Block Paving in Great Linford

Great Linford sits beside the Grand Union Canal, with a small historic core around the parish church, the manor and its park. Around that older centre, much of the housing dates from the early years of the new city. Many of those homes still have the block paving or concrete that was laid when they were built, which by now can look tired, uneven and patchy in colour.

Faded paving is not always a sign that the drive has failed. Concrete blocks lose some of their surface colour over time as the fine top layer wears and weathers. If the blocks are still level and tight, a thorough clean, fresh joint sand and a suitable sealer can bring back a richer tone. If the drive has sunk, spread or rocked under foot, the base needs attention, and that means lifting the blocks.

When we rebuild a drive here, we look carefully at drainage. Clay soils and lower ground near the canal can keep water close to the surface after heavy rain. A firm, free draining sub-base, well compacted and laid to the right falls, helps the blocks stay level for many years.

• Clean, re-sand and seal where the base is sound
• Lift and rebuild where the drive has moved
• Falls planned to carry rain away from the house

Edging is checked on every job. Original edging is often missing or broken, which lets blocks slip sideways into lawns and borders. New concrete edging or kerbs give the drive a firm frame. The area around the manor and church is a conservation area, so if your home sits within it, check with Milton Keynes City Council before altering walls or boundaries.

Tree roots can also lift paving, particularly where trees planted when the estates were built have now grown large close to the drive. We look at where roots run before deciding how deep to dig and whether a root barrier is sensible.