How to add a turnaround space to a driveway

Posted on

Introduction

If you’ve ever struggled to back out of your driveway onto a busy street, you know how frustrating—and dangerous—it can be. The solution? A turnaround space. Adding a turnaround makes entering and exiting your property easier, safer, and more convenient. Whether you choose a circular design, a T-shape, or a simple parking pad, this upgrade can transform your daily routine. In this guide, you’ll learn step by step how to add a turnaround space to a driveway, along with design options, construction tips, and maintenance advice.

Why a Turnaround Matters for Your Driveway

A turnaround offers both functional and aesthetic benefits:

  • Improved safety: Avoid backing into traffic by turning around before exiting.
  • Convenience: Pulling forward is quicker and less stressful than reversing long distances.
  • Added parking: Turnaround areas double as extra parking spots for guests.
  • Boosted property value: A well-designed turnaround enhances curb appeal.
  • Reduced wear: Repeated reversing strains both driveways and vehicles.

By planning and building properly, your turnaround will serve you for decades.

Step-by-Step Guide to Adding a Turnaround Space

Step 1: Choose the Right Turnaround Design

Different turnaround layouts suit different properties:

  • Circular Driveway: Best for large front yards; allows continuous flow in and out.
  • T-Shaped Turnaround: Ideal for narrow lots; creates a short extension where vehicles can reverse, then pull forward.
  • Y-Shaped Turnaround: Works well in sloped areas; allows easy redirection without a full circle.
  • Parking Pad Extension: A simple side extension that doubles as extra parking.

Pro Tip: Measure your available space and driveway location before committing to a design.

Step 2: Check Local Regulations

  • Contact your local municipality for zoning and setback rules.
  • Some areas restrict the size or placement of driveway additions.
  • Permits may be required if excavation or drainage changes are involved.

Step 3: Plan the Layout

  • Use stakes and string lines to outline the turnaround shape.
  • Ensure the extension allows enough room for vehicles to maneuver (at least 10–12 feet wide for a single vehicle turnaround).
  • Maintain proper slope for water runoff (about 1 inch per 8 feet).

Step 4: Gather Tools and Materials

You’ll need:

  • Stakes, string, and measuring tape
  • Shovels and rakes
  • Excavator or skid steer (for larger projects)
  • Gravel or crushed stone for the base
  • Asphalt or concrete for the surface (or pavers for a decorative look)
  • Plate compactor
  • Wooden forms (for concrete projects)
  • Sealant for finishing

Step 5: Excavate the Area

  • Remove grass, topsoil, and debris from the marked area.
  • Excavate 8–12 inches deep to allow for base material and surface.
  • Shape the subgrade with a slight slope away from buildings for drainage.

Step 6: Install the Base Layer

  • Spread 4–6 inches of crushed stone or gravel.
  • Compact firmly with a plate compactor.
  • Add another 2–4 inches and compact again.
  • Ensure the base is level but maintains slope for water runoff.

Step 7: Add the Surface Material

  • Asphalt: Apply hot mix asphalt over the base and compact. Smooth with a roller for a clean finish.
  • Concrete: Build wooden forms, pour concrete mix, level with a screed, and finish with a broom texture. Allow to cure 24–48 hours.
  • Pavers: Lay a 1-inch sand bedding layer over the base. Place pavers in your chosen pattern, install edging restraints, and fill joints with sand.

Step 8: Blend with Existing Driveway

  • Tie the turnaround into your main driveway smoothly, avoiding bumps or uneven transitions.
  • Feather asphalt or concrete edges so the new space flows naturally into the existing surface.
  • For gravel driveways, add fresh gravel across the whole area for a uniform look.

Step 9: Finish and Seal

  • Apply a driveway sealer to asphalt or concrete once cured.
  • For pavers, apply a polymeric sand joint filler and optional sealer to lock in color.
  • Landscaping around the turnaround can soften the look and enhance curb appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mistake 1: Skipping Permits
    Unapproved expansions may violate codes or setback rules.
    Solution: Always check local regulations before starting.
  • Mistake 2: Ignoring Drainage
    Flat extensions cause water pooling and long-term damage.
    Solution: Maintain a proper slope for runoff.
  • Mistake 3: Using Weak Base Material
    Thin or un-compacted gravel leads to sinking and cracks.
    Solution: Compact base in layers for strength.
  • Mistake 4: Not Matching Surface Material
    Mismatched materials look patchy and reduce curb appeal.
    Solution: Use the same surface as your existing driveway or resurface both areas together.
  • Mistake 5: Building Too Small
    A cramped turnaround won’t function properly.
    Solution: Allow at least 10–12 feet in width for a usable turnaround.

Extra Driveway Tips & Hacks

  • Add Landscaping Borders: Plant shrubs, bricks, or edging stones to frame your turnaround and protect edges from erosion.
  • Use Decorative Pavers: For added style, install contrasting paver borders around a concrete or asphalt turnaround.
  • Install Lighting: Pathway or in-ground lighting improves safety and enhances nighttime curb appeal.
  • Consider Snow Removal: Design your turnaround with snow clearing in mind—straight edges make plowing easier.

For related projects, see our guide on how to upgrade a gravel driveway with pavers, which pairs well with turnaround extensions.

Conclusion

Adding a turnaround space to your driveway improves safety, convenience, and aesthetics. By choosing the right design, preparing a solid base, and finishing with durable materials, you can create a long-lasting feature that adds value to your property.

Pro Tip: Think long-term. Building slightly larger than you think you need ensures your turnaround will serve both current and future vehicle needs.