Steep Driveway Nightmare

12 years ago

I'm the 3rd owner of this 1960's rambler in Atlanta and I have a driveway that is so long a steep that I can't stand it. The house is well below street level, and sits only 60' back from the street. I've only lived here since May and didn't realize before living in it what a nuisance it would be. Does anyone know of a remedy, like entering from the street on the other side, perhaps creating a sharp curve at the top and then bringing the driveway back across in front of the house ending at the bottom. Is this a grading issue? A landscape issue? Or since the house is so close to the street, is it a lost cause?
I'm at a loss...

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Comments (4)

apple_pie_order
12 years ago
Do you have a lot plan with distances and elevations? You'll probably need a local landscape architect. Before you spend money on designs, try visiting city hall to get copies of the building permits and anything that seems relevant, such as regulations about driveways. Be very nice to the building permit people, they can help you out.

The wooded lot and house are very attractive.
Gracie Morgan
9 years ago
Love those steps built into the driveway! It's possibly the driveway could come in at a different angle. Hard to tell from the photo. But I suspect it would be very expensive. Good luck!
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greenerpast
9 years ago
With whomever you decide to use, make sure they spell out in detail what the plan is to keep water from coursing through where you park your cars. Couldn't see if it is a completely open carport or just open in the front, but either way it would not be fun to wade into your car during a heavy downpour. If you currently have no water running into that area, then someone took great care planning the grading. Water and erosion issues can spell disaster in a hurry.

Maybe a neighboring home has a similar situation? Or drive through another hilly neighborhood for ideas...

if your lot is wide, you could possibly join a less steep and more diagonal driveway to the existing one. Like the previous post said, the stairs are a really cool and unique feature that add to your home's appeal. Again, pick someone who knows what they are doing!
apple_pie_order
9 years ago
2013 post