6 Things to Consider Before Installing A Block Paved Driveway

 

Installing a new block paved driveway needn’t be a daunting task.

So long as you plan everything before commencing the installation, the end result will be a stunning driveway that gives your property serious kerb appeal and is the envy of all your neighbours.

In this latest article we’re looking at 6 things you should consider before you install a new block paved driveway.

 

 

1. How Will You Deal with Drainage?

 

To comply with the 2008 SUDs regulations, you’ll need to carefully plan how you’ll deal with surface water runoff.

In most cases this will mean the installation of a linear drain and soakaway system.

When installing a soakaway, you’ll need to calculate the volume needed to effectively manage heavy downpours.

Its also highly recommended that you install your soakaway at least 5m away from buildings and walls.

Rather than installing a soakaway, in some instances you may be able to channel water to a plant bed that will allow water to permeate back through to the local water table.

However you manage water, it’s important that it is properly planned before going ahead and installing your block paving.

 

 

2. Will You Require Any Additional Features?

 

There are many complimentary features that can be installed alongside a block paved driveway to increase both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

You could build a decorative brick wall or fence to provide privacy and define your boundary edge?

You could also use raised kerbs or another form of raised edge such as reclaimed sleepers to create interesting features such as raised beds to add character to your driveway.

You may even want to soften the look of your driveway by laying a new lawn or by placing plant pots or trees in certain areas of your drive.

These additional features will perfectly compliment your driveway and create a unique look for your property.

 

 

3. What Block Paving Type Will You Choose?

 

Today there is a such a huge range of styles, colours and finishes to block paving that you may find it difficult to decide which one to choose.

No matter the style of your property, there is something for everyone. Modern properties may benefit from something like the Marshalls Argent, while more traditional properties may suit the tumbled look of Tegulas.

But that’s just the very tip of the iceberg when it comes to choosing block paving.

It’s always best to look through brochures from as many manufacturers as possible and request samples of potential choices. This will help you to get an idea of how your driveway may look and to get a better feel for the texture a block has.

Whichever block you choose, make sure you take the time to consider the many different options.

 

 

4. What Laying Pattern Will You Choose?

 

Once you’ve decide upon your favourite block, the next choice to be made is to choose which pattern you would like your paving to be laid in.

Some varieties of block paving can have many different laying patterns, while it may only be possible to lay others in a couple of different patterns.

Check with your manufacturer to see which patterns you chosen block can be laid in.

For standard block paving, you can choose between 45 and 90-degree herringbone, stretcherbond, or basketweave laying patterns.

You may also have the ability to add in other patterns such as circle, hexagon or octagon packs to add interesting features or you could use a contrasting colour or block type to create a unique border pattern.

The choices are virtually endless and are only limited by your imagination.

 

 

5. How Will You Prevent Weeds?

 

The last thing anyone wants is to have to regularly de-weed their block paving.

Preventing this from happening can be achieved in a number of ways.

Firstly, installing a weed membrane underneath the sub base is vital in preventing weeds from growing up through your paving.

Secondly, always use a weed free joining sand, such as Dansand, to help to prevent weed growth in the joins of your paving.

These are the areas that are most susceptible to weed growth and its important to use a jointing sand that prevents weeds – the additional cost is well worth it as it will save you many hours of back-breaking weeding.

Finally, you may even wish to seal your block paving, using a sealant from manufacturers such as Resiblock.

Not only will sealing your paving prevent weeds but it will also help protect and increase the lifespan of your block paving.

 

 

6. How Much Parking Space Will You Need?

 

In today’s society, many households own more than one vehicle.

When planning your driveway, it’s vital to ensure that you leave enough room to park your vehicles safely off the road.

Thinking long term is also advisable if you anticipate your children learning to drive at some point in the future and allowing additional space for this would be a good idea.

Having sufficient off-road parking space for multiple vehicles is a huge selling point for any property and the investment of having a block paved driveway installation pays off in the long term.

 

 

Conclusion

 

Planning your driveway to ensure you tick all the right boxes isn’t always an easy task.

If you are looking for professional help why not give us a call?

We serve the majority of Essex and using our knowledge and experience we’ve created hundreds of unique driveways all over the county.

We’d be happy to discuss ideas with you and come up with a suitable plan for your driveway to ensure it meets your requirements, enhances the kerb appeal and value of your property.

If you are looking for the best block paving installation service in Essex, call us now on 01245 697 688 or fill out this form and we’ll call you.

If you have any questions on the topic of block paving, why not leave us a comment below? We’d be glad to help.