FAQ’s

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How deep down do you dig?
Firstly we dig down the depth of the block & sand or Concrete, which ever surface you have chosen. Then as deep as required according to the ground conditions. For Block paving a deeper excavation is required than for concrete. It is very unusual if we don’t excavate to a minimum of 25 cm for block paving. We always use at least one Geotextile Membrane in our base construction for Block, this is usually not required with concrete unless very poor ground conditions such as sodden clay. This gives the base more stability and better binding of the hardcore fill material.

2. Will you be able to widen my existing driveway?
Yes no problem, we can product match existing block paving and flags to suit and with concrete imprint we can match the existing pattern and colour and even “tie in” the pattern with the existing in most cases.

3. What about drainage problems?
There are several methods of dealing with drainage problems: from various open gullies, slotted drains, French drains and modern plastic drainage systems. Our surveyor will investigate drainage methods and choose the correct type for your installation.

4. How messy of a job is it?
From the offset we tackle this problem in a professional way. During the initial “dig out” we always endeavor to use modern machinery which ensures the work is speedily executed. The “spoils” (earth removed) where we can are removed instantly by the use of a “grab wagon” rather than to have a “skip container” hanging around. We always aim that on day one to dig out and move the waste, stone fill and compact the base. This of course may vary on the overall size of the work involved.

5. Do we require edgings?
Edgings come in various materials and many different designs and colours and can serve different purposes. The most common use of an edging is for soil or grass retention. A good quality decorative edging gives a neat appearance and a clean sharp finish to any surface.
With block paving the edge is an integral part of a path or drive giving the block integrity and strength; restraining outward thrust pressure, therefore avoiding movement of the block surface. It is well worth spending the extra money and making sure that you fit the correct edging kerbs.

6. Can I get matching steps?
Matching steps are available in both Pattern Imprinted Concrete and Block Paving. Steps can be square or circular or a mixture of both; in so many sizes. Please see our gallerys for many examples.

7. How long of a delay is there from order to installation?
Delays in installation do vary according to seasons. In general we try to keep our waiting period to between four-six weeks and of course at times we do have delays due to bad weather.

8. What choice of patterns and colour do I have?
The choice of colour and patterns are numerous and the permutations of patterns and colours are plentiful. This is why we always use a design surveyor who will give you expert advice on your choice of colour and style. We can style a drive, path or patio to suite your tastes to match the character of the property or whether you wish it to make “a statement” or just to mellow in with its surrounding. One thing is for sure – no matter what choice you will have a driveway that will give you a homecoming welcome that will last for years and years.

9. How long is the driveway guaranteed for?
All our workmanship is guaranteed for a period of 5 years and manufactures guarantees on products vary for example Marshalls guarantee their product for 10 years; whilst Tobermore products carry a 25 year guarantee. P.I.C.s concrete products also have a 5 year guarantee.

10. What maintenance is required?
A minimum amount of maintenance is required on all path and driveway surfaces. It may be that once a year you just wash your driveway down using a pressure washer; or like so many people use our specialist cleaning service.

11. How long is it before I can use my driveway?
If your driveway is a block paved driveway you will be able to drive your car on immediately after we have vibrated the blocks into position and sanded the joints, this final sanding process is the last stage of the job and generally takes 1 – 2 hours, however this process can only be completed in dry weather, which may mean returning to the job in dry weather.
If your driveway is constructed with pattern imprinted concrete, it can be used for vehicles four days after being sealed, however this process can only be completed in dry weather.

12. What about weed growth?
With P.I.C. surfaces weed growth is eliminated, on block weed growth does not come from below the block but from surface seeding. This can be minimized by spraying with a weed killer twice a year and keeping the block and sand well sealed.