What are the pros and cons of block paving?

So, you’re planning a driveway upgrade? You’ve researched the options and you like the look of block paving. Before you make a decision let’s get some expert advice on the pros and cons of block paving.

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What are the options for block paving?

Block paving companies will also give you different options based on layout, colour, and material.

Some popular block paving laying patterns include:

• Stretcher bond

• Herringbone

• Chequer

• Basketweave

In terms of colour, you can choose any colour you like from classic greys and browns to bold reds, blues, and combination designs.

Material choices

Block paving is usually made from materials such as:

• Clay

• Concrete

• Stone

• Brick

Different materials provide different appearances and differing levels of protection and longevity.

Ask your block paving installer before you begin to ensure that you choose the right type of block paving for your requirements.

Find block paving companies near me

Block paving comes in a wide range of colours, patterns and finishes, making it a fantastic way to transform your outside space. Here, we’ll explore everything to do with finding block paving companies near you — from what they do to how much they tend to charge.

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Is block paving worth it?

The simple answer is, yes! Block paving is an excellent material for driveways, patios, and all types of exterior living areas. But what are the pros and cons of block paving?

To give you an idea of how good block paving is, here are some of its advantages...

Block paving is generally considered to be:

When compared to other driveway materials, such as tarmac and concrete, block paving is often the preferred option.

However, block paving does have some disadvantages. Let’s have a look at some of the drawbacks of installing block paving.

What are the disadvantages of block paving?

As mentioned above, block paving is an extremely popular driveway and patio material. And rightly so.

There are many pros to installing block paving, but here are some of the cons to consider...

The cost of block paving and the skill and time needed to install a block paving driveway are the main disadvantages of the material.

Once installed, however, a block paving driveway could last upwards of 20 years when properly maintained.

This makes it a more cost-effective option in the long run.

How to hire the best block pavers to upgrade your space

Looking to revamp your drive or patio? Our guide has all the information you need to find the best block pavers to upgrade your outdoor space.

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Is block paving high maintenance?

In general, the answer is no. Block paving is considered to be a low-maintenance driveway material.

To keep block paving in the best possible condition and to ensure that it lasts as long as possible, some regular maintenance will be required.

Cleaning and maintaining block paving

When block paving is first installed, it’s best to avoid any rigorous cleaning.

• Do not use pressure washers or chemicals for the first few months after installation to avoid damage

• With newly installed block paving, the best approach is to sweep up any leaves and debris that accumulate.

• You can also top up the jointing sand by brushing the sand across the blocks and into the joints

Once the block paving is fully established, after six months to a year, you can start a regular maintenance schedule.

How to clean block paving

When cleaning your block paving, the following steps are the most effective way to keep it in the best condition:

1. Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove any dirt from the surface

2. Remove any weeds and moss

3. Brush down the block paving surface with soapy water

4. Hose down with clean water

5. Replace any jointing sand as required

Unless the block paving has been heavily stained, by a car oil leak, for example, you should not use a pressure washer.

When cleaning block paving never use acid-based chemical cleaners. These can permanently damage the surface of the blocks and ruin the driveway.

As with most home jobs, it can often work out more cost effective in the long term to get a professional to do the job for you.

How much does block paving cost?

The average cost for block paving in the UK is around £100 per m2.

To find out about the costs involved, check out our guide to block paving costs.

Block paving cost calculator

Based on our own data for what jobs cost across the UK, why not use our job estimator to help give you a better idea of cost?

With a few pieces of information, our AI-assisted tool will help give you a rough idea of what the job cost could be.

The most accurate way of getting cost is to request a quote directly from a relevant tradesperson.

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Hire a Checkatrade-approved block paving specialist

So now you know all about the pros and cons of block paving. Now it’s time to find a skilled block paving specialist to install your new driveway or patio area.

At Checkatrade, our database is full of checked and reviewed tradespeople working in your area.

We only give our seal of approval to tradespeople who pass up to 12 checks and commit to upholding The Checkatrade Standard to:

• Deliver a high-quality of work

• Maintain high standards of personal conduct

• Work safely, ethically, and within their skill set

• Communicate clearly and honestly

• Agree costs and contract terms upfront

• Encourage and welcome customer reviews

Professional block paving companies will ensure that all groundwork is completed and that your block paving is properly installed onto a stable base.

Our block paving installation guide will help you to understand the process before you hire a professional.

Frequently asked questions about block paving

Does block paving get weeds?

If your block paving is not properly maintained, you may get some problems with weeds.

It’s important to note that weeds will never force their way through block paving from underneath. Weeds normally establish themselves in the joints when regular maintenance is neglected.

Does block paving crack?

Like any outdoor material, block paving can be subject to freeze-thaw weathering. During cold weather, any water that's in small crevasses in the paving will freeze and cause small cracks to appear.

As with any skilled home improvement job, the results are always best if you hire a skilled and qualified professional.

Is it cheaper to block paving or tarmac?

Generally speaking, due to a number of factors, tarmac will be cheaper to lay than block paving. Why not compare our cost guides for both block paving and tarmac to check the difference?

What is the strongest block paving pattern?

As well as having a striking pattern, the zigzagging herringbone formation (at 45 or 90 degree angles) is often recognised as being one of the strongest choices for block paving. The superior interlocking helps to prevent slipping and shifting under heavy loads such as vehicles.

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