5 practical considerations when installing a new driveway
These expert design considerations will help you get the best result when installing a new driveway.
These expert design tips go beyond the basics of installing a new driveway, ensuring the approach to your home functions perfectly.
This home renovation by XUL Architecture has a simple gravel driveway to fits its classic style. Photo: Matt Clayton
The Grand Designs magazine team spoke to Trevor Knight, head of technical operations at Marshalls, about the regulations and considerations that your contractor or designer should be incorporating into the design of your new driveway.
Turning circles
It is not advisable to reverse onto a public highway from a driveway. Plan a drive that is wide enough to accommodate reversing into it from the road. A turning circle or small reversing bay makes life much easier.
Planting plan
A good designer or contractor will advise on planting trees and shrubs that won’t send roots into the driveway, to avoid pushing up the surface. Ensure existing tree roots, water pipes or cables will not be damaged during the build.
Photo: Stonemarket
Light it up
Consider driveway lights that burst into life as you drive past them. Lighting can also be built into the driveway, emulating blocks. You’ll need permission for a ‘crossover’, for access across the pavement from the road.
