Driveway Solutions for Limited Parking in Somerville Homes

Utilizing Yard Space Efficiently

In Somerville, we do not enjoy the luxury of large yards; they are simply not typical in our town’s neighborhoods. The traditional suburban house plan rarely fits well between historic triple-decker homes lining Somerville streets. The key to making as much use of the available space as possible is to utilize every square inch of the yard when creating a functional concrete driveway. When determining the most efficient shape of your driveway, experienced contractors will evaluate the individual dimensions of each yard and develop a creative way to fit the necessary driveway length and width within the yard while still preserving as much of the yard for grass and/or other greenery as possible.

Ribbon Driveway Design Options

For those who wish to keep their lawns intact, a ribbon design may be the best option. Ribbon designs involve two parallel strips of pavement side-by-side, but leave a strip of grass or gravel down the middle. Historically, this design has been used for many homes located near Union Square. Ribbon designs help to reduce the total amount of impervious surface (asphalt) and, therefore, help to improve drainage. They also make a very narrow area appear wider, providing a greater sense of openness and a welcoming feel.

Durable Against New England Winters

Our area of the country is known for its extreme temperature fluctuations, especially the numerous freeze/thaw cycles during the winter months. As moisture seeps into the surface of the driveway, freezes, and then expands, it can produce serious cracking if the underlying mixture is of poor quality. Therefore, it is extremely important to choose high-quality mixtures that will withstand these harsh conditions for years to come. Air-entrained mixtures create micro-bubbles that will expand without causing damage to the interior of the mixture. Proper curing techniques will seal the surface of the driveway against both salt and chemical de-icer chemicals.

Creating a Stable Base

The durability of any paving project relies solely upon the stability of the base it rests upon. Digging the site to the proper depth to remove unstable topsoil that will shift over time is the first step. A properly graded and compacted layer of gravel will provide the needed drainage for the driveway and will also prevent heaving of the driveway due to frost. In most cases, failing to create a stable base will result in structural failure of the driveway within a couple of seasons. Experienced professionals will ensure the base is level prior to the start of the pour.

Dealing With Local Codes and Permits

Working in an urban environment such as Somerville, you are required to comply with local zoning regulations. To install a curb-cut or widen an existing entrance, you must navigate the complexities of city bureaucracy. Many cities regulate the size of curb-cuts based on the number of on-street parking spots available in order to maintain adequate street parking. Knowing the local codes will save you money in the form of fines and/or orders to remove non-compliant work. Experiencing locals will be able to guide you through this permit process in the shortest amount of time possible.

Controlling Stormwater Runoff

Impervious surfaces such as asphalt driveways contribute to stormwater runoff problems in many paved neighborhoods. Often, local ordinances require that stormwater runoff be controlled on-site. By grading the driveway to direct the water away from your foundation and towards a suitable drainage area, you can control the amount of water that accumulates on your property. Additionally, using permeable pavers allows the water to filter through to the ground below, reducing puddles and ice formation during the colder months.

Improving Curb-Appeal and Home Value

You don’t have to sacrifice functionality for aesthetics. Installing a new driveway is a great opportunity to update the exterior of your home. Many modern finishing techniques can give the appearance of natural stone or brick. Using the same color as your home’s siding to match the new driveway will create a seamless and polished look. Even a simple broom finish provides a clean, slip-resistant surface that appears neat.

Creating a Pathway and Edge

To create a pathway from your parking area to either your front or back door, you need to think about the flow of traffic. To avoid creating tripping hazards, it is recommended to create a smooth transition from the parking pad to the pathways. Adding decorative stones around the edge of the parking pad and pathways will add an element of class to your design. The stones will also act as a barrier between the landscaping and the tires of your vehicles. Add some lighting to the edge of the parking pad/pathways to increase safety for late-night visitors.

Repair vs. Replace

A cracked driveway does not always mean you need to tear out the entire old driveway and install a brand new one. Based on the severity of the damage, there are times when it would be more economical to repair the damaged surface versus replace the entire driveway. For example, minor surface flaking or small cracks can be repaired by a professional concrete contractor. Serious structural damage, however, will typically require a full replacement to ensure your safety. Avoiding unnecessary major construction will save you money.

Selecting the Best Local Company to Work With

Each home in our community presents a unique challenge when it comes to accessing the property and working in tight spaces. Choosing a company that is knowledgeable about the hills of Winter Hill and the tight streets of East Somerville is crucial. Bringing heavy machinery into tight spaces requires skill and care. At Somerville Concrete Masters, we treat your property with respect and maintain a clean work site from start to finish. We take pride in providing long-lasting and attractive solutions that resolve your parking needs.