Types of Concrete Curbs

Free-Standing

• Free-standing, or plain, curbs are formed as a solid block of concrete that is typically 20 inches high, with the upper 6 to 8 inches exposed to the street. If the grade of the street is flat, this type of curb is not ideal. Proper drainage is difficult and water may build up and flood.

Combined

• Combined curbs are ideal in flat areas, where drainage may be an issue. The curbs are formed with a gutter, which enables water to drain properly. Combined curbs are separated into three types according to their exposed height. Type A has an exposed height of 6 inches, type B is exposed by 4 inches, and type C has 8 inches of exposed curb. The type of combined curb used depends on the drainage needed.

Mountable

• Mountable curbs, also called roll curbs, have sloped fronts that enable vehicles to drive over them without causing damage to tires. These are typically used for driveways, with a slight slope that allows cars to drive over them. Mountable curbs are also used on roadways, to provide a boundary that warns the driver but doesn't damage the tires.

Integral Curb

• Used specifically with concrete pavement, not tarred surfaces, an integral curb is reinforced with stirrup bars when the curb is poured. The exposed 6 inches of the curb is placed over the curb base with the stirrup bars connecting the parts. These types of curbs are used where reinforcement is necessary.

Integral Curbwalk

• An integral curbwalk is formed in the same way as a basic integral curb, but the curb is connected to a sidewalk. Replacing damaged portions of an integral curbwalk is difficult, because the sidewalk and curb are interlocked. Both have to be replaced in the event of cracks or other damage. This type of curb is not used often because it is expensive and labor-intensive to replace.

Center

• Often seen in medians between lanes of traffic, a concrete center curb is used primarily as a barrier to keep traffic on separate sides of the road or to separate turning lanes. This type of curb varies in exposed height depending on the type and amount of traffic on the roadway.