Understanding Driveway Slope

The slope of a driveway is crucial for its usability and safety. A slope that’s too steep may cause water drainage issues or be difficult for vehicles to navigate. To calculate the slope, you need two key values: the rise (vertical height of the driveway) and the run (horizontal length). Our Driveway Slope Calculator makes this calculation quick and easy.

Why Is Slope Important?

• Safety: A slope that is too steep can be dangerous for vehicles and pedestrians.
• Drainage: Proper slope ensures water runs off and doesn’t pool on the driveway.
• Building Code Compliance: Many areas have regulations for maximum allowable slopes.

How to Use the Calculator

1. Input the Rise: Measure the vertical height of the driveway.
2. Input the Run: Measure the horizontal length of the driveway.
3. Get Results: The calculator instantly displays the slope in percentage, ratio, and angle.

Formulas to Calculate Your Driveway Slope

Slope as a Percentage

The slope percentage is calculated by dividing the rise by the run and multiplying by 100:

$\text{Slope (\%)} = \left( \frac{\text{Rise}}{\text{Run}} \right) \times 100$

Example Calculation:

For a rise of 2 feet and a run of 10 feet:

$\text{Slope (\%)} = \left( \frac{\text{2}}{\text{10}} \right) \times 100$

$\text{Slope (\%)} = \text{20}$ %

Slope as a Ratio

The slope ratio expresses the relationship between rise and run as Rise:Run

$\text{Slope (Ratio)} = \text{Rise} : \text{Run}$

Example Calculation:

For a rise of 2 feet and a run of 10 feet:

$\text{Slope (Ratio)} = \text{2:10 or simplified to 1:5}$

Slope as an Angle

To express the slope as an angle in degrees, use the arctangent function:

$\text{Slope (Angle)} = \arctan \left( \frac{\text{Rise}}{\text{Run}} \right)$

Example Calculation:

For a rise of 2 feet and a run of 10 feet:

$\text{Slope (Angle)} = \arctan \left( \frac{\text{2}}{\text{10}} \right)$

$\text{Slope (Angle)} = \text{arctan(0.2)}$

$\text{Slope (Angle)} = 11.31^\circ$