Driveways Uddingston

S&D provide a full driveway supply and installation service to customers in Uddingston.

Are you planning a driveway?

What all driveways need to take into account…

There are many factors that make a perfect driveway at a property but, in all cases, there is one factor that is a consideration in all driveway plans: drainage.

And, with one eye on the environment, especially localised flooding, drainage of all properties of rainwater is a hot topic.

The double-edged sword

On one hand, you do not want rainwater sitting on top of the driveway; not only does this cause structural problems over time, but in cold winter weather, it can turn driveways at Uddingston properties into skating rinks, not something many of us want first thing in the morning.

But, on the other hand, the days of allowing rainwater to just run-off into the drains and sewers are also now over. As heavy rain falls, the drains cannot cope and localised, temporary flooding ensues – the cost to homeowners is dear in terms of both home insurance costs, and sentimental value too.

Drainage: what you need to know

• Driveways at Uddingston properties should never be completely flat – so hide that spirit level because you are not aiming for flat perfection! There are two gradients that need to be considered and both are barely noticeable; the endfall is the length of the driveway and the crossfall represents the gradient across the width of the drive. Having a higher crown in the centre of the driveway, is a perfect way of encouraging run-off but again, this is done so that it is barely noticeable.
• Drainage pipes – but, some driveways are simply too big or too long to rely on ‘natural’ drainage and some volumes of water will need help to be removed from this part of the property. However, point the pipes into the main drainage system is not the answer. You may need to find a part of your property that could handle these higher concentration and volume of water therefore it is essential if you are thinking of drainage pipes that you get professional help and advice.
• Porous surface – The range of materials for driveways are ever growing that, for the uninitiated, it can seem a daunting task. However, materials can be split into two categories: porous and non-porous. Most homeowners are now opting for porous materials as this allows for a much freer and environmentally friendly material.
• Under driveway drainage – if your budget allows, you can also opt for a sophisticated under driveway drainage option. There are many different ways of doing this so before you dig a tunnel, assuming this will do the job, you will need to bear in mind the erosive nature of water over time. Hence, this kind of drainage system is probably best left to the professionals!

Driveways are valuable piece of outdoor space; you need and want it to last the test of time.

For FREE information and advice about driveway installation, contact S&D TODAY!