How to Build a Durable Block Paving Driveway: Step-by-Step Guide

David Michell
3 days ago
4 min read

When it comes to improving the curb appeal of your home, few options are as durable and attractive as block paving. Whether you’re considering driveways, patios, or replacing a tired tarmac driveway, properly laid block paving can offer long-lasting performance and style. In this article we’ll walk you through how to lay driveway block paving correctly, drawing on expert advice, proven methods, and quality materials.

What Is Block Paving and Why Choose It?

Block paving consists of individual blocks or bricks laid in patterns to form a hard surface. It is a popular alternative to tarmac driveway finishes because it allows more design flexibility, easier repairs, and better aesthetics. With block paving you get:

High durability under vehicle and foot traffic
Wide variety of colours, textures and styles to match your home
Ease of replacement: damaged blocks can be swapped individually
Improved drainage flexibility compared to continuous tarmac surfaces

This makes block paving ideal for driveways and patios, especially if you want something more visually appealing than a plain tarmac driveway.

Planning Your Block Paving Project

Before you break ground, some planning is essential. Here are key considerations:

Surface area and shape – Measure the full area you need to pave. Account for curves, edges, and any slope.
Traffic load – Will your driveway need to support heavy vehicles or just cars? Heavier loads mean thicker blocks and more robust subbases.
Drainage & slope – Water should flow away from the house. Incorporate a gradual slope (for example, about 1 cm drop per 60 cm run) to prevent standing water.
Local climate / soil – Weather and soil type affect frost heave and subsidence, so choose materials accordingly.
Regulations and permissions – In some areas changing from a tarmac driveway or installing new hard surfacing may require permits. Check local rules.

How To Lay Driveway Block Paving

Here’s a systematic guide to get a solid, long-lasting finish:

Excavation: Remove existing surface (tarmac, concrete etc.) plus soil to sufficient depth. For a domestic driveway under normal load, aim for around 150-200 mm depth (including sub-base, bedding, and block).
Edging and boundary preparation: Define the edges using mortar mixed with sand (often 4:1 sand to cement). Install solid edging stones or kerbs. These hold everything together and prevent the blocks from moving.
Sub-base installation: Lay a layer of MOT Type-1 or similar crushed aggregate. Compact it in lifts (e.g. two layers), ensuring each layer is well compacted. This provides the foundation and load distribution.
Bedding layer of sand: Once the sub-base is compacted and level, lay a 40-50 mm layer of sharp sand as a bedding course. The sand should be moist (not soggy) and then screeded level.
Laying the blocks: Start from one corner, often the lowest point if there is a slope. Use your string line to keep alignment straight. Place blocks one by one, maintaining consistent joint width. Use patterns appropriate to traffic: herringbone (45° or 90°) is often favoured for driveways due to its strength and interlocking.
Cutting and finishing edges: Where full blocks don’t fit, mark and cut to size using a bench saw or block-splitter so that edges look tidy and interlock remains consistent.
Joint filling: After blocks are in place, sweep kiln-dried sand into the joints. This locks blocks together and helps prevent movement or weed growth.
Compaction and settling: Use the vibrating compactor over the whole surface to settle the blocks into the sand bedding, and to make sure the surface is level.
Optional sealing: If desired, apply a suitable sealant after the surface has settled. This can protect against stains, fading from sun, and make cleaning easier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping or under-preparing the sub-base: this is often the cause of sinking or shifting blocks.
Using soft sand in the bedding layer: sharp sand is preferred for stability.
Poor drainage, or forgetting slope: water pooling can damage both blocks and sub-base.
Tight joints, or inconsistent joint widths: this causes stress and can lead to cracking.
Rushing compaction or finishing steps: letting materials settle properly is key to long-term performance.

Blocks vs Tarmac Driveways

Appearance: Block paving offers more design options. Tarmac is simpler and uniform.
Maintenance: Block paving allows replacing individual pavers if damaged; tarmac requires patching or full resurfacing.
Cost: Tarmac may be cheaper up front. But block paving may offer better value over time if well installed.
Durability: Blocks tend to resist cracking and settling better under certain conditions, provided base preparation is good.

Conclusion

Laying driveway block paving properly involves good planning, quality materials, correct base preparation, and attention to detail in every step—from excavation through to final compaction and joint filling. Whether you’re replacing a tarmac driveway or putting in a new block paved patio or driveway, following these steps will help you achieve a durable, attractive surface that enhances your property for many years.

If this sounds like a big project, it might be wise to consult or hire professionals—but knowing what good work looks like helps you get a fair job and a driveway or patio that lasts.