BLOCK PAVING

Block Paving is a stylish, low cost way to create feature or utility areas in your outdoor space. It can be used for garden pathways, patios and driveways to name a few. Because there is such a wide variety of colours, textures and formats available, block paving can create almost any type of look and are more versatile than other hard surfaces. Laid correctly, block paving can last a lifetime and are very low maintenance. When choosing pavers for your project, take a look at your house and garden and select pavers that will tie in with the look. For example, if you have a contemporary home, large format concrete or sandstone pavers will look great. A more traditional home may benefit from classic brick paving.

STRENGTH AND PATTERNS

As part of the garden, pavers should be at least 40mm thick and be laid on a bed that is also at least 40mm thick. If you are using pavers in your driveway, you will require stronger pavers that are laid on a bed that is at least 100mm thick. The extra thickness is required for structural integrity. Block paving can be laid in several patterns including basketweave, herringbone, radial, stretcher bond, a combination of stretchers and headers and also in large paver patterns.

BLOCK PAVING DESIGNS

This is where the fun starts! Block paving designs are unlimited. Each type of block paving stone or brick is available in a range of complementary colours and textures, by rotating the block in a different direction it can appear a different shade of colour. With the addition of octants or circles, paving features can be created. This can be complimented with the use of kerbs and edgings to create beautiful block paving designs & patterns.

Herringbone Paving Patterns

Herringbone paving patterns are constructed from 2:1 blocks. This means the bricks are twice as long as they are wide. Interlocked and laid as 90° herringbone or 45° herringbone the layout can be enhanced with subtle colour changes in blocks and or the use of pattern features such as circular or octant paving. 45° extended herringbone is generally used on larger areas to enhance the block paving patterns aesthetics.

Stretcher Bond & Basket Weave Paving Patterns

Stretcher bond and basket weave paving patterns are used for pathways or patio areas with light foot traffic. These block paving patterns can be combined with octant and circle features to create beautiful designs.

Random Stretcher Bond

Random stretcher bond is a block paving pattern utilising several different size bricks. This pattern is widely used with Marshalls Tegula and Marshalls Argent paving.

MATERIALS

There is a wide array of materials available within block paving including brick, clay, terracotta, concrete (concrete can also imitate more expensive finishes such as sandstone for a significantly cheaper cost), slate, timber, cut or split stone (such as granite, limestone or sandstone) and ceramic. However, no matter which material is chosen, the most important part of any block paving job is the preparation of the base.

Importance of a Good Base

Using RDJ & Co (Wrexham) Ltd to complete your block paving job will ensure that the base is laid correctly, ensuring that the pavers will not move over time. The paving base may be either a concrete slab or compressed sand and road base. Drainage is an issue – concrete especially will not let water through – before installing block paving we will check with the local council first to ensure that you meet their regulations when it comes to hardscaping, and to see if you need to obtain permits before commencing the project.