Our team recently completed a full driveway and patio transformation at a property in Wigan, replacing the old paved and overgrown areas with a fresh tarmac driveway and a newly installed block paved patio. The project was designed to improve both the appearance and practicality of the outdoor space, creating a clean driveway to the front and side of the property, along with a smart block paved area to the rear. Quality Driveways provides driveway, patio and landscaping services across Wigan, Lancashire and the surrounding areas, and this project is a great example of how different surfaces can be combined to create a complete outdoor transformation.
The original driveway had become tired and uneven, with old paving slabs, weeds and worn sections making the entrance look dated. The side access also needed a cleaner and more practical surface, while the rear garden area was transformed into a block paved patio to provide a more usable outdoor space. After discussing the options, the client chose a combination of tarmac and block paving. Tarmac was selected for the driveway because it provides a smooth, hardwearing and low-maintenance finish, while block paving was used for the patio and edging to add detail, definition and a more decorative look.
Before & After
Before the work began, the driveway and side access were made up of old paving slabs and worn sections that no longer gave the property a clean or practical finish. Weeds had started to grow through the surface, and the overall appearance of the outdoor space looked dated and in need of a full refresh.
After the installation, the property was left with a smooth new tarmac driveway, neat block paving edging and a freshly laid block paved patio area. The front and side of the house now have a clean, consistent surface, while the rear space has been made far more usable with a smart paved finish.
Phase 1: Excavation & Removal
The first stage of the project was to remove the existing driveway and patio materials, including the old paving slabs, loose sections and overgrown areas. This allowed our team to take the surface back to a suitable level and prepare the space properly for the new installation. The front driveway, side access and rear patio area were all cleared as part of the works, giving us a clean starting point for the new tarmac and block paving. All waste was removed from site, leaving the area ready for the groundwork stage.
Phase 2: Ground Preparation
Once the old materials had been cleared, the ground was prepared to create a strong foundation for the new surfaces. A suitable sub-base was installed and compacted to provide stability across the driveway, side access and patio area. This stage is essential for any long-lasting driveway or patio installation, as the strength of the finished surface depends on the quality of the preparation underneath. By compacting the foundation correctly, we created a firm base ready for both the tarmac driveway and the block paved patio.
Phase 3: Edging & Drainage
With the ground prepared, block paving edging was installed to define the driveway shape and create a clean border around the new tarmac surface. The edging was fitted along the front entrance, around the curved driveway section and down the side access to give the project a neat, structured finish. Levels and falls were also set to help rainwater drain away from the property and finished surfaces. Good drainage is an important part of any driveway installation, helping to protect the surface and keep the area practical in wet weather.
Phase 4: Block Paved Patio Installation
As part of the project, a new block paved patio area was installed to the rear of the property. The area was prepared and laid with block paving to create a smart, usable outdoor space that contrasts well with the tarmac driveway. Block paving was a good choice for this section because it provides a decorative finish while remaining durable and practical. The finished patio gives the homeowner a much cleaner rear area that can be used for seating, access or general outdoor use.
Phase 5: Tarmac Base Course Installation
After the edging and patio works had been completed, the tarmac base course was installed across the prepared driveway and side access areas. This lower layer provides strength beneath the final surface and helps create a durable structure for everyday use. The base course was spread evenly and compacted thoroughly to create a firm, level platform. This stage is especially important on a driveway that runs from the front entrance down the side of the property, as the surface needs to remain stable and consistent throughout.
Phase 6: Tarmac Surface Installation
Once the base course was ready, the final tarmac wearing course was laid to create the finished driveway surface. The tarmac was applied carefully across the front and side areas before being compacted to achieve a smooth, even finish. The fresh black surface immediately improved the appearance of the property, replacing the old worn paving with a clean and practical driveway. The tarmac works neatly alongside the block paving edging, giving the finished installation a smart and professional look.
Phase 7: Finishing Touches
With the main surfaces complete, the final stage was to check all edging, borders and levels to make sure the project had been finished to a high standard. The block paved patio was inspected, the tarmac edges were tidied, and the site was left clean and ready for use once the surface had cured. These final details help bring the full project together, ensuring the driveway, side access and patio all look neat, practical and professionally installed.
Thinking About a New Driveway or Patio in Wigan?
If you are considering a new tarmac driveway, block paved patio or full outdoor transformation in Wigan, Quality Driveways is here to help. From excavation and groundwork through to edging, drainage, block paving and the final tarmac finish, our team delivers high-quality workmanship and a professional service on every project. Contact us today to arrange a free, no-obligation quote and let us help transform your outdoor space with a driveway or patio that is built to last.
