Driveways
Preparing the ground for a new driveway
Ask any experienced installer and they'll tell you the same thing: a driveway is only as good as what's underneath. Here's what proper groundwork involves, and why it's worth asking about when you compare quotes.
Survey and setting levels
Before any digging, we measure up, check falls, find where water will go and look at the height of the damp-proof course. This is where problems like puddling and water running towards the house are designed out.
Excavation
Old surfaces, soil and roots are dug out to the depth the new driveway needs. The right depth depends on the ground and the surface you're having. All waste is removed from site.
Sub-base
A layer of crushed stone is spread and compacted in stages to create a firm, stable platform. For permeable surfaces, a suitable open-graded material is used so water can drain through.
Edging and restraints
Kerbs or edging are set firmly to hold the surface in place. Without them, block paving can spread and resin or tarmac edges can crumble.
Drainage
Channel drains, soakaways or connections are installed at this stage, ready for the final surface.
Then the surface
Only once the base is right do we lay the resin, block paving, tarmac or gravel. It's the part you see, but it's the groundwork that keeps it looking good — and every job is backed by our 5-year workmanship guarantee.
