In Northeast Ohio, thickness isn't a random choice—it's about load capacity and durability against ground movement caused by the freeze-thaw cycle.
When is 4 Inches Enough?
A 4-inch slab can support roughly 8,000 to 10,000 lbs. Since the average SUV weighs about 5,000 lbs, a 4-inch driveway is more than sufficient for daily residential use.
- Best for: Standard passenger vehicles, daily parking, basketball areas.
- Requirement: Must have a stable, compacted stone base to prevent hollow spots.
When Should You Go to 6 Inches?
Increasing the thickness to 5 or 6 inches increases the load-bearing capacity by nearly 50%. This is an upgrade worth considering if:
- You own heavy-duty work trucks (F-350, dump trucks).
- You park a large RV, boat trailer, or camper for long periods.
- Delivery trucks (UPS/FedEx) frequently use your driveway to turn around.
The Apron: Local Code Compliance
The apron (the first 10-15 feet connecting to the street) handles turning tires and municipal snow plows. Because of this, many cities in Northeast Ohio (like Solon and Beachwood) require the apron to be **6 inches thick** by code.
The Secret is the Base
You could pour 10 inches of concrete, but if it sits on soft mud, it will crack. In our clay-heavy region, we install a 4-inch base of **#304 limestone** and compact it with heavy equipment. This stone layer acts as a shock absorber when the ground freezes and thaws.