Tips for Pouring Concrete Driveways

Budget Before you Begin

• Pouring a driveway entails many costs. You need to include the cost of the concrete itself, rental of a backhoe (if necessary), gravel, mesh underwire and odds and ends items such as wooden stakes, string and sealant. A budget beforehand will ensure you have enough money set aside for the job.

Utility and Building Permit

• There is nothing worse than digging into your yard and finding you have disrupted the phone service for the neighborhood. It is always a good idea to call utility companies to ensure there are no power lines buried on your property. You will also want to call city hall and discuss any building regulations in your area.

Plan Your Driveway's Path

• Ensure there are no trees or other obstacles in the path you want for your driveway. Mark off the path you want first, and, if you run into any obstacles, decide whether you want to add the expense of removing them or if you want to re-route your driveway. This is a good time to make sure you have chosen the most level, direct route available. Pouring an up- or downhill driveway can be difficult.

Have a Driveway Party

• Budget steaks, burgers and bratwursts into your driveway budget, and invite friends over to help lay the driveway. A barbecue is a way to show your friends you appreciate the help.