Which brand of block paving?

JenJam111

Getting quotes in to block pave the driveway. Different contractors all seem to use different brands of paving and swear that their chosen brand is the best. Is there really a difference? Is Brett’s better than Marshall’s or vice versa?

FreeBear

For your average domestic driveway, probably not a huge difference between manufacturers.

The single most important thing is preparation of the sub-base. You need 150-200 of well compacted material (either MOT1 or crushed rubble), not a pile of broken bricks/concrete thrown in. 25mm of sharp sand, again compacted, then the blocks laid on top. The blocks around the edge need to be set in a ~200mm thick bed of concrete to stop the rest of the blocks from moving.

If the sub-base is not prepared properly, you will end up with ruts forming within a few months/years where you regularly park your car. Some will say ~100mm of MOT1 is sufficient - For a path or patio, I would agree, but a driveway is subjected to high localised loading, and it is worth going that little bit more. It is a job you only want to do once.

Bradden

There are some differences in sizes/finish (tumbled etc) but quality is fairly consistent. Not a fan of Brett or Bradstone personally as I don't think the quality is great compared to otherse.g. Marshalls.

for example...

Pavesett blocks are available in 3 sizes at 60mm depth.
Formpave - one size but 60mm depth.

As @FreeBear said the important part is the sub-base... to many people skimp of this.. and it shows a few months later.

wooblykit

JenJam111 said:

Getting quotes in to block pave the driveway. Different contractors all seem to use different brands of paving and swear that their chosen brand is the best. Is there really a difference? Is Brett’s better than Marshall’s or vice versa?

The quality and performance of block paving can vary between brands, but it's not always a clear-cut case of one brand being definitively better than another. Each brand may offer different features, styles, and levels of durability, so it's essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing.

Here are some factors to consider when comparing block paving brands:

1. Material Quality: Some brands may use higher quality materials or manufacturing processes, resulting in more durable and longer-lasting paving.

2. Variety of Styles: Different brands may offer a wide range of styles, colors, and patterns to choose from, allowing you to find the perfect aesthetic for your driveway.

3. Warranty and Guarantees: Check if the brand offers any warranties or guarantees on their products. This can provide peace of mind regarding the longevity and performance of the paving.

4. Customer Reviews and Reputation: Researching customer reviews and the reputation of each brand can give you insights into the experiences of others who have used their products.

5. Price: While price shouldn't be the sole determining factor, it's essential to consider the cost of each brand's products and whether it fits within your budget.

Different contractors all seem to use different brands of paving and swear that their chosen brand is the best. Ultimately, the "best" brand of block paving will depend on your priorities, budget, and the specific requirements of your driveway project. It may be helpful to obtain samples from different brands, compare quotes, and discuss your options with the contractors to make an informed decision.

FreeBear

Necro posting alert - The original thread is from August 2022.

ashe

FreeBear said:

Necro posting alert - The original thread is from August 2022.

Also sounds like AI! Esp how it rehashes the OP in the summary.