Residential Concrete 

Below we have listed information based on the industry standards of various situations. We recommend you contact a civil engineering firm for particular details that may apply to your specific site. We also recommend that you contact the public works department for the city, county, and state in which you reside for permit requirements, and other pertinent information prior to contruction. 

Concrete Driveways
It is common for most residential concrete driveways to be a 4” concrete slab. In cases of heavier weighted vehicles, higher traffic volumes, or RV’s and trailer traffic a thicker slab may be considered. Other additives to consider for added strength are fiber mesh, wire mesh, and rebar. Traffic patterns, and weight loads also affect the sub-grade requirements to be considered. (See the Sub-Grade section below)

Sidewalks
Sidewalks are generally placed at a thickness of 4” if not located in a approach area behind the curb line. Outside of the areas behind curb lines, sidewalks do not normally see a lot of heavy traffic and will require a 2-4” base of ¾” road mix.

The area of the sidewalk that lies between the curb line and the driveway is considered the “approach” area. Governing agencies normally require 6” of concrete with a deeper sub-grade section for these areas due to the higher traffic volumes and weights.

Sub-Grade
Sub-grade requirements for concrete driveways and sidewalks vary. Sidewalks can vary from 2” to 6” of ¾” road mix. Driveways may vary from 4” of ¾” road mix up to having requirements for fabric, pit run and ¾” road mix. Consult your contractor for industry standards. You may also contact your civil engineer, or governing body for more specific site particulars and requirements.

For You to Consider...
There are times when adequate drainage cannot be achieved, due to existing elevations. As an owner, this is a reality which is sometimes unavoidable at no fault of your own or the contractor. It is an issue that was designed and installed by others before, and left to you to remedy.

Taking proactive measures, walk the site with your contractor and discuss the repairs you expect to see. Ask if your requests are reasonable, and find out what areas of concern your contractor sees. When evaluating your drainage situation, use a little common sense of your own. Ask yourself if the drainage you expect is achievable with out a major reconstruction of your parking area. The more you educate yourself in the process, the less likely you are to be dissapointed by the end result. Developing a good relationship with your contractor is a win-win for everyone involved.