complete the excavation, resulting in increased costs.

• Waste Disposal: Excavation involves removing soil and debris from the site. Proper disposal of excavated material may require additional expenses, such as transportation and fees at waste disposal facilities.

• Permits and Regulations: Depending on your location, obtaining permits and complying with local regulations for excavation work may involve administrative costs.

[Related: How Much Does It Cost To Build A Driveway With Excavation?]

How Deep Should You Excavate for a Driveway?

In general, a driveway excavation depth ranges from 6 to 8 inches. The depth of excavation for a driveway depends on several factors, including the following:

• Type of soil
• The intended use of the driveway
• Requirements of local building codes. 

Work With Excavation Pros Today!

Having a beautiful and durable driveway can make your home stand out too. We can help you achieve that through our professional excavation and grading experts in Specialty Grading. 

We can give you a detailed estimate of your new project. Our team is committed to giving you the workmanship that you highly expect from us. 

If you’re located in Northern Arizona, we are your holy grail for your new driveway project! Call us today!