Measuring the slope
We measure the fall from the house or garage to the pavement and across the drive. A gentle slope is easy to work with. A steeper one may need the drive reshaped, a retaining edge or wall, or a change in surface. Very steep drives can be hard on cars too, so we check the change in gradient where the drive meets the road.
Surfaces that grip
- Block paving in herringbone locks together and copes with braking loads.
- Tarmac is continuous and textured, good for long or steep drives.
- Imprinted concrete with a deeper texture and anti-slip sealer.
- Resin-bound for gentle to moderate slopes.
- Gravel only on level ground.
Water
On a slope, water picks up speed. If the drive falls towards the house or garage, a channel drain across the low point is essential, connected to a soakaway or suitable outlet. If it falls towards the road, the front garden rules still apply: more than five square metres of impermeable surface draining to the road needs planning permission.
Retaining edges and walls
Where the drive is cut into a bank or built up above the garden, the ground beside it needs holding back. A low retaining edge may be enough. Taller walls need proper design and foundations. Durham's sandstone makes an attractive facing for retaining walls.
Access to the door
On a steep drive, separate steps or a gently sloping path to the front door are often safer than walking up the drive itself.
Conservation areas
Durham City's conservation area covers much of the historic centre and nearby streets. Changes to walls and front gardens there may need permission, so check with Durham County Council.