Plan your driveway and walkways
for good access and good looks.

About this Project

Walkways and driveways should be both practical and good-looking. Begin your designing process by determining the natural paths people take to doors and any high-use areas. Avoid building a walk that will be bypassed in favor of walking on the lawn. Concrete is not a beautiful material, so use it as a frame to outline your lot. Add variety by combining other paving materials with concrete.

Once you have a general plan, visit your building department to find out about the zoning regulations and building codes governing your project. Codes typically dictate the dimensions and type of concrete you must use for footings and slabs. They tell you how much and what type of metal reinforcement to use and if you need a sand or gravel base under the material. Building codes also spell out setbacks-how close to your property line you may build. Once your plans are approved, you can get a building permit. Plan the work schedule so you will be ready for each inspection.

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