Block Paved Driveway | Manchester

Block Paving Driveway Installation – Middleton, Manchester

We recently completed a full driveway transformation at a property in Middleton, Manchester, replacing an old, weathered concrete surface with a stunning new block paved design that instantly boosted kerb appeal.

Before

The original driveway was cracked, stained and lacked structure. Overgrown foliage and uneven levels made the space look untidy and limited usable parking space.

Removal & Excavation of Existing Surface 

We began by removing the old concrete driveway and clearing away the existing front garden area. This included breaking up the worn-out concrete surface and lifting any turf, plants, or loose debris to fully prepare the space for excavation. Once cleared, we excavated the entire area to the necessary depth to allow for a solid sub-base and block installation. All soil and spoil were safely removed from site, leaving a clean and level excavation ready for groundwork.

Sub-Base Installation

We installed a strong and compacted MOT Type 1 hardcore sub-base across the entire footprint of the driveway. This layer provides essential support and helps prevent sinking or shifting of the blocks. A heavy-duty weed control membrane was laid over the sub-base. This step is crucial to prevent the growth of weeds from underneath, helping to maintain the integrity and appearance of the new driveway. We then applied a sharp sand layer evenly across the membrane and screeded it to exact levels. This bedding layer ensures that the blocks sit perfectly and stay aligned over time.

Driveway Installation

We installed a durable charcoal edging around the perimeter of the driveway. This defined the boundary and added a crisp, clean finish, while also providing structural support to hold the internal block pattern securely in place. Using high-quality blocks in brindle, we laid the main surface in an eye-catching 45-degree herringbone pattern. This pattern not only looks striking but also enhances strength, especially for vehicle traffic.

Finishing Touches

Every edge and joint was cut precisely too ensure a tight, professional finish. We used high-accuracy tools to shape the blocks so they fit snugly against the edging and around existing features like inspection covers. Finally, we applied kiln-dried sand to all the joints and compacted the entire area using a plate compactor. This locks the blocks into position, stabilising the surface and creating a strong, long-lasting finish.