Paving, Patios and Driveways Frequently Asked Questions

Installing a new patio or driveway usually takes between 3 and 10 days, depending on the size, materials, and weather conditions. Smaller patios can be finished in as little as 2 to 4 days, while larger driveways that use block paving or resin-bound surfaces can take up to 10 days. Preparation tasks such as excavation, ground levelling, and sub-base installation can also affect the project's timeline.

The best time of the year to install paving is during late spring to early autumn, typically between April and September. These months have more stable, dry weather conditions, which are ideal for laying paving materials and allowing them to set properly.

Summer is particularly ideal for paving due to the longer daylight hours and faster drying times. Scheduling your paving work during this period ensures you receive better results, and we can also reduce the likelihood of weather-related delays or complications during the installation.

Find out more about our patio laying service.

Choosing between concrete, block paving, and slabs for patios and driveways depends on your budget, style preferences, and maintenance needs.

Concrete is cost-effective, durable and ideal for driveways that need strength. Block paving has a flexible design and is easy to repair since the individual blocks can be swapped out and replaced. Slabs provide a clean, modern look and come in various textures and sizes.

When deciding on which material to use, it's best to consider your drainage and maintenance needs. Block paving and slabs may need occasional weed control, while concrete needs sealing to prevent cracks.

The best base for a patio is a well-compacted sub-base made from Type 1 MOT (crushed stone or hardcore), topped with a layer of sharp sand or mortar. This is because it provides a stable and durable base that supports the paving and stops it from sinking or moving over time. 

The sub-base needs to be at least 100mm thick for patios and properly compacted using a vibrating plate. We can install a solid, well-prepared base to keep your patio level, durable, and weather-resistant.

Yes, your patio will need drainage due to the UK's frequent rainy weather. Proper drainage prevents the water from pooling on the surface and causing slipping hazards, damp issues or long-term damage to the paving and foundation. You can have a slight slope, drainage channel or soakaway system installed to re-direct the water away from your property.

Yes, we can fully customise the shape and layout of your patio to suit your garden’s size, style, and functionality. Whether you prefer a traditional design or something more unique, like curved edges or multi-level sections, we can tailor the layout to your vision.

Our flexible designs allow us to maximise your space and create a patio that complements your home. We ensure you receive precise, durable, and customised finishes that meet your needs.

The maximum weight a new driveway can hold depends on the materials used and the quality of the base. Typically, a standard driveway can support vehicles weighing up to 2.5 tonnes, which is suitable for most cars and small vans.

For heavier vehicles, such as motorhomes or commercial vans, the driveway needs to be reinforced with a deeper, well-compacted sub-base and stronger surface materials like reinforced concrete or thicker block paving to accommodate the weight. 

Find out more about our driveway laying service.

In most cases, you don’t need planning permission for a new driveway if you use materials like gravel or permeable block paving, or if the surface drains water into a lawn or a soakaway system.

However, if you’re covering more than five square metres with non-permeable materials and there’s no proper drainage, planning permission may be required. This is to help manage the surface water and reduce the risk of flooding.

Additionally, properties in conservation areas or with a listed status may have extra restrictions. Therefore, it's best to check with your local planning authority before starting any driveway installation project.

The waiting time before using a newly laid driveway depends on the materials used. For concrete driveways, it’s recommended to wait at least 7 days before driving on them since it allows the concrete to cure and gain strength. Asphalt driveways usually need 3 to 5 days before you can use them, depending on the weather. Block paving can typically be used right after it's installed, but it's best to wait 24 to 48 hours to allow any jointing sand or sealing to settle.

Block paving is extremely durable and can last around 20 to 25 years or more with the proper care. Its lifespan largely depends on the quality of the materials and whether it has a strong sub-base and regular maintenance. Simple upkeep like removing weeds, sweeping, pressure washing, and re-sanding the joints can help maintain both the paving's appearance and strength.

Find out more about block paving in Worthing.

Yes, weeds can grow between paving blocks if the joints aren't properly filled or maintained. Wind-blown seeds can settle in gaps filled with sand or dirt, leading to unwanted growth. However, regular maintenance can significantly reduce weed growth.

Our sub-bases and edge restraints can also help prevent gaps and shifting during the installation process, which discourages weeds from growing through.

For added protection, some homeowners choose to seal the paving surface, which blocks moisture and makes it harder for weeds to grow through.

Block paving is easy to repair or replace when it becomes damaged, making it a durable and versatile choice. This is because the damaged blocks can be lifted up and replaced without affecting the surrounding area.

Our team can carefully lift the affected blocks, adjust or repair the base if needed, and then relay the original or new blocks to match the existing pattern. This straightforward repair process helps maintain both the appearance and integrity of your block paving.