Pros and cons of block paving
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:
- Durable
- Low-maintenance
- Visually attractive
- Available in lots of colours
- Can be laid in different patterns
- Weather-resistant
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…
- It can be expensive
- Installation is labour-intensive
- Installing block paving is a highly skilled job
- It must be properly cleaned and sealed to extend life expectancy
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 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.
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.
Block paving should be cleaned on a seasonal basis. This means once in spring and once in autumn.
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:
- Use a stiff-bristled brush to remove any dirt from the surface
- Remove any weeds and moss
- Brush down the block paving surface with soapy water
- Hose down with clean water
- 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.
If there are any heavy-duty stains, carefully use a pressure washer on the affected area.
When cleaning block paving never use acid-based chemical cleaners. These can permanently damage the surface of the blocks and ruin the driveway.
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.
Regular cleaning following the steps mentioned above will help to prevent weeds from taking hold.
Always replace any missing sand to avoid problematic weeds. If you have moved into a property with block paving and weeds are already a problem, you may need to use some weedkiller to eradicate the weeds.
Using weedkiller sparingly and only in affected areas will help to kill the weeds. Once this is done, regular maintenance should keep your block paving in the best condition.
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.
Over time, these cracks can grow, causing damage to the surface of your block paving.
The best way to avoid problems with cracks in your block paving is to use a sealant.
Specialist weatherproof sealants should be applied once the block paving is completely set.
They will form a clear layer of protection on the block paving surface and prevent cracks from forming.
Another way to avoid cracks in your block paving is to ensure that they are properly installed with adequate drainage.
As with any skilled home improvement job, the results are always best if you hire a skilled and qualified professional.
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 skilled and vetted tradespeople working in your area.
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.
Block paving options
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.
For the material, block paving is usually made from materials such as clay, concrete, or stone.
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.
Your block paving installer will also answer any questions you may have on block paving maintenance, cleaning, and general upkeep.
No comments yet!