Just wanted to say firstly how helpful this site has been with planning my new driveway, I dont think I would of attempted it if I hadn't been able to find so much information here..
Anyway on to business
Over the weekend myself and my housemate dug up 28m2 of tarmac from my parking spaces at the front of my house (i can not explain how much i ache) Subsequently I have been able to fully check the sub layer which in my ignorance looks like a base of concrete then about 40mm compacted sand and pebbles. My proposal now is to do a whacked down layer of sharp sand. Thinking about 20mm and then topping this with 20mm leveled straight edged 10mm pea shingle.
Does this sound like it might be ok?? As they are just parking spaces they dont get heavy traffic as such and I understand there will be a degree of maintenance required in terms of racking. I've read on the relevant pages on here and feel that it should be ok but just wanted to check with the experts before I place any orders.
Thanks.
Edit: Forgot to mention that I also angle ground the pavement edge of the tarmac to create a straight edge against which I plan on cementing in some edging to create a retaining edge for the shingle, does this sound right?
The sand and shingle will mix, is the only trouble. Sand only stays compacted if there's something firm on top, such as paver blocks or paving slabs.
If the 'sand and pebbles' is above the concrete layer, consider taking it out and having instead 60mm MOT and then 20mm of 10mm shingle (don't order it as pea shingle as you may get the spherical stuff). The MOT can be compacted properly and will remain a distinct layer for much longer. Keep the wacker plate long enough to compact the finished shingle as well.
I really dont think I have the strength mental or otherwise to lift the pebbles and sand would it be better or worse to lay straight on top of this bypassing the additional sand layer?
If it's already well compacted then yes, provided it all works for your finished height. Just make sure you keep the shingle layer as thin as possible so that's not like walking on a beach!
