Block Paving in Eaton Ford

A good block paved driveway in Eaton Ford should be easy to use and easy to look after. Choosing a block with a mid tone, such as a brindle, autumn blend or mid grey, helps hide everyday dirt and tyre marks, while very light or very dark blocks show more. A contrasting border gives a sharp outline and helps define where the drive stops and a neighbour's starts.

If anyone in your household uses a wheelchair, pushchair or walking aid, a flat, chamfer free or lightly chamfered block can give a smoother surface than a heavily textured one. Tumbled blocks look attractive but have more pronounced joints, which some people find less comfortable underfoot.

Herringbone is the best pattern where cars turn, stretcher bond is a good choice for a straight drive or path, and basketweave suits small areas such as the space outside the front door.

The cost of a block paving driveway here depends on:

• Levels and any drainage channel needed at the low point
• Boundary edging between your drive and a neighbour's
• Removing and disposing of the old surface
• Block range, colour and border details
• Access for machinery and deliveries

To keep it looking good, sweep regularly and top up joints with kiln-dried sand if they drop. Treat oil drips quickly with a suitable cleaner, as older stains are harder to shift. A sealer can make cleaning easier, though it is not essential. Weeds usually take hold in dirty joints, so keeping them swept and full is the most effective way to keep them away without chemicals.

Before the work starts, it is helpful to move pots, bins and anything stored along the side of the house. We also ask where your water stopcock and any outside taps are, so they can be protected or raised to the new level if the drive height changes.