This Blackpool home was in need of a serious driveway glow-up. The old concrete slabs had done their job over the years, but they were tired, cracked, and frankly didn’t do the house justice. The aim? Transform a dull, dated drive into a smart, durable, and stylish block paved driveway that looks as good as it performs.
Before: The existing driveway was made up of large concrete flags. While functional, they had seen better days. Weeds were creeping through, some slabs had shifted, and overall it was giving off more “grey car park” vibes than “welcoming family home.” It was definitely time for a change!
Project Overview:
Phase 1: Clearing the Old Surface
The first job was to remove the tired old concrete flags. Each slab was carefully lifted and taken away, leaving a blank canvas to work with. This stage is always satisfying, saying goodbye to the patchy, uneven driveway and setting the stage for something brand new.
Phase 2: Ground Preparation
With the slabs gone, we excavated the full area to the correct depth, ensuring we had plenty of room for a strong base. The soil and debris were cleared, and a fresh layer of MOT Type 1 hardcore was laid across the entire driveway. This wasn’t just thrown down, it was spread evenly and compacted in multiple passes with a vibrating plate compactor, creating a rock-solid foundation that will prevent dips and movement over time.
Phase 3: Edging & Layout
Once the groundwork was perfect, we moved on to the edging. We used stylish dark-grey block edging to outline the driveway, setting it slightly higher than the internal blocks for a crisp border. This edging isn’t just decorative, it acts as a frame that keeps the block paving tightly in position and gives the whole driveway a neat, professional look. We also mapped out the curves and lines to make sure the drive would flow nicely with the shape of the property.
Phase 4: Block Paving Installation
Then came the exciting part, laying the blocks! The homeowners chose a striking red and charcoal mix, which we installed in a classic 45-degree herringbone pattern. This design doesn’t just look good; it also locks the blocks together more tightly, making the surface extra strong and resistant to the turning of car wheels. Each block was carefully laid by hand, checked for alignment, and cut precisely around edges and features to ensure a seamless finish.
Phase 5: Finishing Touches
To complete the job, we brushed kiln-dried sand into all the joints between the blocks. This step is essential, as it locks the blocks together and creates a firm, stable surface. The whole area was compacted again to bed everything in, ensuring a driveway that will stay level and solid for years to come. To finish things off, we dressed the edges with decorative gravel for extra drainage and a clean, modern touch.
After: The End Result:
What a transformation! The driveway now looks modern, tidy, and perfectly complements the house. Instead of uneven concrete, there’s a beautiful herringbone block paving design with contrasting borders that really makes the front of the property stand out.
It’s not just about looks either! The new drive is strong, low-maintenance, and built to handle years of parking without sinking or shifting. The homeowners now have a driveway they can be proud of, and the property has definitely had a big boost in kerb appeal.
Whether you are considering a new driveway or upgrading an existing one, Quality Driveways stands ready to bring your vision to life with exceptional quality and service in Preston. Contact us today to discuss your ideas!
