The general rule of thumb is that driveways should have a slight slope to allow water to drain away from the surface. However, when the slope is too steep, the driveway can easily become dangerous and slippery in bad weather.
Experts in the industry recommend that the slope should be no more than 15%. If your home is on a hill, one way to reduce the incline is to add curves to the driveway. Fixing a slope is a challenging project. And in terms of theĀ sloping driveway surface optionsĀ available, there are some common choices, but most of them come with their own set of problems and pitfalls.
We will look at some of the challenges posed by a sloped driveway, and what can be done to prevent them. Of course, we have to offer you a solution that can meet all the standards, counteract all the challenges, and provide a long-lasting finish….
Challenges of Sloping Driveways
Reversing is a challenge
Driving backwards is never easy. But on a sloped driveway, it can get even more challenging. When you have a steep and sloping driveway, the potential for a disaster increases; especially in Winter, when icy and rainy weather puts even more stress on your brakes.
Sloped driveways reduce your manoeuvrability, making it important to have surface that will be able to withstand wear and tear long-term.
Pedestrians at risk
Vehicles are not the only ones having problems on a sloped surface. Pedestrians are also at risk of slipping and skidding, because they are faced with limited traction. Sloped driveways do not provide your vehicle with sufficient grip, consequently putting unnecessary strain on your brakes as a result.
Drainage issues
One of the biggest problems with sloped driveways is drainage. It is now mandatory that any driveway is SUDsĀ compliant. The Environment Agency has raised the standards bar in order to prevent floods. A steep driveway will essentially deflect water from your entrance.
However, water will accumulate at the bottom of the incline, unless you have a surface material that is permeable. We will discuss the sloping driveway surface options that are permeable later on.
Water accumulates not only at the incline, but also on the sides of the roadway. This leads to a waterlogged landscape, plagued by puddles.
Reselling
Anyone who has ever tried to resale a home with sloped driveway, knows the challenges. Buyers drive by, and then they usually say the driveway is too steep. Now, while you cannot do something about the incline, you can make the driveway look much more beautiful.