How to Lay Beautiful Block Paving in 3 Simple Steps

Block paving is traditionally used for driveways and are many design opportunities due to an
array of colors and types available. There are 3 basic steps to laying block paving; preparing
the site, laying, and jointing, all of which will be addressed in this paving guide.

Block Paving

Preparing The Site

  • To ensure longevity and durability, your paving needs to be laid on a solid and even base with sufficient drainage.
  • Begin my removing vegetation and topsoil to a depth of 200mm-250mm.
  • Mark this area with pegs to the height of the desired surface level of your paving, with a fall of 1:80 to allow for sufficient drainage and 150mm below the damp proof course.
  • Rake this area to create an even surface, before compacting with a plate compactor.
  • Install edge restraints around this area using block kerbs or concrete edging by bedding them into 100m of concrete at a 45 degree haunch to prevent movement.
  • If required, install underground drainage, gratings or manhole covers.
  • Next, back-fill the area with 150mm of MoT/crusher run.
  • Apply 50mm of slightly damp sand on top and compact with a plate compactor.
  • Add a second layer of sharp sand 20mm deep and level it to the required gradient using string lines and screening rails.

Laying

  • Begin laying concrete block paving from the bottom of a slope, starting at a right angle or straight edge. Work from several packs at a time to ensure an even distribution of colour, especially when using a mixed sixed product.
  • Place paving blocks on top of the bedding or laying course in your desired pattern around 4-5mm above the finished level. Make sure the blocks are laid tightly together, in direct contact with adjacent blocks.
  • When the full blocks are laid, cut any blocks required for infill pieces or edges using a block splitter.
  • Sweep the area and compact the paving using a plate compactor.

Jointing

  • It is advised that you joint the block paving during dry periods.
  • Apply a kiln dried sand to the paved area and brush it into the joints, ensuring all spaces are fully filled.
  • Use a plate compactor on the paving to push the sand into the joints.
  • Fill any missed gaps in the jointing and compact again.
  • Be aware that the sand in the joints may need to be topped up for the first few months.

Block paving really can be laid in 3 steps. For a perfectly paved driveway, firstly, prepare the
site so that your paving is laid on a firm, level and well-drained base. Next, tightly lay your
paving in your design before compacting. Finally, joint the paving by brushing sand into the
joints, and voila, your block paving paradise awaits.

This post was written by Simply Paving , a leading online paving supplier with expertise in
paving, DIY and design.

Leave a Comment