What Is Shared Driveways?

Written by Admin and published on https://www.checkatrade.com/.

For those who are new to house hunting, coming across a property with a shared driveway can prompt a whole range of questions. In fact, it is advised that you seek whatever assistance you may need before you make a purchase as the last thing you want to do is regret your decision.

Everything you need to know about shared driveways

Most people with shared driveways go their whole lives without running into difficulties, however, for some, the practice can prove problematic. In this blog, we detail everything you need to know about shared driveways.

What is a shared driveway?

There are two main types of shared driveways in the UK. The first type is an access way, standing partly on one owner’s land and partly on an adjacent owner’s land, over which both owners enjoy a right of way. The second is where one neighbour owns the land outside another neighbour’s house. In this situation, it’s common for an agreement to be drawn up between both parties, which allows everyone to have access.

In Britain, there are a couple of reasons why shared driveways exist. The first situation is on homes built before the 1930s. During this period, many people agreed to build garages to the rear of their homes and needed to share a driveway with their neighbour to access it. These days, it’s more common for shared driveways to exist on modern housing estates where developers have had to economise on space.

Who owns a shared driveway?

Shared driveways are subject to a number of different ownership models, so it’s always best to consult the deeds of your home to find out exactly what applies to your house. It’s common for driveways to be shared if it is owned by one homeowner, but with another neighbour having a right of way over it. In these cases, it’s important for homeowners to recognise that their neighbour has a much greater right to the driveway, even if they don’t own it.

Can I park on a shared driveway?

Neither neighbour has a right to park their car on a shared driveway, as such it’s something that must be worked out privately between both parties. There’s little legal protection on this issue as whichever way you slice it, your car will either be illegally parked or blocking a right of way.

Who should maintain a shared driveway?

It’s largely expected that both homeowners will do their bit to help maintain the conditions of a shared driveway. However, it is worth noting that neither homeowner has a right to store anything in the area, such as bins. Storing of bins in this situation would equate to obstruction of the right of way.

Where does common law apply?

If you’re ever unsure about the ownership status of a shared driveway then it’s best to check your title documents. In terms of using the driveway, common law dictates that the area is used fairly between both parties. Therefore, if your neighbour is overusing the space and stopping you from accessing your driveway or garage then it’s possible to take the issue to court to seek an injunction.

Can I buy my neighbour’s stake of a shared driveway?

If your shared driveway agreement or lack thereof is becoming problematic then it is possible to extinguish the right of way on a shared driveway. This won’t be applicable in every situation, but where possible, it’s a potential solution to the issue. However, the owner who wishes to extinguish the right of way will be expected to financially compensate their neighbour for the inconvenience, loss of utility and the diminished value of their property.

Shared driveways can lead to serious disagreements between neighbours. If your property is subject to such a disagreement it’s important to check your home’s deeds to clarify exactly who owns what. From that point onwards it’s all about managing relationships. Speak to your neighbour and ensure that you’re happy with the agreement, but work with civility in mind. That way you can make sure you don’t sacrifice the neighbourhood in pursuit of a slightly better parking spot.

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Reasons to Leave Driveways to the Professionals

Written by Admin and published on https://www.growtivation.com/.

It is always tempting to try and save some cash by completing a job ourselves. After all, sometimes we can save a good few hundred pounds and that is cash that we can put towards other endeavors. On the other hand, there may be repercussions of these money-saving tactics we are considering, especially when it comes to driveways. Here are a few reasons why you should leave laying driveways to the professionals…

3 Reasons To Leave Driveway Laying to the Professionals

DIY projects always seem like a great idea before you start. You imagine the great savings to be had and looking back proudly at a job well done. Then the work starts. Corners are cut, bits are bodged and it’s only a matter of time before the cracks start appearing. Literally, in the case of driveways, especially when you didn’t use the best material for the job. Cracks aren’t the only problem with driveways though. Here are three reasons why it can best to leave laying driveways to the professionals.

Reason 1: You’ll have to dig deep

Not into your pockets necessarily but certainly in preparing the ground. An essential element to a lasting driveway is a good solid sub-base. Mini excavators may be fun at the start and working with a shovel may feel like a great form of exercise but it soon gets wearisome and boring. However, skimping on the digging buries a load of problems for later.

Digging out and preparation of the base are crucial and definitely not for the fainthearted. Not only are the professionals fit and experienced, but they also understand how crucial it is to get the correct levels and falls to ensure water runs away to the drainage point properly. Did you even know you needed a drain?

Reason 2: You’ll have to take tough decisions

Gravel driveways are the cheapest to install but can be the biggest hassle to maintain. Paved driveways look super-swish but can be labor-intensive and expensive depending on the blocks selected. Concrete and tarmac driveways often fall somewhere in the middle and are easier to maintain. While your budget is a key factor in this decision, you also need to consider the site that your driveway is on, as this may mean certain finishes are not appropriate.

So, which is the best and most practical for your property? Making the right decision can be hard but making the wrong decision can be harder still. A professional landscaper or driveway contractor will know exactly which solution is right for both your budget and your property.

Reason 3: You need to get it the right first time

Any driveway that’s not been laid properly is going to give you grief in the future. The secret is in the planning, the preparation, and the choice of the right materials throughout the project, as well as in the precision of the laying itself.

The right base is essential for a paved driveway. Making it the correct depth and using the right geotextile for the job will make it far less likely to sink into the soil (sub-grade) and create an uneven surface. Growtivation’s Drivetex geotextile fabric is designed to stabilize the ground under your driveway to minimize these problems.

Meanwhile, gravel, concrete, and tarmac driveways can develop hollows, ruts, or cracks if not laid on a proper foundation. Water penetration and poor drainage can also cause a multitude of problems. Geotextile fabrics, laid as part of the ground preparation, will not only stabilize the ground but also improve drainage and filtration. A professional landscaper will know which materials are right for your site and be able to source them easily and quickly.

These are just some of the reasons why it can be best to leave laying driveways to the professionals. And if you want to know which driveway landscaping professional to use, simply ask them if they use Growtivation’s Product That Works range – if they do, you have the best for the job.

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All About Gravel Driveways

Written by Kings Driveway and published on https://www.kingsdriveways.co.uk/.

Gravel driveways and crushed stone driveways can be seen all over the United States! They’re affordable, relatively simple to maintain and you can create unique colors and designs with different types of gravel. In snowy regions, they are much more difficult to maintain due to regular snow removal. If you’re planning on installing a gravel or crushed stone driveway and you live in a snowy region, plan on putting all of the gravel that was pushed off with the snowplow back onto your driveway every spring!

Gravel driveways can be installed in the shortest amount of time with very little impact on the use of your driveway. Gravel driveway installation should be accompanied by meticulous drainage planning and an experienced grader operator to minimize the ongoing maintenance as much as possible. Depending on the size and scope of work involved, the construction of a new crushed stone or gravel driveway can be installed by an experienced grading contractor generally over a 1 to 3 day period. Crushed stone or gravel driveway installation is relatively simple. Most of the work is done with grading equipment and front end loaders so it can be completed fairly quickly with minimal impact on your daily routine. You can also expect to drive on and use the driveway throughout the construction of a gravel driveway.

Facts About Gravel Driveways

What you need to know about Gravel Driveways

Driveways, and roads in general, have come a long way since their beginning. Dirt tracks that were once frequented by horse and carriage are now populated with cars. We look to create the most aesthetically pleasing and eye-catching designs we can. Even with these bespoke designs, we’re also remaining practical. After all, the driveways of 2020 have to withstand the weight of heavy vehicles. Not to mention the astonishing ability of children who seem to be able to destroy anything. With so many different types of driveway materials on the markets, it’s no surprise that many become confused. Here At King’s Driveways, we are placing the focus on gravel! Here are a few facts.

Durability

• If your house is located in an area that receives a lot of moisture, such as rainfall or high humidity- gravel could be the perfect solution. It allows moisture to drain away very quickly, this means you don’t have to worry about the drains at the end of your driveway flooding. and creating a mini neighborhood swimming pool!
• A gravel driveway is not a permanently flat surface which means that it needs constant care to ensure that it maintains its aesthetic value. The longer you continue to put off removing debris such as leaves and sticks from your gravel driveway, the more difficult and time-consuming you are making it for your future self when you finally get around to it. This task should be completed on a weekly basis for those who want a pristine exterior.
• Gravel is a very durable material and whilst it requires more maintenance. Gravel has been said to last a lifetime when homeowners correctly care for it. The maintenance of a gravel driveway includes raking it on a regular basis to ensure that the distribution of material is even. It is also wise to remove debris such as leaves. If maintained, You do not have to have the gravel re-laid in the future. Any holes in the surface should always be filled with fresh gravel, as moving existing material from one place to another will result in an uneven layer.

Range and Types of Gravel

• Unlike some materials, gravel comes in a wide range of different colors and types. It’s particularly important if you are looking for a wide range to choose from. For example, gravel with smaller stones allows for a surface that is easier to walk and balance on. It makes it perfect for homes that are frequented by high foot traffic.

Gravel is always seen as a risky material when it comes to a driveway. However, more and more homeowners are attracted to the crunching sounds it makes as you walk from your car to your front door. Whether you’re looking for that aesthetic gravel look or want something completely different. Kings Driveways team has got you covered!

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How to Make a Concrete Driveway Stand Out

Written by Stefan and published on https://www.homedit.com/.

When it comes to making that all-important material decision for your driveway, it is not uncommon to feel underconfident in your final decision. Kings Driveways believe that concrete doesn’t get as much love as other materials do. Mainly, due to the misconception that it is dull and lacks the ‘WOW factor’. People want a brand new exterior, which is why we have put together this blog. Here’s our guide on how to make your Concrete Driveway stand out.

How To Improve The Look Of A Driveway

When it comes to exteriors, driveways tend to be a neglected area of design. Often thought of as entirely functional, driveways tend to be the least glamorous part of a home’s grounds. More focus is usually placed on a rear patio or the green elements of landscaping. However, a well-designed driveway is an asset to a property. One that fits in well with the rest of the exterior can really complement and add to a landscape design. If you are updating your driveway or designing a new one, think about one that will fit in well with the rest of your home and enhance it.

Circular Driveways.

Ever popular, circular driveways mean that you can turn a vehicle without having to find the reverse gear of your car. If you have sufficient space for a turning circle, then a simple way of improving your driveway is to turn it into a circular one. Circular driveways create an imposing effect when they are first accessed by visitors. If you want to impress guests, then go for a round option and install a circular driveway.

Using Gravel.

There’s nothing like the crunching sound that tires make on a gravel driveway. A relatively cost-effective way of making a driveway, pea shingle is often considered to be the best material to use. You can evoke an old-fashioned and classy look by just pouring the gravel into the area you want. However, remember that gravel driveways need to be maintained and that you will have to rake over the surface from time to time to prevent the gravel dispersing.

Improving A Concrete Driveway.

Just about the simplest driveway surface to maintain is one made from concrete. A poured concrete driveway is quick and easy to construct. However, they can look a little boring. If you are opting for a concrete driveway then break up the visual look of it by setting some blocks between the concrete slabs. Use some detailing to add interest. Also, consider making a feature of the edge of your concrete driveway and break up the monolithic look by using simple curves.

Grass.

Improve your driveway the natural way by using grass as a design element. Using a grass strip down the center of your driveway will mean you can save hundreds of dollars on materials, for even modest driveways. Think about long-stemmed grasses to the side of your drive, with a hardy grass sown in the middle. Of course, you will need to mow the driveway in the summer months, but the look of a grass drive is worth the effort.

Geometric Patterns.

Large driveways can be visually unappealing because they present a large expanse of a single tone. A great way to get around this problem is to use simple geometric designs to make a feature of the surface. Consider overlaying and intersecting circles, zig-zags, or diagonal stripes to create a novel effect that will make your driveway stand out from the crowd.

Block Paving.

Block paved driveways are popular in many exteriors because they are relatively easy to maintain. The advantage of black paving over other driveway options is that the bricks that sit together making up the surface can be lifted out, if required. So, if you have an unsightly oil spill, you are able to simply replace the stained area. Regular block paving has a layout that is consistent over the surface, with designs ranging from simple squares to a herringbone. However, an individual style can easily be created by using a range of different sized and shaped blocks.

Architectural Planting.

Use planting to the side of your driveway that has plenty of ground cover and, above all, height. This will mean the view of your driveway is hidden to some extent when viewed from your house. By using planting to create ‘walls’ around your drive, it will give the area a sense of an external room, making it a distinct space of its own. This technique is ideal for long driveways without any other design features or private access roads.

Gateways.

Don’t overlook the access point to your driveway. Wrought iron gates create a classy and Old World look that is hard to beat. However, if your home is modern, there are plenty of contemporary gates that will suit you. Even if you want access to your driveway to remain open, a set of unclosed gates creates a sense theatre, when entering a property.

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Why Add a Border Around Your Driveway

Written by C.J. Hughes and published on https://www.thisoldhouse.com/.

Do you know what a driveway border is? You may have seen them around the driveways of homes in nice neighborhoods, or perhaps you have a friend who has just recently invested in one and is currently raving about it. Regardless, it’s probably left you curious about this type of exterior renovation, especially as it relates to decorative concrete. What purpose does laying a border around your driveway serve? What kinds of looks and textures are available to you? If you don’t own a concrete driveway, is a stamped concrete driveway border still a worthwhile investment – and is it even possible?

A Better Driveway Border

Belgian block edging keeps the pavement out of your yard, and vice versa.

The driveway’s asphalt edges are crumbling. Rainwater is washing away mulch. Plus, cars are straying onto the grass, leaving tire tracks where they don’t belong. One solution to all three problems? A crisp boundary made of Belgian block.

The rough-cut rectangles of stone first carried to these shores as ballast in the bellies of ships have been used for paving since colonial times. When placed side-to-side along the perimeter of the driveway, they add a touch of distinction as they protect vulnerable edges from eroding or being split apart by shoots of grass. And there are the less tangible benefits: “Stone edging looks good in all four seasons,” says This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook.

Setting block edging is a one-person project that can be done in a weekend or two, depending on the length of the driveway. If done the right way — with the stones firmly bedded in a thick concrete base for support, and no mortar in the joints, which can become a maintenance headache later on — it will never need any more attention.

On the following pages, Roger demonstrates how to set it and forget it.

Concrete Facts

A 60-lb. bag of premixed concrete, while convenient to buy, is only enough for a 2-foot-long setting bed. For big projects, it’s less expensive to buy bagged cement and a pile of sand. One 80-lb. bag of cement and 200 pounds of sand make a 20-foot setting base. Blend the dry materials first — three shovelfuls of sand to each shovel of cement — then add just enough water to make a good, stiff mix.

Stone Edge, Step-by-Step

1. EXCAVATE

Dig a trench 1 foot wide and 8 inches deep along the edge of the driveway. If the driveway slopes, start at the top and work downhill. Toss the dirt in a wheelbarrow and dump it on a tarp. You’ll need some later for backfill.

2. Clean the edge

Snap a chalk line on the pavement, just inside the driveway’s edge. With a cold chisel and 3-lb. sledgehammer, slice away the asphalt along this line. (Make sure to wear safety goggles.) Trim the soil beneath the pavement flush with a clean edge. Before discarding the asphalt chunks, check whether your town recycles them.

3. Stake a line

Drive two stakes at the edge of the driveway, no more than 50 feet apart. Tie a mason’s line between them. Its height above the top edge of the pavement should be no more than half the depth of the stone. (Roger used a 2-inch exposure for this project.) Check this height along the string and adjust it as needed by adding a stake. Layout the first 10 blocks along the pavement near your starting point: at a corner or the most conspicuous end.

4. Set the blocks

In a wheelbarrow, mix up a batch of concrete. It should be relatively stiff so it doesn’t squeeze up between the blocks. Shovel a few inches of concrete into the trench over a 3-foot stretch at the starting point, then use a trowel to smooth out the mix. Now take one block and set it in the concrete, tightly against the pavement and even with the corner.

5. Level the tops

With a rubber mallet, tap the stone’s top flush with the mason’s line. Bed and even up the remaining stones, one after the other, keeping each one tight against the last.

6. Secure the bases

When all 10 blocks are in place, push the concrete 6 inches up their backsides, then trowel it smooth at a 45-degree slope. Layout 10 more blocks and repeat the steps.

7. Turning corners

Where the edging turns a corner, keep the stone faces tight to one another. Always end a row with a full-sized stone. If it doesn’t fit, use a diamond-bladed saw or grinder to trim the last four stones in the row. Trim them all by the same amount to make the changes in size less noticeable.

Finishing Touches

When all the blocks are set, sweep some stone dust (available in bulk at stone yards) or ground limestone (sold in bags at nurseries) into the gap between the blocks and the pavement. Don’t use sand; it attracts ants. Finally, fill behind the blocks with topsoil and plant with grass seed or cover with mulch.

Block Basics

Belgian block, the generic name for granite cobblestones, comes in three sizes — regulation (or regular), jumbo, and cube — and in four colors: pink, black, tan, and gray.

For this project, Roger used regulation blocks, which measure about 5 by 5 by 9 inches and weigh 20 pounds apiece. You’ll need approximately 12 regulations for every 5 feet of edging. They’re typically sold by the pallet. One pallet holds roughly 140 pieces of this size.

If you need bigger blocks, choose the jumbos (4 by 7 by 10 inches; 29 pounds; 100 pieces per pallet). Cubes measure 4 by 4 by 4 inches. They’re too small for edging, but they make fine pavers.

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How to Reseal Traditional Concrete

Written by Admin and published on https://www.portaggregates.com.

Summer is in full swing! With the warmer weather and the days getting longer, it’s the perfect time to take care of any exterior maintenance you’ve been putting off until now. Specifically, we’re talking about your concrete. Stamped concrete, decorative concrete, and traditional concrete alike all require periodic care on the part of the owner to ensure their longevity and prolonged beauty. This has nothing to do with the quality of the individual concrete patio or concrete driveway; just like your roof, siding, and gutters, your concrete is exposed to the elements 24/7. Of course, it would need a little help to stay strong in the face of that!

How to Seal a Concrete Surface

Regularly sealing concrete maintains its longevity and durability for decades to come. Exterior surfaces need protection from extreme temperatures, inclement weather, heavy impacts, or harsh abrasion. Interior surfaces benefit from sealants that offer protection against heavy foot-traffic, damaging cleaning supplies, and staining.

New Concrete Surfaces

For new concrete, allow at least one month for it to cure completely before applying a sealant.

Cleaning and Damage Repair to Existing Concrete Surfaces

No matter what kind of surface you’re sealing or sealer you’re using, unless you have freshly poured the concrete, the first step of the process is always to prep the surface with a thorough cleaning. You will need to either repair or resurface the concrete if any damage exists. From that point on, the processes differ slightly depending on the specifics of your project.

After giving an exterior surface a good power wash or after sweeping and scrubbing indoor surfaces, check the condition of your concrete surface. Some surfaces may need to be sanded or ground until perfectly smooth for the sealant to bond appropriately. Penetrating sealers are more forgiving in this regard than acrylic, epoxy, or polyurethane sealants.

If the concrete already has had a sealant applied, we recommend stripping it from the surface before resealing. The exception to this is if you are applying the same brand of sealant and the manufacturer recommends layering applications over time.

For both interior and exterior surfaces, allow 24 hours for all moisture on the surface from cleaning or stripping concrete to dry after cleaning before applying a sealer.

Also, before using any sealant, damaged areas in the concrete surface must be repaired. Any surface that is not smooth due to pitting, cracks, erosion, or spalling must be patched and repaired or resurfaced completely before applying a sealer. Allow for the appropriate drying time of any repair materials used.

For indoor surfaces, before repairing any damaged areas or applying any sealer, use a degreaser to ensure the materials will bond appropriately. For outdoor spaces, make sure that any materials such as oil or paint are removed using solvents, detergent, or acid. Allow 24 hours drying time after applying and scrubbing off any cleaning agents.

Once you have a smooth, clean, dry surface to work with, you’re almost ready to apply the sealer.

Preparing the Work Space

For interior concrete surfaces, remove trim such as molding and baseboards. You may also want to use protective tape or sheeting to adjacent surfaces.

For exterior surfaces, the most important step before applying a sealer is to check the weather. Most sealants require a minimum of 50°F and a maximum of 90°F for application, and you’ll want to avoid the rain for the duration of the application process as well as a 5-day curing period for most sealant types.

Applying the Concrete Sealer

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions as to the recommended number of coats to use, whether you should use a roller or sprayer for application, and the drying time necessary for curing. Typically, curing time is 1-2 days, and most sealers will require a two-coat application.

Some penetrating sealers may even need three or more coats. Some sealers, such as polyurethanes have high levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) so be aware that a respirator or mask may be needed.

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Why You Should Get A Concrete Patio In Time For Summer

Written by Andrew and published on https://www.cretejack.com/.

More and more people are enjoying the English summer weather and enjoying spending time in their gardens, so it’s important to have your garden looking top-notch!. There are several reasons why you should add a decorative concrete patio to your garden. Summer is the perfect time to do it.

Adding a patio to your garden makes it more accessible for all ages, making your garden all one level. Elderly companions would be able to enjoy the garden without the worry. Especially with them falling on unsettled grounds. It is also easier for children to play on the patio and there wouldn’t be any grass marks on their clothes and reduces the risk of muddy-hand prints.

Summer is the Perfect Time to Level Your Concrete Patio

We all know how elusive the warm, summer days are in Denver, when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing, and the temperature is just right. When these days happen, who wants to be stuck inside? It is the perfect occasion to spend as much time as possible on your concrete patio outside, whether taking meals, playing with your pets or children, or just relaxing reading a book.

But your patio might not be in the best shape. Perhaps it is cracked, split, or uneven. This could cause tripping hazards to those who are playing outside. It can also make placing patio furniture difficult. The last thing you want to do is to have a table that is crooked because your patio is not level. You could also notice that, after it rains, water is pooling in spots it doesn’t normally gather. To take the most advantage of your patio, you should consider leveling it in the summer.

Temperature is Just Right

Although there is no “perfect” temperature to inject our polyurethane foam into the ground to level your patio, a winter repair can pose a few problems. The foam cannot be pushed into the ground if the ground is frozen. If the ground is hard and frozen, the foam will be unable to expand and fill in all the small holes found beneath the concrete. In order for this expansion to occur, the soil underneath needs to be able to move and shift around a bit; a frozen ground will not allow this. If you schedule a foam leveling repair job in the summer, there is no chance of running into frozen ground, and thus, your repair will be able to be completed when you want it to.

No Downtime

One concern you may have about repairing your concrete patio in the summer is being able to use it. Having your patio available to you, even if in need of repair, is better than no patio at all. This is not anything to be concerned about, however, if you choose to use the foam leveling technique. The light foam material we use is quick-curing. This means your patio can be used almost immediately after the repair is finished. You could have us come in the morning to level your patio and host a party on it in the afternoon. That’s how fast and easy our foam leveling process is. With our foam leveling technique, there is no need to worry about putting your patio out of commission if you decide to repair it.

Getting Started

The summer is the perfect time to repair your concrete patio, as there is no concern about the weather affecting the job, and there is no downtime associated with our foam leveling process. You want to be able to enjoy those warm Denver days outside without having to worry about your friends or family tripping over the broken concrete, or having to look at the unseemly cracks in your patio. Our foam leveling process is quick and easy.

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