Maybe you have an existing driveway that looks tired or run-down, and you’re thinking about getting a new driveway.
But you may be asking yourself, do I need to remove my current driveway to have a new one installed?
You may be able to have a new driveway laid on top of your old one.
It all depends on your current driveway and what you want to lay over the top.
Below, we’ll cover whether you can have a new driveway installed over your existing one.
Can You Have a Driveway Laid Over an Existing One?
Yes, you can have a new driveway installed on top of your existing one in some circumstances.
It will depend on your current driveway and what you wish to lay on top of it.
As long as your driveway has a good, solid base and isn’t damaged, you may be able to have a new driveway installed over it.
If you have cracked areas of your driveway or it’s beginning to sink, you may need to resolve these issues first.
Have a driveway company come out and inspect your driveway to see what’s possible.
Can You Lay Resin Over an Existing Driveway?
You may be able to install resin-bound paving over your existing driveway if it’s made from concrete or tarmac.
However, your driveway needs to be structurally sound and suitable for resin to be laid over the top.
If you have areas that are cracking or starting to sink, you may need to have these repaired or a new base created.
Another thing to keep in mind when having resin laid over your current driveway is drainage.
Laying resin over your existing driveway doesn’t automatically mean your whole driveway will be permeable.
Speak to our driveway team to find out if your current driveway is suitable for resin-bound paving.
Can You Lay Tarmac Over an Existing Driveway?
You may be able to have a new layer of tarmac laid over your current driveway.
If your existing tarmac is worn but has a good base underneath, resurfacing may be an option.
You may need to repair any cracked areas before having a new surface installed.
However, if your driveway has major cracks, sinking areas or drainage issues, it may not be ideal to simply have a new layer of tarmac laid over it.
Have a driveway company come out to take a look at your driveway and see what would be best.
Can You Lay Block Paving Over an Existing Driveway?
You typically need a good base underneath block paving to ensure it can support the weight of vehicles driving over it.
Some paving systems can be laid over an existing driveway, but you shouldn’t simply lay block paving over your current surface without checking its condition.
You may need to have your existing driveway dug out to ensure the correct layers are in place.
Having your old driveway removed will allow you to create a properly prepared base that helps prevent movement or sinking.
If you’re looking to have block paving installed, speak to one of our installers.
Should You Remove Your Existing Driveway?
Having a new driveway laid over these problems can cause further issues in the future.
You may also need to dig out your driveway if there are drainage issues or your current driveway is too high.
Having your existing driveway removed will allow the ground to be inspected before a new driveway is laid.
Although this can involve more work, starting fresh may be the better option for your driveway.
Will My Driveway Be Higher If I Have a New One Laid Over My Old One?
Your driveway will usually be higher if you have a new surface laid over your existing one.
This is something to keep in mind when having your driveway installed.
Having your driveway higher than normal can cause problems with your garage door, entrances or drainage.
Make sure that rainwater drains away from your house and not towards it.
Have a driveway company come out and take a look at your current driveway to see if it’s suitable for resurfacing.
Do I Need Planning Permission to Replace My Driveway?
Usually, you don’t need to apply for planning permission to replace your driveway.
However, this depends on the type of surface you choose and how rainwater is managed.
In England, planning permission is generally required for a new or replacement front driveway covering more than five square metres if the surface is impermeable and rainwater doesn’t drain to a suitable permeable area.
Make sure you check whether there are any additional conditions that apply to your property.
If you’re unsure, speak to your local planning department before starting your driveway project.
Install a New Driveway with RJB Paving
If you would like to install a new driveway or replace your old one, RJB Paving can help.
We offer a range of driveway surfaces, including resin, tarmac, block paving and tar and chippings.
Whether you’re looking to resurface your existing driveway or have a completely new one installed, we can discuss the options available for your property.
Get in contact with RJB Paving today to find out more about your new driveway.
