Sub-base for driveway

nancy_c_b

Hi, we have an old tarmac driveway sloping down to our house which desperately needs replacing. We plan to have it built up so it’s level, then steps down to the house, then probably finished off with gravel. The height of the constructed driveway will be approx 1 metre at its highest above current ground level.
We have a lot of old bricks and broken concrete from old garden pathways (think 1950s local authority house). Is it worth hanging on to these to use as the sub-base for the drive? Will it save us in the long run even if it needs to be crushed?

FreeBear

If your drive has a slope to it, you'll find any gravel will slowly make its way down hill.

Certainly use the bricks and concrete as hardcore - The thicker the sub-base, the better. Just make sure it is well compacted before laying the final top surface.

fezster

Have a read of this site:

http://www.pavingexpert.com/subbase.htm

I'd avoid the old bricks etc, as compacting them sufficiently would be very difficult.

Go for proper Type 2 and Type 1 MOT.

Furts

A one metre rise is a phenomenal amount of fill, and unless carefully compacted it will be unstable. Also any loads at the sides touching boundary walls, or near your home, introduces the concept of retaining walls. Add to this steps run totally counter to the ethos of Part M of the Buildings Regulations. That means your design is considered unsuitable for all users both now, and when you sell on to other folks.

Planning is likely to come into this - here think drainage design and whatever has been agreed.

All round I am wondering if your proposals are the best option. Perhaps you want to ponder before going ahead? Over to you here.