New driveway

Hector-The-Inspector_2

Welsh2 wrote: »

Hello

I was advised that monoblocks would not stay on the drive as it is too steep.

That's not true, installed properly monoblock is retained around all edges to stop it spreading,

Anna-S_3

My neighbour had Creteprint lay concrete in his front garden. They caused a lot of damage to the plants in my front garden including destroying a honeysuckle bush. The telephone receptionist was unhelpful to say the least when I called to inquire whether they were going to clear up the 4 gallons of hard core that had been dumped in my front garden by mistake. I had to clear it all up myself. They were a bit slapdash, never turned up when they were expected, and the young lads were prone to shouting and swearing in the middle of the road. Nearly came to blows on one occasion.

I'd advise against using them but if you must, make sure you warn your neighbours.

By the way - it looked like paving until they painted varnish on it, now it looks ridiculous.

trumpton

I am not sure that a concrete imprinted drive is suitable for a steep site - as the concrete is drying it will surely move downhill slightly I would think. I would think your best option is tarmac or pavers - if properly done they won't be slippy or move, though all materials will deteriorate over time.

Done properly, a concrete drive shouldn't be slippery though - the surface is slightly textured as concrete doesn't dry to a perfect, smooth finish. We were happy with ours - still looked good after 10 years. One disadvantage was that if you have a cobbled effect, it's no good for kids to play or ride bikes on as it's too bumpy. Best thing was that we didn't get weeds growing through at all, just a little moss in the expansion channels. I think block paving looks nicer though, but obviously costs more.

Get lots of quotes, try to find a company recommended by someone you know, and never, ever go with someone who turns up at the door with some spare tarmac from a job they have just finished round the corner. Don't pay any money up front either.