Specifications for commercial concrete driveways are stricter than residential concrete driveways. This is because large, heavy trucks and other vehicles regularly use them. Heavier vehicles require thicker concrete and base depths to avoid cracking and deterioration of the concrete. Each city or township has its own requirements for commercial driveway specifications.

Here are 6 recommendations to keep in mind when installing commercial concrete driveways:

1. The base for a commercial concrete driveway should be a minimum of 6 inches thick, made up of an aggregate base material and fully compacted. Excavation for the driveway, therefore, needs to be the depth of the concrete plus 6 inches more, to accommodate for the base.
2. A reinforcement layer of wire mesh or rebar above the base layer (1 inch from the bottom of the slab) is necessary to keep cracks from starting and expanding.
3. Commercial concrete driveways should be at least 6 inches deep.  Some local codes will require 8 inches.  Check with your local zoning and codes.
4. If using fiber-reinforced concrete, the same depth of your pour is required.
5. Expansion joints are necessary when concrete slabs touch fixed objects like foundations, street curbs, etc.
6. Keep your eye on weather!  Ideal conditions are 55 degrees, overcast and high humidity.  Don’t pour concrete in extreme hot or cold weather.