Concrete Driveway Thickness: What Homeowners Really Need

Concrete thickness is one of the biggest factors in how long a driveway lasts. Thinner slabs save money upfront but often cost more later.

Typical Residential Driveways

Most homes do well with 4 inches of concrete. This works for everyday cars and light use.

Driveways That Need More Strength

If you park heavier vehicles, a thicker slab makes sense:

• Pickup trucks
• Delivery vans
• RVs or trailers

In these cases, 5 to 6 inches is usually recommended.

Thickness Alone Isn’t Enough

Even thick concrete will fail if:

• The ground wasn’t compacted properly
• The base is uneven
• Drainage wasn’t addressed

A good contractor explains thickness based on how you actually use your driveway—not a one-size-fits-all approach.