Block Paving Installation Process

How we install a block paved driveway or patio, start to finish

We start with site preparation and design — evaluating the area, discussing block styles, colours and patterns, and agreeing a layout that suits your space. Once the design is set, we excavate the site and remove existing material, then lay a compacted hardcore sub-base to support the blocks and stop them shifting or sinking later. Edging such as kerbs or borders goes in next, followed by the blocks themselves, laid to precise measurements in your chosen pattern. Finally, we run a vibrating plate compactor over the finished surface and brush kiln-dried sand into the joints to lock everything together, then carry out a full site clean-up so there's no mess left behind. We stand by our workmanship — if anything isn't right, we'll put it right at no extra charge.

The sub-base is what actually determines how well a block paved driveway or patio holds up over time. The most common material is MOT Type 1 — a crushed stone aggregate graded from 40mm down to dust — laid at least 100-150mm deep over level ground. For larger areas we sometimes add a geotextile membrane beneath the sub-base, which helps prevent frost heave, stops weeds pushing up through the joints, and reduces water absorption that can otherwise lead to cracking or movement.

Foundation depth depends mainly on how the area will be used. Domestic patios and pathways generally need shallower foundations — around 6 inches — provided the ground is properly compacted, while driveways and anywhere that sees regular vehicle traffic need deeper foundations, typically up to 12 inches, so the surface can handle the weight of cars and vans without shifting. Good drainage around the work area matters too, particularly in the North East's wetter months — get that wrong and you risk water pooling and an uneven finish later on. Contact us for a free consultation and fast quote on your block paving project.