How to Extend Driveway with Concrete

How to Extend Driveway with Concrete: Proper Connection Guide

Extending a driveway requires connecting the new concrete to the old. Drill into the old driveway and epoxy rebar dowels in. This "ties" the new extension to the old so they don't drift apart. Understanding proper connection prevents separation and ensures a seamless extension.

The Problem Without Connection

Without proper connection:

• Separate slabs: New and old concrete are separate
• Drift apart: Slabs can move independently
• Gap forms: Gap can develop between slabs
• Poor appearance: Looks like two separate driveways

The Solution: Rebar Dowels

Rebar dowels tie slabs together:

• Mechanical connection: Physically connects slabs
• Prevents separation: Keeps slabs together
• Transfer loads: Distributes loads between slabs
• Seamless extension: Acts as one continuous driveway

How to Install Dowels

Step-by-step process:

1. Drill holes: Drill holes into old driveway (typically 2-3 inches deep)
2. Clean holes: Remove all dust from holes
3. Insert rebar: Place rebar dowels in holes (half in old, half in new)
4. Epoxy in place: Fill holes with epoxy to secure rebar
5. Pour new concrete: Pour new concrete around dowels

Why Epoxy?

Epoxy is essential:

• Bonds rebar: Secures rebar in old concrete
• Prevents movement: Keeps dowels from loosening
• Strong connection: Creates permanent bond
• Required: Rebar won't stay without epoxy

Dowels Specifications

Typical dowel specs:

• Size: #4 or #5 rebar (1/2 or 5/8 inch)
• Length: Typically 12-18 inches (half in each slab)
• Spacing: Every 12-18 inches along joint
• Depth: 2-3 inches into old concrete

The Bottom Line

To extend a driveway properly, drill into the old driveway and epoxy rebar dowels in. This ties the new extension to the old so they don't drift apart. Without dowels, the slabs will separate. With dowels, they act as one continuous driveway. Always use epoxy to secure dowels—rebar won't stay without it.

Need to extend your driveway? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We properly connect new extensions to existing driveways with rebar dowels for seamless results.