Three spec checks that separate fair driveway quotes from costly mistakes
Quote red flags by spec
| Spec | What to find | Red flag range |
|---|---|---|
| Price per sqft | $4–$10 (broom finish) | Under $3 or over $12 |
| Concrete strength | 4,000 PSI minimum | Anything lower |
| Base prep depth | 4 inches minimum | Under 3 inches |
Why these three matter
Contractors price 50+ driveways a year. You're pricing one. A quote that skips base depth specs or lists 3,000 PSI concrete saves the contractor $800–$1,200 upfront-then costs you $2,000–$5,000 in cracking, settling, and spalling within 3–5 years. On a 1,200 sqft driveway, that's a $3,000 swing. Your quote should list all three specs in writing. If it doesn't, ask for a revision in email before you commit.
What to do right now
- Pull the quote. Check the itemized breakdown for $/sqft, PSI, and base depth language.
- Compare to 2–3 other quotes using the same three specs-not price alone.
- Ask in writing: 'Can you confirm the concrete strength and base depth on this quote?' If they hesitate, that's a signal.
- Get the answer in email, not a phone call. You'll need it if something fails.
Most homeowners don't know which concrete specs actually matter until something cracks-and by then, proving what went wrong becomes a 50/50 guess between you and the contractor.
one-click price evaluation
Check if your quote is fair - before you sign.
- Real $/sqft ranges for your project type and region
- PSI, thickness & base depth benchmarks to check the spec
- One-page negotiation reference card
How it works
- Pull up your quote
- Check it against the regional data and spec benchmarks
- See exactly where you're overpaying
Done in 30 seconds.