Constructing a driveway takes a lot of planning, and it doesn’t start and end with a blueprint. Driveways need to be appropriately laid, measured, and can’t interfere with government-owned structures like sidewalks. If you’re thinking of laying a concrete driveway, consider these tips before you start. 

How to Plan Your Concrete Driveway 

1. Picking the Right Material

There are three common materials you could lay as your driveway that you can find at most hardware stores. Gravel, block paving, and concrete each have their strengths and weaknesses, but cement is recommended for multiple reasons. Concrete is durable, low cost, and low maintenance. Another alternative is using concrete as a binder for gravel, but you will need to buy more than one material, which adds more cost. 

2. Consider Size & Cost 

If you’re on a budget, measure the area that you want to pave and multiply that by the cost of the material you’re using. A specific material could be less expensive, but over a wide area, it will cost more. You also need to consider the shape of your driveway and if you want to add concrete designs or acid stainings. You could create a blueprint of what your driveway will look like before you call a contractor.

3. Designing Your Driveway Blueprint

When planning your driveway, add the following items to your blueprint.

• Straight or Curved: The shape of your driveway is probably limited unless you have a large amount of land. If you live in the city, you’ll likely stick to a straight driveway to maximize space. Curved driveways are better for farmhouses or mansions.

• Parking Space: If you’re expanding your sidewalk to accommodate more cars, you may need to make the space longer or broader. 

• Access to your Home: A walkway that accesses your front door needs to be added unless you want to walk on your grass. You should make this path more than 3 feet wide to accommodate guests.

If you want help planning your concrete driveway, or you need someone to pour your driveway, Bellis Concrete Construction in Cookeville, TN, will guide you through each step. This family-owned and operated business has served the Upper Cumberland area by delivering concrete services since 1997. They also specialize in stamped concrete and pea gravel. Call (931) 528-6240 to speak to an experienced concrete pourer, or visit them online for more information about their services.