The width of a driveway can be confusing and depends on many factors. That’s why when people decide to build a driveway, one of the most asked questions is “How wide should a driveway be?”.
A driveway can make a big first impression – and its dimensions are one of the most critical aspects of your layout. Before you make up your mind, be conscious of the design of your driveway installation and the type of vehicles you plan to park on it.
So how wide should a driveway be? Don’t worry! If you want to build a driveway, this article will teach you everything you need to know about the necessary measurements of such a project!
Read also: Cost Of Pavers Per Square Foot In 2024: A Complete Guide
How Wide Should a Driveway Be?
The width of a driveway will vary based on whether you want a single-car drive or double-car drive, how many cars you plan to park, and the sizes of your cars. But the answer is simple: a driveway must be large enough to easily park your cars. That’s how wide should a driveway be.
Generally, the one-way driveway width is enough for those who own only average-size cars. A two-way driveway width installation is required for those who own larger vehicles.
Single-car driveways can be from 10 to 12 feet, while double-car driveways can be between 20 and 24 feet wide, but if you need space for parking two cars, consider the width of 24 feet.
Check the chart below to see the recommended width for each type of driveway.
| Type | Size range |
| Single Car Driveway | 10 – 12 feet |
| Double Car Driveway | 20 – 24 feet |
| Single Car Turn-around | 10 feet x 20 feet |
| Double Car Turn-around | 20 feet x 20 feet |
It’s important to remember that those are the only measures to reference. You should always consider your car’s size before building a driveway.
Is there a Minimum Width for a Driveway?
If you have enough space available, you can plan your driveway width with a minimum of 10 feet for each vehicle and 2 feet more to walk easily between the cars or other vehicles.
What About Driveway Parking Space?
The width of a driveway parking space depends on how many cars you are considering to park. The recommendation is 10 feed of width by 22 of length per vehicle. And if you prefer to have a side-by-the-side parking area, the recommendation is 20 feet to 24 feet in width.
But if you own bigger vehicles, you might need to add some feet to your parking area. As a result, the more room you provide for driving and vehicle tires, the less damage your asphalt or paver surface will suffer, and the less likely it is for a crash to happen.
Width of a circular driveway
When designing a circular, horseshoe, or turnaround driveway, it’s essential to allocate a minimum width of 12 feet, though a broader width is often preferable.
This width accommodates the turning radius required for most vehicles, ensuring they can maneuver comfortably without the risk of encroaching onto adjacent grass or landscaping.
To create an effective design, work with a hardscape contractor to develop a comprehensive plan tailored to your specific needs.
A professional will take into account the dimensions necessary for vehicles and factors such as the size of your property and any local regulations governing driveway construction.
By working with an expert, you can ensure that your driveway is not only functional but also compliant with relevant standards and optimally suited to your property’s layout.
What Should I Pave My Driveway With?
It’s not just about how wide should a driveway be – keep in mind the longevity of the installation investment as well. For driveways to last, the surface needs to be resistant and able to hold a lot of weight and friction. After all, cars are passing over it all the time.
Pavers are the go-to option for covering a driveway surface and are well-known for being durable and resistant. Plus, you can even boost your curb appeal depending on how you choose to install them and in what style/color.
Comparing pavers to Flagstone, we recommend paving your driveway with concrete pavers. Even though flagstones are equally durable and resistant, if you install them in a driveway, they can break easily since they are thinner than bricks and can’t take the heavyweight so well.
How long does a paver driveway last?
The lifespan of a paver driveway can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of materials used, the installation technique, climate conditions, and maintenance practices. Generally, a well-installed paver driveway can last anywhere from 25 to 50 years.
High-quality pavers made from durable materials such as concrete, brick, or natural stone tend to last longer. Proper installation, including a solid base and adequate drainage, is crucial for maximizing longevity.
The climate also plays a significant role. Paver driveways in areas with harsh weather conditions like extreme heat, freezing temperatures, or heavy rainfall may experience more wear and tear over time, potentially shortening their lifespan.
Read also: The 3 best tools to remove weeds between pavers
The Benefits of a Paver Driveway
A driveway installation may look just like another expense at first, but you will see that a driveway comes with more pros than cons in the long term.
As mentioned earlier, pavers are incredibly durable, with just a little maintenance from time to time being necessary. They can handle the weight of vehicles without cracking or becoming damaged. And they also increase your curb appeal. After installation, driveway pavers will instantly make a difference in your house facade. A nice and well-designed driveway can make such a difference that it will even add value to your property if you sell it eventually.
You can have a professional contractor install driveway pavers in a couple of days, and S&S Pavers has over 10 years of experience doing that in the counties of Manatee and Sarasota. From the design of your project to its execution, we can handle everything. Get a free estimate! If you live in Florida, don’t hesitate to contact us!
FAQ
Q: What is the proper width for a driveway with two cars?
A: Usually between 20 and 24 feet wide. 20×20 in case of turn-around.
Q: What is the average width of a car?
A: It is a standard of the industry that no vehicle should exceed 8 feet in width. On average, the width of a simple car is 5.8 feet. As for pick-up trucks, they are, on average, 6.7 feet wide.
Q: How thick should concrete pavers be for a driveway?
A: A semi-official guide of the industry is to use 80 mm pavers with a standard six-inch base for a driveway.
Q: Is poured concrete cheaper than pavers for a driveway?
A: Technically, yes. The upfront costs are poured concrete are cheaper. However, in the long run, concrete doesn’t even come close to being as good as pavers. Pavers have much more durability and can last for a lifetime when properly cared for, whereas poured concrete lasts for three years at the most before cracking and needing replacement.
Q: Can I use 50 mm pavers for a driveway?
A: You can get away with a 50 mm paver if you own a small, light domestic car. Anything bigger will require at least a 60 mm paver. For heavier vehicles, such as a 4×4 and SUV, anything less than 80 mm is out of the question. There’s not a lot of difference in price from the 50 mm to the 80 mm paver, so you might as well go with the strongest option from the start.
