how to lay block paving
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Block paving is widely used for paving outdoor spaces, including driveways, pathways, etc. It consists of every block or brick laid on sand or grit in a particular design. The blocks are held in place by adjacent blocks within a perimeter set in mortar. With a wide range of block paving products and fittings available at various platforms, including M&C Paving Northeast, you can make an informed decision for your outside space.

If you have decided to build it yourself, you need to know how to lay the block paving appropriately and achieve the exceptional results you were dreaming of in your home or garden. This blog post will help you build a driveway or pathway by guiding you throughout the entire process.

Required Materials and Tools

Before you take on a block paving project, you need to gather all the required materials and tools, which will help streamline the process. The enlisted materials and tools that you require are given below:

Materials

Making a plan for your outdoor space is a smart idea that helps you help you define the dimensions, where you can lay pavers or which materials are used.

  • Sub-base Aggregate
  • Paving Sealer
  • Block Paving Bricks
  • MOT Type 1
  • Cement
  • Edging Stones
  • Sharp Sand or Grit

Tools

You can use multiple tools to lay the pavers, most of which you can acquire from your garage, shed, or residence.

  • Chalk Line
  • Rubber Mallet
  • Wheelbarrow
  • Jointing Tool
  • Spirit Level
  • Shovel or Mini Digger
  • Trowel
  • Plate Compactor

Pros and Cons of Block Paving

Block paving provides innumerable perks to homeowners. If you want to revitalise your garden and avoid stress, there are multiple reasons why block paving is your solution.

Pros

  • Aesthetically Versatile
  • Improve kerb appeal
  • Low maintenance
  • Durable
  • Eco-friendly

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Time-Consuming
  • Maintenance
  • Freeze-Thaw Weathering
  • Drainage

Different Considerations Prior to Starting Block Paving

You must consider different considerations before installing blocked paves in driveways, patios, and pathways.

  • Begin with a simple area plan and decide where to lay the block paving.
  • Measure all the dimensions for your outdoor space and make a design on paper.
  • Outline the underground services so that excavation does not affect them.
  • Get permission for the new hard surface on impermeable properties larger than 5 m2.
  • Consider the area’s topography and where surface water will likely drain naturally.
  • Use a permeable geotextile separation membrane below the sub-base.

Lay Down the Block Paving

Lay Down the Block Paving – Installation Process

Once you plan to lay the block pavers outside the area, you must prepare the surface and wear proper safety gear during the entire process.

Design

Sketch the pattern on paper after taking measurements that match your needs. Your selection will depend on whether you want to replace or repair the existing driveway or install a new block pavement to refresh your exterior space. Pick the colours and finishes that match the style of your home for block paving.

Excavation

You can wisely outline the space that needs to be excavated and dig out the area to the required depth. Ensure the driveway is 150mm below the damp proof course of adjacent buildings. To support the drainage system, create a slight slope with a 1:40 fall through the width of the drive and a 1:80 fall alongside the length.

Edge Restraints

To create the concrete foundation, you must blend 1 part of cement with 6 parts ballast. The mixture will be applied to a 100mm depth, and an edge restraint will be positioned on top at the required level. You need to use a string line and spirit level to ensure this is flat.

Mortar the kerb units to the foundation using a towel and mallet and then haunch the back so concrete reaches halfway up the kerb.

block paving

Subbase

The sub-base acts as a backup stone layer. To ensure your paving supports the weight of people or vehicles, you must apply a layer more than 100 mm deep. One way to do this is to use a 75mm layer, whack it with a compactor plate, and apply another 75mm layer. For the sub-base, utilise MOT Type 1 Roadstone—made from crushed granite, limestone, or basalt with stone sizes not exceeding 40mm.

Screeding

Lay a layer of damp, sharp sand 50mm deep and compact this using a vibrating plate. Then, apply a second course of sharp sand at 20mm depth. Now, level the sharp sand, utilising screeding rails, string lines, and a straight edge.

Paving Installation

When laying block paving on a slope, start from the bottom rather than at a right angle or along a straight edge. Place blocks on the bedding course, making sure they are approximately 45mm above the required finished level. As you work your way up the slope, check your pattern against the design.

Fill the gaps after the blocks are in place. Cut the blocks to size using a block splitter or a diamond disc saw. It is best to avoid cutting any block less than a third of its existing size.

Finishing Touches

Clean the drive methodically after each block is in place. Then, apply kiln-dried sand and sweep the whole drive to ensure sand falls down between the joints. Compact the drive with a vibrating plate, sweep kiln-dried sand over it, and compress again. Repeat this process until there is no space between the joints.

Conclusion

Investing in block paving can be a great decision whether you renovate your existing one or want to install a new one. This type is preferred because it helps create sturdy and eye-catching outdoor surfaces. To ensure an effective block paving project, you need to follow proper guidelines that utilise specialised tools and materials and suitable installation methods. A perfect base that consists of spacing, arrangement, and compaction is necessary for a sturdy space.