Block Paving for Driveways: Complete UK Guide to Materials, Costs and Installation

Block paving is one of the most established driveway surfaces in the UK. It can be used to create traditional entrances, modern geometric layouts, curved parking areas, pathways and hard-wearing vehicle surfaces.

However, the term “block paving” covers several very different materials and installation systems. Standard concrete blocks, fired clay pavers, granite setts, sandstone cobbles and limestone setts should not automatically be specified, installed or maintained in the same way.

This guide explains how to choose block paving for driveways, including the differences between concrete blocks and natural stone, suitable thicknesses, installation principles, drainage, planning considerations, costs, patterns and common causes of failure.

Quick answer: Concrete blocks are generally the most economical and standardised driveway option. Clay pavers provide strong colour retention and a traditional appearance. Properly specified natural stone setts and cobbles generally provide greater visual character, long-term colour stability and a more substantial finish, but they normally cost more and require more skilled installation.

What Is Block Paving?

Block paving is a surface formed from individual paving units laid repeatedly across a prepared base. Unlike large paving slabs, the smaller units create many joints and can be arranged in structured patterns.

The term is commonly associated with rectangular concrete blocks laid on a compacted aggregate base and sand laying course. However, it is also widely used for natural stone setts and cobbles installed on driveways, courtyards and paths.

The main types used in the UK are:

• concrete block paving;
• clay paving bricks;
• granite setts;
• basalt setts;
• sandstone cobbles;
• limestone cobbles and setts;
• permeable block paving systems.

The correct choice depends on appearance, budget, vehicle loading, driveway size, ground conditions, drainage and the expected standard of installation.

Blocks, Setts, Cobbles and Paving Slabs: What Is the Difference?

These terms are frequently used interchangeably, but they do not always describe the same product.

Block Paving

Block paving usually describes manufactured concrete or clay units with consistent dimensions. They are commonly installed using a flexible construction system with a granular sub-base, sand laying course and sand-filled joints.

Stone Setts

Setts are small natural stone paving units. Granite setts are among the best-known examples. They may be cropped, sawn, flamed or tumbled, depending on the required appearance and surface finish.

Cobbles

The term “cobbles” is often used commercially for small, rectangular or square natural stone units, including sandstone and limestone driveway paving. Historically, true cobbles were naturally rounded stones, but modern paving terminology frequently uses “cobbles” and “setts” for similar products.

Paving Slabs

Paving slabs are usually much larger and thinner than driveway setts. Standard patio slabs are not automatically suitable for regular vehicle loading. Large-format 20–22 mm sandstone or porcelain patio slabs should not be treated as substitutes for correctly specified driveway blocks or setts.

For driveways, small-format units are generally easier to support, restrain and repair than large slabs. However, the strength of the finished driveway still depends on the full construction beneath the surface.

Is Block Paving Suitable for UK Driveways?

Yes. Block paving is widely used for domestic driveways, parking areas and entrances throughout the UK.

Its principal advantages include:

• individual units can be replaced if damaged;
• different colours and formats can be combined;
• patterns can suit traditional or contemporary properties;
• small units can follow curves and irregular boundaries;
• contrasting borders can strengthen and define the perimeter;
• permeable systems can help manage surface water;
• properly specified natural stone can retain its colour and character for many years.

Block paving is not automatically successful simply because the surface material is durable. Poor excavation, weak edge restraints, insufficient compaction, unsuitable bedding or uncontrolled drainage can cause even high-quality paving to move or fail.

Main Types of Driveway Block Paving

Concrete Block Paving

Concrete blocks are the most common form of driveway block paving in Britain. They are manufactured in standard sizes, colours and profiles, making them relatively quick to install.

Concrete block paving is often chosen because it is:

• widely available;
• consistent in size;
• compatible with flexible installation;
• available in permeable and non-permeable formats;
• generally cheaper than natural stone;
• easy to replace locally.

Its limitations include possible fading, surface wear, efflorescence and staining. The quality of concrete blocks varies considerably, so price alone should not determine the specification.

Clay Pavers

Clay pavers are fired paving units manufactured from clay. Their colour runs through the unit rather than being applied only to the surface, which generally gives them strong long-term colour retention.

Clay paving is particularly suited to:

• traditional brick properties;
• period-style driveways;
• heritage settings;
• courtyards;
• paths and entrances requiring consistent colour.

Clay pavers are normally more expensive than standard concrete blocks and may offer a narrower choice of large-format contemporary colours.

Granite Setts

Granite setts are one of the strongest and most established natural stone choices for driveways. Granite is dense, hard-wearing and highly resistant to long-term colour fading.

Granite setts can be supplied in several finishes:

• Cropped granite setts: Traditional, irregular and textured.
• Sawn granite setts: More accurately sized and suited to controlled modern layouts.
• Flamed granite setts: Textured for external grip.
• Tumbled granite setts: Softer edges and an aged appearance.

Driveway-grade granite setts are commonly selected in approximately 50 mm thickness, although the final specification must reflect vehicle loading, sett dimensions and installation design.

Granite is particularly suitable where the customer wants a permanent-looking driveway, strong colour stability and a higher-value natural stone finish.

Basalt Setts

Basalt is a dense, dark natural stone that can create a strong contemporary appearance. It is commonly available in deep charcoal, blue-black and near-black shades.

Basalt Setts can be suitable for driveway use when the product thickness, finish and construction are appropriate. Dark surfaces may show dust, dried salts and light-coloured joint residue more visibly than mid-grey granite.

Before ordering basalt, confirm the exact product dimensions, surface finish, slip characteristics and intended vehicle-loading specification.

Sandstone Cobbles

Sandstone cobbles provide a warmer, more traditional appearance than standard concrete blocks. Colours may include grey, buff, brown, green and mixed earthy tones.

Sandstone cobbles can be suitable for domestic driveways when:

• the units are sufficiently thick;
• the stone is suitable for external vehicle areas;
• the sub-base is properly constructed;
• the cobbles are fully supported;
• edge restraints are secure;
• the joints are correctly completed.

Sandstone cobbles should not be confused with standard sandstone patio slabs. For more detail, read Can Indian Sandstone Be Used for Driveways?.

Limestone Cobbles and Setts

Limestone cobbles and setts can provide a refined, muted appearance. Depending on the stone, colours may include black, blue-grey, beige and soft brown tones.

Limestone driveway products must be selected carefully. The stone type, thickness and finish should be confirmed for the intended loading. Some limestone can also be more sensitive to acidic cleaning chemicals than granite or porcelain.

Natural Stone Block Paving vs Concrete Blocks

Concrete is not automatically an inferior product. For many households, it provides the best balance between cost, installation speed and predictable dimensions.

Natural stone becomes more attractive where the project prioritises long-term appearance, natural colour, individuality and integration with stone walls, steps, kerbs or traditional buildings.

What Thickness Should Driveway Block Paving Be?

Thickness is important, but it cannot be considered in isolation.

Driveway performance also depends on:

• the strength of the paving material;
• unit length and width;
• subgrade conditions;
• sub-base thickness and compaction;
• bedding system;
• joint width and jointing material;
• edge restraint;
• vehicle weight;
• frequency of use;
• turning and braking forces.

Standard concrete driveway blocks are commonly manufactured at approximately 50–60 mm thickness. Natural stone driveway setts are also frequently supplied around 50 mm thick, although cropped and hand-cut stone may have a stated thickness range rather than one exact measurement.

A 30 mm natural stone sett should not automatically be recommended for vehicle areas. Some products may be suitable for paths, edging or decorative areas but not for regular driveway loading.

Heavier vehicles, commercial vans, refuse vehicles or frequent turning may require a more substantial paving and foundation design.

Best Block Paving Sizes for Driveways

Common natural stone sett formats include:

• 100 × 100 mm;
• 200 × 100 mm;
• mixed rectangular sizes;
• coursed mixed-length setts;
• larger square or rectangular driveway cobbles.

Smaller units create more joints, which can help accommodate curves and traditional patterns. They also require more installation time and more jointing material.

The 200 × 100 mm format is popular because it provides a familiar rectangular proportion suitable for running bond, stretcher bond and herringbone-style layouts.

Square 100 × 100 mm setts can create traditional coursed surfaces, fan patterns, borders and detailed entrance areas.

Sawn setts generally allow tighter and more consistent joints. Cropped or split setts have greater dimensional variation and normally require more skilled alignment.

Best Block Paving Patterns for Driveways

45-Degree Herringbone

A 45-degree herringbone pattern creates strong visual movement and is widely used in areas where vehicles turn or brake. It requires considerable cutting along the edges.

90-Degree Herringbone

A 90-degree herringbone pattern offers similar interlocking geometry but can be easier to align with rectangular buildings and straight driveway boundaries.

Running Bond

Running bond uses offset joints between consecutive rows. It creates a clean, directional layout and is well suited to rectangular setts.

The direction of the courses should be considered in relation to vehicle movement, drainage and the appearance of the entrance.

Stack Bond

Stack bond aligns all joints in straight lines. It creates a contemporary appearance but provides less mechanical interlock than herringbone in flexible block paving systems.

For rigidly mortared natural stone setts, the mortar bed, joints and edge restraints also contribute substantially to stability.

Coursed Setts

Coursed natural stone setts create a traditional European street or courtyard appearance. The units may have mixed lengths while maintaining reasonably consistent row widths.

Fan and Radial Patterns

Fan and radial patterns are visually distinctive but labour-intensive. They require careful setting-out, skilled cutting and control of joint widths.

Contrasting Borders

A border can:

• define the driveway edge;
• separate parking and walking zones;
• frame a central paving pattern;
• connect the driveway with paths and entrances;
• provide a strong restraint around the perimeter.

Granite setts are frequently used as borders around sandstone, porcelain, gravel, resin-bound surfaces and concrete paving.

How Is a Block Paving Driveway Constructed?

Concrete blocks and natural stone setts are not always installed using the same system.

Flexible Block Paving Construction

A typical flexible system for concrete or clay paving includes:

1. Excavating to the required formation level.
2. Assessing and preparing the subgrade.
3. Installing geotextile where site conditions justify it.
4. Placing and compacting a granular sub-base.
5. Constructing secure edge restraints.
6. Applying and screeding a suitable laying course.
7. Laying the blocks to the selected pattern.
8. Cutting perimeter units accurately.
9. Applying kiln-dried jointing sand.
10. Compact­ing the surface with suitable equipment.
11. Repeating joint sanding where required.

This system relies on interlock, compaction, edge restraint and the relationship between blocks, sand and sub-base.

Rigid Natural Stone Construction

Natural stone setts and cobbles are commonly laid using a rigid system that may include:

1. A properly compacted MOT Type 1 sub-base.
2. Strong concrete or masonry edge restraints.
3. A full mortar bedding layer.
4. Slurry primer applied to the underside of suitable stone products.
5. Individual levelling of setts or cobbles.
6. Mortar or compatible rigid jointing.
7. Controlled curing before vehicle access.

The variable thickness of cropped or hand-cut stone means each unit may require individual bedding adjustment. This is slower than laying uniform concrete blocks on a screeded sand bed.

For detailed installation guidance, read:

• How to Lay Granite Setts for a Driveway
• How to Lay Sandstone Cobbles for a Driveway

How Deep Should the Sub-Base Be?

There is no single sub-base depth suitable for every driveway.

The correct construction depends on:

• soil strength;
• excavation depth;
• drainage;
• domestic or commercial loading;
• cars, vans or heavier vehicles;
• existing ground disturbance;
• sub-base material;
• compaction method;
• the paving system above it.

Domestic driveway specifications often use a compacted granular sub-base in the region of 100–150 mm, but weak ground or heavier loading may require greater depth or a site-specific design.

Sub-base material should be placed and compacted in controlled layers rather than tipped in one deep layer and compacted only at the surface.

A thick sub-base that is poorly compacted may perform worse than a properly installed, well-compacted design.

Edge Restraints Are Essential

Block paving can spread laterally if its perimeter is not properly restrained.

Edge restraints may include:

• concrete kerbs;
• granite kerbs;
• stone setts bedded in concrete;
• existing walls or structural edges;
• purpose-made driveway edging.

The edge restraint should be installed securely before the main paving is completed. Weak or moving edges can allow joints to open, blocks to rotate and the driveway surface to spread.

Driveway Drainage and SuDS Rules

Driveway drainage is both a practical and planning consideration.

In England, a new or replacement front driveway generally does not require planning permission where:

• the surface is permeable; or
• rainwater is directed to a lawn, border, soakaway or another permeable area within the property.

Where more than 5 m² of front garden is covered with a traditional impermeable surface and no suitable on-site drainage is provided, planning permission may be required.

Rules and permitted development rights can differ in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Conservation areas, listed buildings and local planning conditions may also impose additional requirements.

A dropped kerb or vehicle crossover is a separate issue. Permission is normally required from the relevant highway or local authority before vehicles can legally cross a public pavement.

Is Natural Stone Block Paving Permeable?

Not automatically.

Permeability depends on the complete driveway system, including:

• joint design;
• jointing material;
• bedding layer;
• sub-base;
• soil infiltration;
• drainage outlets;
• the overall SuDS design.

Natural stone setts laid on a full mortar bed with rigid mortar joints are normally treated as an impermeable surface unless drainage is directed elsewhere within the property.

A surface does not become permeable simply because the stone itself absorbs a small amount of water.

How Much Does Block Paving Cost per m² in the UK?

Block paving prices vary according to material, driveway size, access, excavation, drainage, pattern, cutting and regional labour costs.

Current UK market guides commonly place professionally installed concrete block paving broadly around £80–£140 per m², depending on the project. Clay, permeable and premium systems may cost more.

Natural stone setts can have substantially higher installed costs because the material is more expensive and installation is more labour-intensive. Full groundwork, mortar bedding, individual levelling, cutting and rigid jointing all add to the final price.

PSU’s published supply prices for granite setts and sandstone cobbles vary by colour, size and finish. For current product figures, review:

• Granite Setts Price per m²
• Indian Sandstone Cobbles Cost per m²

What Is Normally Included in an Installed Driveway Price?

An installed quotation may include:

• excavation;
• waste removal;
• subgrade preparation;
• sub-base supply and compaction;
• drainage;
• edge restraints;
• bedding materials;
• paving supply;
• cutting;
• jointing;
• labour;
• cleaning and final inspection.

Always confirm whether VAT, delivery, skips, drainage channels, kerbs and access difficulties are included.

How Much Block Paving Should You Order?

Calculate the paved area in square metres and add an allowance for cuts, breakages and future repairs.

A simple rectangular driveway can be calculated as:

Length × width = area in square metres

The required wastage depends on:

• the paving pattern;
• driveway shape;
• number of curves;
• sett size;
• natural dimensional variation;
• amount of cutting;
• whether spare units are required.

A straightforward rectangular layout may require approximately 5–10% extra. Complex fan patterns, diagonal herringbone, irregular boundaries or highly variable natural stone may require a larger allowance.

Check pack coverage rather than calculating only from nominal block dimensions.

Does Block Paving Need Sealing?

Sealing is optional and should not be presented as compulsory for every driveway.

A suitable sealer may:

• reduce oil absorption;
• make cleaning easier;
• deepen the colour;
• reduce surface porosity;
• stabilise some sand-filled joints where a compatible system is used.

However, sealing cannot correct:

• poor drainage;
• weak sub-base;
• moving blocks;
• open joints;
• failed edges;
• rising moisture;
• deep structural settlement.

Dense granite may not require sealing in many domestic settings. Porous sandstone or limestone may benefit more in oil-prone parking areas, but only when the surface is clean, dry and suitable for the selected product.

Do not seal active efflorescence, damp paving or contaminated joints.

How to Maintain Block Paving

Routine maintenance is generally straightforward.

• Sweep away leaves, soil and organic debris.
• Remove oil and fuel spills promptly.
• Keep drainage channels clear.
• Inspect the joints after pressure cleaning.
• Replace lost kiln-dried sand in flexible paving.
• Repair cracked mortar joints in rigid natural stone paving.
• Remove weeds before roots become established.
• Avoid directing concentrated pressure into joints.
• Check for local settlement or loose edges.

Weeds commonly establish in soil and organic debris that accumulates within open or neglected joints. They do not always grow directly from deep beneath an intact driveway.

Regular sweeping and sound jointing can therefore reduce weed growth significantly.

Common Block Paving Problems

Why Does Block Paving Sink?

Sinking is normally caused by failure beneath the surface rather than a defect in the paving block itself.

Common causes include:

• insufficient excavation;
• weak or disturbed subgrade;
• inadequate sub-base depth;
• poor compaction;
• water washing out the bedding;
• leaking drainage;
• repeated heavy vehicle loading;
• trenches or utility works beneath the driveway.

The correct repair is normally to lift the affected blocks, reconstruct the failed bedding or sub-base and relay the surface. Simply adding sand beneath one low block may provide only a temporary result.

Why Are the Joints Washing Out?

Joint loss may result from:

• pressure washing too close to the surface;
• using an inappropriate jointing material;
• insufficient joint depth;
• movement in the paving;
• poor curing;
• water flowing repeatedly across the joints.

Why Is Block Paving Turning White?

White deposits may be efflorescence, cleaning residue, mineral deposits from water or sealer failure.

Efflorescence is common in some new concrete and clay installations and may reduce naturally as the surface dries and weathers.

Do not apply aggressive acid before identifying the material and the cause.

Why Are the Edges Spreading?

Spreading usually indicates failed, absent or poorly secured edge restraints. The perimeter should be rebuilt before the movement affects a larger area.

Why Is Water Puddling?

Ponding may be caused by:

• insufficient falls;
• settlement;
• blocked channels;
• uneven bedding;
• raised surrounding ground;
• incorrect drainage design.

Cleaning the surface will not correct a construction-level drainage problem.

How Long Does Block Paving Last?

A well-designed and properly installed block paving driveway can last for decades. The service life depends more on foundation quality, drainage and loading than on appearance alone.

Concrete blocks may remain structurally serviceable even where the original surface colour has faded. Clay and natural stone generally offer stronger long-term colour retention.

Natural stone setts have been used historically in heavily trafficked streets and courtyards, but this does not mean every modern sett product is automatically suitable for every driveway. Thickness, stone quality and construction remain essential.

Is Block Paving Slippery?

External block paving should provide a suitable textured surface, but slipperiness can increase where:

• algae develops;
• the surface remains shaded and wet;
• oil is present;
• an unsuitable sealer has been applied;
• polished or overly smooth stone is used;
• drainage is poor.

Cropped, flamed and textured finishes normally offer more surface grip than polished stone.

Walking comfort should also be considered. Very uneven cropped setts can be less comfortable for wheelchairs, mobility aids, pushchairs and narrow bicycle tyres than accurately sawn or smoother paving units.

Is Block Paving Suitable for Vans and Electric Vehicles?

Block paving can be suitable for vans and electric vehicles, but heavier vehicles increase pressure on the driveway construction.

Important considerations include:

• vehicle weight;
• frequency of use;
• turning at the entrance;
• braking near garage doors;
• subgrade strength;
• sub-base depth;
• edge restraint;
• block thickness;
• drainage.

A driveway intended for frequent commercial van use should not automatically use the same specification as a lightly used domestic car parking area.

Where loading is uncertain, obtain a site-specific specification from an experienced driveway contractor or pavement designer.

When Should You Choose Granite Setts?

Granite setts are particularly suitable where:

• high durability is a priority;
• strong colour stability is required;
• the property has traditional stone or brick detailing;
• a premium entrance is desired;
• the driveway includes borders, circles or set-out details;
• the same material will be used for paths, kerbs or steps.

Sawn granite is generally better suited to precise contemporary layouts and more consistent joints. Cropped granite provides a rougher, more traditional appearance.

When Should You Choose Sandstone Cobbles?

Sandstone cobbles are particularly suitable where:

• warm or mixed natural colours are preferred;
• the garden already uses Indian sandstone paving;
• a traditional cottage or rural appearance is required;
• the customer wants natural variation rather than uniform colour;
• the driveway needs to coordinate with sandstone paths, patios or walls.

Sandstone cobbles require correct thickness, full support and appropriate jointing. Natural variation in colour, texture and dimensions should be expected.

When Is Concrete Block Paving the Better Choice?

Concrete block paving may be the more practical choice where:

• the budget is limited;
• rapid installation is important;
• high dimensional consistency is required;
• a standard permeable system is preferred;
• future local repairs need to be straightforward;
• the project does not justify premium natural stone.

A balanced specification should consider the whole project rather than assuming the most expensive material is automatically the most appropriate.

Block Paving Driveway Buying Checklist

• Confirm whether the product is suitable for vehicle loading.
• Check the stated thickness and dimensional tolerances.
• Identify whether the product requires flexible or rigid installation.
• Assess the ground and expected vehicle weight.
• Provide adequate sub-base depth and compaction.
• Install secure perimeter restraints.
• Plan drainage before excavation.
• Check planning and dropped-kerb requirements.
• Choose a pattern appropriate for turning forces and appearance.
• Allow enough material for cuts and breakages.
• Confirm pack coverage, VAT and delivery.
• Use a contractor experienced with the selected material.
• Keep spare blocks or setts for future repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best block paving for a driveway?

There is no single best product for every driveway. Concrete blocks provide affordability and consistency, clay pavers offer strong colour retention, and granite setts provide a highly durable premium natural stone finish. The correct choice depends on budget, appearance, loading and installation.

Is natural stone block paving better than concrete?

Natural stone generally offers greater colour variation, individuality and long-term visual character. Concrete is normally cheaper, more consistent in size and faster to install. The better option depends on the priorities of the project.

Are granite setts suitable for cars?

Yes, driveway-grade granite setts are suitable for cars when the thickness, sub-base, bedding, joints and edge restraints are correctly specified.

Can sandstone cobbles be used on a driveway?

Yes. Properly specified sandstone cobbles can be used for domestic driveways. Standard thin sandstone patio slabs should not automatically be used as an alternative.

What thickness should driveway block paving be?

Concrete driveway blocks are commonly around 50–60 mm thick. Natural stone driveway setts are often approximately 50 mm thick, although hand-cut products may vary. Loading and construction design must also be considered.

Is 30 mm stone block paving suitable for vehicles?

Not automatically. Many 30 mm stone products are intended for paths, patios or edging. Confirm the manufacturer or supplier’s intended application before specifying them for vehicle traffic.

Does block paving need a concrete base?

Standard flexible concrete block paving is normally laid over a compacted granular sub-base and sand laying course rather than a full concrete slab. Natural stone setts are commonly laid on a full mortar bed over a compacted sub-base.

How deep should a block paving sub-base be?

Domestic driveways commonly use approximately 100–150 mm of compacted granular sub-base, but weak ground, drainage conditions and heavier vehicles may require a greater depth or site-specific specification.

Should natural stone setts be laid on sand or mortar?

Natural stone setts and cobbles are commonly installed on a full mortar bed because their thickness and underside may vary. Standard concrete blocks are more commonly laid using a flexible sand-based construction.

Does granite need slurry primer?

Where granite is installed on a rigid mortar bed, a suitable slurry primer may be required to improve adhesion between the stone and bedding. Follow the installation specification and primer manufacturer’s instructions.

Which block paving pattern is strongest?

Herringbone patterns provide strong mechanical interlock for flexible concrete block paving and are commonly used in vehicle turning areas. In rigid natural stone construction, the mortar bed, joints and edge restraints also contribute significantly to stability.

Is block paving permeable?

Only a purpose-designed permeable system should be treated as permeable. Standard blocks or natural stone setts laid over impermeable bedding do not become permeable simply because they contain joints.

Do I need planning permission for a block paving driveway?

In England, planning permission is normally not required where a new or replacement front driveway uses a permeable surface or directs runoff to a permeable area within the property. An impermeable area over 5 m² without suitable on-site drainage may require permission.

How much does block paving cost per m²?

Installed concrete block paving commonly falls within a broad UK range of approximately £80–£140 per m². Clay, permeable systems and natural stone can cost more. Groundwork, drainage, access and pattern complexity have a major effect on the final price.

How much extra block paving should I order?

Approximately 5–10% extra may be suitable for a straightforward layout. Complex patterns, curves and irregular natural stone may require a greater allowance.

Why does block paving sink?

Sinking is usually caused by weak subgrade, insufficient sub-base, poor compaction, water movement or repeated loading. The failed foundation should be corrected before the paving is relaid.

Can weeds grow through block paving?

Weeds often germinate in soil and organic debris collected within open joints. Sound joints and regular sweeping reduce this problem. Established roots and failed construction can also contribute.

Does block paving need sealing?

No. Sealing is optional. It may reduce staining or change the appearance, but it cannot correct structural movement, poor drainage or failed joints.

Can block paving be pressure washed?

Yes, but use controlled pressure and a wide fan nozzle. Do not direct a concentrated jet into joints, as this can remove sand, mortar or resin jointing.

How long before vehicles can use a new driveway?

Flexible block paving may be usable after final compaction and jointing, subject to the installer’s specification. Rigid natural stone paving requires sufficient mortar and joint curing. Follow the bedding and jointing manufacturers’ instructions before allowing vehicle access.

Final Advice

A successful block paving driveway depends on more than the surface material. Concrete, clay, granite, basalt, sandstone and limestone can all perform well when their limitations are understood and the construction is appropriate.

Concrete provides a practical and economical solution. Clay offers strong colour retention. Granite setts provide exceptional natural character and durability. Sandstone and limestone cobbles offer softer colours and a traditional appearance.

The most important decisions are:

• selecting a product intended for vehicle use;
• constructing the correct sub-base;
• using the appropriate bedding system;
• installing strong edge restraints;
• controlling surface water;
• allowing for the actual vehicle loading.

Browse the complete range of natural stone block paving, including granite setts, sandstone cobbles and limestone setts for UK driveways, entrances, paths and landscape borders.

For further specialist guidance, visit the Stone Setts Advice Hub.