Building an RV pad is a worthwhile investment that allows family and friends traveling by recreational vehicle to comfortably stay on your property. Whether you want basic parking or full hookups, constructing an RV pad requires materials and labor which contributes to the overall costs.
While RV pads can range greatly in price depending on included features and individual needs, it is useful to understand average estimated expenses. This helps set a reasonable budget and allows for smart planning of the project scope.
This article aims to provide a breakdown of typical costs homeowners can expect when constructing an RV pad. It examines factors influencing the price like surface type, size, amenities and labor. Helpful tips are also shared to save money where possible during the building process.
Let’s explore the amounts involved and what can be done to build an affordable yet suitable area for hosting RV guests.
Size and Material Options to Build an RV Pad
When budgeting for an RV pad, two of the main cost factors are size and material. A typical pad ranges from 12 ft x 45 ft for a Class C motorhome up to 14 ft x 60 ft or larger for a big Class A RV or fifth wheel. You’ll also need to decide if you want asphalt, concrete, gravel, pavers, or a different material.
Asphalt
Asphalt is one of the most budget-friendly options for paving an RV parking area. It provides a smooth, solid driving surface and is relatively simple to install. Asphalt prices range from $3-7 per square foot installed. A 12 x 45 ft pad would cost $1,620-$3,780.
Concrete
Concrete offers the most durable surface for frequent RV use. However, concrete pads are more expensive, with total costs ranging from $4-$10 per square foot installed. That same 12 x 45 ft pad now costs $2,160-$5,400. Stamped decorative concrete increases the price even further.
Gravel
Gravel and crushed stone provide an affordable, low-maintenance parking surface. Compacted gravel RV pads cost $1-$3 per square foot or $540-$1,620 for 12 x 45 ft. The biggest downside is gravel requires periodic grading to fill ruts and holes.
Paver Stones
Brick and natural stone pavers create an attractive look for an RV yard. Pavers range from $10-$20 per square foot fully installed, making them one of the pricier RV pad options. For example, a basic 12 x 45 ft paver pad costs $5,400-$10,800.
What Causes the Higher Cost of Concrete?
Concrete is more expensive for several reasons. First, concrete involves a complex mixing process using gravel, sand, Portland cement, and water. The ingredient costs alone run higher than plain asphalt. Second, pouring and finishing concrete pads requires skilled workers to get an attractive, functional result. Paying professional concrete contractors contributes to the higher labor costs.
Third, concrete requires building sturdy forms to hold the liquid concrete until it hardens. The lumber and work to construct custom forms add more in material and time costs. Finally, concrete takes longer to cure than asphalt or gravel. Site cleanup and post-finishing also take more time and resources.
The Size of Your Pad Matters
The size of your RV pad greatly affects the cost. Pads should be around 20-30 feet long to easily fit most RVs. Larger pads using more material will cost significantly more to build. Considering your specific RV dimensions will ensure you design a pad that is big enough but not oversized, saving money. Choosing the properly sized pad for your RV is important to get an accurate cost estimate.
What Are Permeable Pavers?
Permeable pavers are specially constructed blocks with spaces that allow water to infiltrate between them into the ground below. Most permeable pavers are made of concrete or natural stone to provide a hard, durable surface like solid pavers but remain porous. This helps water drain through instead of pooling on top.
What Do Permeable Pavers Cost?
Permeable pavers generally have a similar installation cost to solid concrete pavers, ranging from $3 to $8 per square foot. The total cost depends on the paver type, base layer materials, and size of the area. Larger permeable paver pads often cost a few hundred dollars more than solid pavers.
Permeable Pavement Cleaning Cost
Keeping permeable pavement free of debris and sediment is important for water flow. Annual cleaning usually costs $200-500 depending on the pad size. Pressure washing or vacuuming extracts built-up particles to restore permeability. This maintenance prevents water damage that could increase replacement costs later.
Advantages of Permeable Paving Systems
Permeable systems reduce runoff and flooding risk while beautifying driveways and paths. Water infiltrating the ground replenishes soil and decreases need for extra landscaping. These pads are a sustainable option that preserves natural drainage forRV pads near environmentally sensitive areas.
Site Preparation to Build an RV Pad
In addition to the parking surface itself, preparing the site for an RV pad involves groundwork, excavation, grading, fill material, and potentially tree removal. Site prep contributes $3-$7 per square foot or $1,620-$3,780 for a 12 x 45 ft pad area.
Some properties require more extensive land alterations if the terrain is sloped, uneven, or densely wooded. Clearing trees, adding drainage systems, building retaining walls, and extensive grading or fill dirt can easily double or triple the pad prep costs.
Additional Expenses to Build an RV Pad
Other items that add to the total RV pad budget include:
- Electricity and lighting: $500+ for wiring, circuits, outlets and lighting
- Water lines and sewer: $1,000+ if adding water/sewer hookups
- Pad borders: $10-$25 linear ft for lumber or landscaping borders
- Stormwater drainage: $500+ for drainage swales, dry wells, rain gardens
- Permits and professional work: $1,000+ for permits, engineering, inspections
DIY vs Professional Installation for Building An RV Pad
Homeowners with construction experience can save thousands of dollars by installing their own RV pad. However, novices may encounter issues meeting building codes or getting proper compaction. Hiring an experienced paving contractor provides peace of mind the job is done right but adds $3,000-$6,000+ to have the pros handle the entire project.
Total Costs to Build an RV Pad
Putting all the figures together, a basic 12 x 45 ft RV pad costs:
- DIY gravel pad: $3,000 – $5,000+
- Professional asphalt pad: $7,000 – $15,000+
- High-end concrete with hookups: $15,000 – $25,000+
As you scale up in size or luxury, costs rise accordingly. Ultimately, RV pads run anywhere from a few thousand dollars for a basic DIY gravel pad up to $50,000+ for an enormous, fully loaded pad area. Carefully weigh your needs and budget to strike the right balance.
Can I Install RV Hookups On My Property?
Installing RV hookups on your property allows visitors to stay comfortably. Electrical and water connections require permits costing $150-300 typically. Licensed professionals must complete installations for safety and code compliance.
RV pads generally have basic 30amp electrical outlets powered by underground wiring. Trenches require digging equipment renting for $100-200. Electricians charge $80-120 per hour for labor. Water hookups include outdoor faucets tied to a water line. Plumbers spend 2-4 hours tapping lines, running pipes, and installing backflow preventors, costing $300-600 total.
With permitting, electrical/plumbing labor, and small equipment rentals factored in, plan to spend approximately $500-1,000 minimum for a compact DIY project adding basic 30amp and water hookups. Upgrading to 50amp or adding sewer connections increases costs further. Proper hookups followed by inspections lets RVers stay without worrying about power/water access issues.
Cost to Install RV Hookups at Home
Adding RV hookups is a worthwhile investment that allows friends and family to visit in their recreational vehicles. The typical minimum costs include:
- Electrical (30amp) – $300-600 for wiring, outlets, permits
- Water – $200-400 for outdoor faucet, pipes to an existing line
- Necessary tools and equipment rental – $100-300
Optional add ons:
- 50amp upgrade – Additional $300-500
- Sewer connection – $500-1,000 installed
- Cable/internet – $100-300 depending on provider
Labor will be the biggest expense, generally $1,000-2,000 depending on the electrician/plumber hourly rates and complexity of the project. For a basic setup, budget $1,500-3,000 total. More advanced systems may run $3,000-5,000 installed. Proper setup allows safe parking plus access to necessities like power, water and sewer if needed.
Cost to Install Septic System for RV
Adding a septic system allows RVs to use on-site sewage facilities instead of needing to dump tanks off-property. Costs vary greatly depending on system size and local soil/terrain conditions. As a guide:
- Basic septic tank and drain field – $5,000-$10,000 installed
- Additional perc test if needed – $150-500
- Large RVs may require larger 1000-1500 gallon tanks – $3,000-5,000
- Pumping chamber adds – $1,000-2,000
- Permits range from $150-400 depending on jurisdiction
- Inspections add $100-150 total
- Poor soil may increase costs for gravel, leach lines
Most basic RV septic systems suitable for occasional use fall in the $5,000-10,000 range to install. Proper maintenance prevents issues from waste backing up.
How to Build an RV Pad with All the Connections?
Building a fully-featured RV pad takes planning and work but creates an enjoyable spot for guests.
First, excavate and level the base, compacting the soil. Lay gravel or concrete for the surface.
Run underground electrical lines from the main panel to a outdoor outlet box. Add a water hookup nearby with backflow prevention.
Install a sewer clean-out pipe running to the septic/sewer system.
Add outdoor shower or utility sink if desired.
Have inspections done before finalizing.
Then relax knowing visitors can plug in, dump tanks, and enjoy full hookups without relying on off-site facilities. Proper construction of all connections creates a one-stop location for any RV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does an RV pad add value to your home?
Yes, an RV pad can add value to your home by providing extra utility and convenience for RV owners.
How much does it cost to build an RV hookup?
The cost to build an RV hookup can vary, but it typically ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on factors like location and required amenities.
How much does a concrete RV pad cost?
The cost of a concrete RV pad varies based on size and location, but on average, it can range from a few thousand to several thousand dollars.
How big should an RV pad be?
The size of an RV pad depends on the size of the RV. A standard recommendation is a pad that is at least 12 feet wide and long enough to accommodate the length of your RV with additional space for comfort and accessibility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while building an RV pad requires investing in materials and labor costs, it provides the valuable benefit of accommodating RV guests comfortably on your property. This article provided an overview of average total costs ranging from $1,000 for a basic gravel pad to over $10,000 for a fully installed luxury space. Following tips like partial DIY work, reuse of existing items, and competitive quotes can help reduce expenses. Proper planning from the start using your RV’s dimensions and needs ensures the pad size and features fit within your budget. A quality built pad adds enjoyment for visitors and value to the home.
