Concrete in Raleigh, NC - free quotes from local pros

Raleigh homeowners are investing in outdoor living spaces as the Triangle continues to grow. Concrete is the foundation of most of these projects, from new driveways in Wake Forest and Holly Springs to patios in established neighborhoods like North Hills and Cameron Village. The Piedmont’s red clay soil and humid climate create conditions that demand experienced contractors who know how to deliver work that lasts.

We connect Raleigh homeowners with local concrete contractors who deliver quality results. The average concrete project in the Raleigh metro costs $3,000 to $20,000 depending on scope. Get free quotes from local pros and compare before you hire.

Concrete costs in Raleigh

Concrete pricing in the Raleigh metro runs near national averages. Strong contractor competition in the Triangle and easy access to ready-mix suppliers keep costs reasonable for homeowners.

What affects costs in Raleigh

Several factors specific to the Raleigh market influence your project price:

• Red clay soil. The Triangle sits on Piedmont red clay that expands when wet and shrinks when dry. Contractors need to over-excavate and bring in compacted gravel fill to create a stable subbase. Skipping this step is the most common cause of premature cracking and settling in the Raleigh area.
• Grading and drainage. Many Raleigh properties have gentle slopes or low areas that collect water. Proper grading is essential to direct water away from concrete surfaces and the home’s foundation. Sites that require significant grading work add to the project cost.
• Demolition. Removing and hauling away existing concrete adds $2 to $6 per square foot. Older neighborhoods like Five Points, Oakwood, and Mordecai often have aging driveways and walkways that need full replacement.
• Decorative upgrades. Stamped and colored concrete are popular in Raleigh’s newer developments. Adding decorative finishes to a standard project increases cost by 50% to 100%.

How it works

Getting concrete quotes in Raleigh is straightforward:

1. Describe your project. Tell us about the concrete work you need, the approximate size, and your timeline.
2. Get matched with local pros. We connect you with up to three concrete contractors serving the Raleigh area.
3. Compare quotes and hire. Review detailed estimates, check references, and choose the contractor that fits your budget and project.

No cost, no obligation. Compare your options on your own terms.

What to look for in a Raleigh concrete contractor

Licensing

North Carolina requires contractors performing work valued at $30,000 or more to hold an active license through the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC). Many residential concrete projects fall near or above this threshold, especially driveway replacements and foundation work.

For projects under $30,000, a state license is not required, but your contractor should carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation. The City of Raleigh requires permits for driveway installations and any work that affects public right-of-way. Confirm your contractor can pull the necessary permits in Wake County.

You can verify license status at the NCLBGC website.

Insurance

Your contractor should carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage. North Carolina law requires licensed general contractors to maintain insurance. Ask for certificates of insurance and verify they are current before work begins. This protects you from financial liability if something goes wrong on your property.

Questions to ask

Before hiring a concrete contractor in Raleigh, ask:

• Are you licensed with the NCLBGC? What is your license number?
• Do you carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation?
• How do you handle Raleigh’s red clay soil in your subbase preparation?
• What concrete mix and PSI do you use for exterior flatwork?
• Do you include control joints in your bid?
• Will you handle permits through the City of Raleigh?
• What warranty do you offer on the finished work?

Raleigh climate and concrete

Raleigh’s climate is generally favorable for concrete, but there are important factors to consider. Summers are hot and humid with frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and winters are mild with occasional freezes. This combination affects how concrete is poured, cured, and maintained.

Key considerations for Raleigh concrete projects:

• Subbase preparation. The Piedmont’s red clay is the biggest challenge for concrete in the Raleigh area. Clay holds water and swells, then cracks and shrinks during dry spells. A minimum of four inches of compacted gravel subbase is standard practice. Experienced Raleigh contractors may recommend six inches or more for driveways.
• Concrete mix. Standard 4,000 PSI concrete works well for most exterior flatwork in Raleigh. Air entrainment is less critical than in northern cities since hard freezes are infrequent, but it is still recommended for exposed surfaces that may encounter occasional ice and freeze-thaw cycles.
• Summer pours. Raleigh’s July and August heat can cause concrete to cure too quickly, leading to surface cracking. Contractors should use curing compounds, mist the surface, or schedule pours for early morning. Afternoon thunderstorms are a real risk during summer months, and experienced crews plan accordingly.
• Drainage. Raleigh receives about 46 inches of rain per year. Water that pools on or under concrete accelerates deterioration and can undermine the subbase. Proper grading and drainage are essential for any flatwork project.

Related services in Raleigh

Planning a larger outdoor project? We also connect homeowners with local contractors for:

• Insulation contractors in Raleigh
• Fencing contractors in Raleigh

Bundling concrete and fencing work during the same season can save on mobilization costs and give your property a complete outdoor upgrade. Read our patio installation guide for design ideas, compare stamped concrete vs pavers, or learn how to hire the right contractor.

Explore concrete services across North Carolina or learn more about concrete options nationwide.