Essential Iowa Concrete Guide: Costs, Permits, and Maintenance in Des Moines, Centerville, & Carroll

Written By Tanner Hucka

Whether you’re looking to replace a cracked driveway in Des Moines, pour a new barn floor near Centerville, or get a fresh patio in Carroll, understanding how Iowa’s unique climate affects concrete is key. At HCS Concrete, we’ve spent years working with Iowa soil and seasons. Here are the top 5 questions we get from local homeowners about their concrete projects.

1. How much does a concrete driveway cost in Central Iowa?

On average, a standard concrete driveway in the Des Moines metro and surrounding areas like Carroll costs between $5 and $11 per square foot.

HCS Local Tip: In areas like Centerville where soil can be clay-heavy, we prioritize a thicker gravel sub-base to prevent your investment from shifting.

2. Do I need a permit for my project?

Permit requirements vary by city:

  • Des Moines: Generally requires a permit for any new driveway or approach to ensure it meets city drainage standards.

  • Carroll: Typically requires a building permit for any structure or slab project exceeding $1,000 in value.

  • Centerville: Most residential concrete work requires a simple permit through the City Building Department.

  • At HCS Concrete, we handle the paperwork for our clients to ensure everything is code-compliant.

3. Why is my concrete flaking (Spalling)?

This is the #1 issue in Iowa. It’s caused by the freeze-thaw cycle. Water gets into the pores of the concrete, freezes, and expands, popping the top layer off.

The Solution: We use a high-strength mix concrete and if you’re really wanting to keep your driveway great for a long time, a high-quality sealer every 2 years.

4. When is the best time to pour in Iowa?

The "sweet spot" for pouring concrete in the Des Moines and Carroll areas is between late April and October. We avoid pouring when temperatures drop below freezing at night, as this can weaken the chemical bond of the concrete.

5. Can I use salt on my new driveway this winter?

No! Especially for new concrete (under 2 years old), avoid chemical de-icers and salt. They accelerate the freeze-thaw damage.

Use sand for traction instead. It’s the best way to keep your HCS Concrete surface looking brand new.

Conclusion

Ready to upgrade your property? From the heart of Des Moines to the rural reaches of Centerville and Carroll, HCS Concrete is your partner for durable, beautiful work.

Tanner Hucka