A driveway apron is the section where a private driveway connects to the public roadway; it is usually the width of the driveway and about 8'-15' long (extending from the curb to the far edge of the sidewalk, or to the property line), although some decorative aprons can be 60'-70' or longer.
Typical costs:
An asphalt apron typically costs $2-$5 a square foot, or $360-$900 for a 12'x15' apron. However, there's a basic cost for bringing equipment and a crew to the site, so may be a minimum charge of $500-$1,000 or more for small projects. A stamped asphalt apron can cost $5-$12 a square foot, or $900-$2,160 for 12'x15'.
A concrete apron can cost $3-$10 or more a square foot, or $550-$1,800 for 12'x15'. With decorative elements (stamped patterns, a pigmented color, a textured finish) the cost can be $6-$25 or more a square foot, or $1,100-$4,500 or more. Some municipalities will replace a deteriorating apron for a fee.
A concrete paver apron typically costs $3-$12 a square foot for do-it-yourself materials and equipment rental, or $550-$2,160 for 12'x15'. With professional installation, the cost is typically $6-$20 or more a square foot, or $1,100-$3,600 for 12'x15'.
A professionally installed brick paver apron generally costs $10-$30 or more a square foot, or $2,000-$6,000 for 12'x15'. This is not typically do-it-yourself project, because of the labor-intensive nature of the project, and because it's crucial that the installation be done correctly.
A cobblestone apron typically costs about $1,800-$4,500 for do-it-yourself materials for an average 12'x15' apron, or $3,600-$12,600 with professional installation.
Paving contractors typically do not charge by the square foot, but instead quote their total price for a specific project.
What should be included:
The driveway apron is usually located on the public right-of-way, but the homeowner is typically responsible for maintaining the apron and any drainage pipes beneath the apron.
Local regulations, including neighborhood covenants, may require specific apron materials. For example, Las Lunas, NM[1] specifies that a driveway apron must be constructed with a minimum of 4,500 psi ready-mix concrete, 4" wide and 4" thick, installed over 4" of 0.75" gravel.
Additional costs:
Usually a permit is required to add or widen a driveway; fees are typically $50-$100 or more. For example, Lake County, FL[2] charges a $50 driveway permit fee; Los Lunas, NM[3] charges $75 for a driveway apron/curb cut permit.
Shopping for a driveway apron:
Driveway aprons are typically installed by asphalt, concrete, masonry or paving contractors, although general building or landscaping contractors make take on the task as part of a larger project, and sub out the work.
Ask friends, neighbors or local construction companies for recommendations. The Better Business Bureau lists tips for selecting an asphalt contractor[4] ; the ConcreteNetwork.com provides a searchable database of concrete contractors[5] ; the Stone Foundation provides a directory of stonemasons and contractors [6] .
Get several estimates; ask for and check references (if possible, visit a previous project, to see how the driveway looks after use); and make sure the company is properly insured and licensed.
7 Lesser-Known Discounts for the 50+ Crowd As they age, members of the Baby Boomer generation don't like to admit that they're senior citizens, but they love getting discounts. It's kind of a quandary, because some of the best deals available are reduced prices for older folks. || Posted October 21 2013
7 Ways to Stretch Your Reduced Food Budget End of the year budgets are tight for everyone, especially in this economy.It's especially hard for the millions of Americans who depend on government programs like food stamps to help make ends meet. || Posted November 11 2013
CostHelper is based in Silicon Valley and provides consumers with unbiased price information about thousands of goods and services. Our writers are experienced journalists who adhere to our strict editorial ethics policy.
CostHelper Community
UTI urgent care visit Paid: 147.00 Visit was $135. Antibiotics was $12. Waiting for four hours in the waiting room and the visit was quick... [more]
Spanish Medical Interpreter Paid: 150.00 I worked with SynShyne Services out of Monroe, NC. They were so worth the price! Professional, friendly, accurate, great attitude and always on time. I recieved an itemized report after every contact and a user friendly invoice weekly... [more]
Skin prick allergy test Paid: 573.00 Took my 9 yr. old in after an allergic reaction to eggs. Several panels for nuts, fish & top 8 allergens. Sure enough, egg came up. Got a script for epinephrine and left... [more]