Start underneath, not on top
The surface is the last decision, not the first. If the existing base is sound, sits at the right depth and still falls away from the property, laying a new surface over it can be the sensible route. If it has moved, cracked or was built too thin, covering it over just hides the problem for a year or two.
That is why we won't tell you which surface you should have from a photograph and a postcode. We need to see the edges, the levels and where the water currently goes.
Resin bound
- A decorative aggregate bound with resin, giving a seamless finish with no joints for weeds to establish in.
- Permeable when built on a suitable base, so rain can pass through rather than run off.
- Colour is chosen from physical samples held against your property, in daylight, before anything is ordered.
- Needs sound edge restraint — the edge is where resin surfaces are weakest.
- Best kept off heavy point loads and not used as a storage yard.
Block paving
- Individual blocks on a laid bedding course, with joints that let water through when built on the right build-up.
- Patterns and borders give a more traditional look, and a block-paved border can be used to frame a resin area.
- Joints need topping up with sand over the years and can hold moss and weeds if left.
- Can be lifted and re-laid if something needs to go underneath later.
Tarmac and asphalt
- Machine laid, which makes it quick and economical over larger areas and long drives.
- A seamless surface that needs correct falls and firm edge restraint to last.
- Colour choice is limited compared with resin, and it softens if fuel or oil is spilt on it.
- Often the right answer for farm, commercial and long private drives rather than a small front plot.
How we help you decide
At your assessment we measure, check the existing surface and base, look at the levels and show you samples on the actual property. You then get a written proposal naming the construction route, what is included and what is priced separately — so you can compare like for like.