Block Paving Nottingham - Affordable Paving Specialist

Expert Block Paving Installation in Nottingham

At Professional Gardeners of Nottingham, we specialise in high-quality block paving installation, transforming driveways, patios, and pathways with durable and stylish surfaces. Whether you want to enhance your home’s kerb appeal or create a functional outdoor space, our expert team delivers outstanding craftsmanship with precision and care.

Using premium materials and proven installation techniques, we ensure your block paving is built to last, resistant to heavy foot traffic, weather conditions, and general wear. From classic herringbone designs to modern patterns, we offer a range of styles, colours, and finishes to complement your property.

With years of experience serving Nottingham homeowners, we take pride in offering professional, reliable, and affordable block paving solutions tailored to your needs. Our team provides a free consultation, expert advice, and a no-obligation quote, helping you make the best choice for your property.

Upgrade your outdoor space with Professional Gardeners of Nottingham – your trusted specialists in block paving installations, for any other driveway surface solutions please go to our main driveway service page.

Contact us today to learn more about our services, book a free consultation and quote, and see how we can help you create your dream driveway or outdoor paving space. We look forward to hearing from you!

Why Choose Block Paving For Your'e Nottingham Home?

Block paving is a popular choice for homeowners because of its versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the key benefits of choosing block paving:

Exceptional Durability

Block paving is designed to withstand heavy loads and frequent use, making it ideal for driveways and high-traffic areas. Unlike gravel, which can shift over time, or tarmac, which can crack, block paving remains solid and structurally sound for decades.

• Withstands vehicles, foot traffic, and weather conditions without sinking or cracking.
• Long-lasting performance, with a lifespan of 20+ years when properly maintained.
• More resistant to frost, heat, and wear compared to poured concrete or asphalt.

Enhances Kerb Appeal

A well-designed block paving installation can instantly boost the appearance of your home. Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary look, you can choose from a wide range of colours, patterns, and textures to suit your property's style.

• Available in various colours to complement your home’s exterior.
• Can be laid in different patterns such as herringbone, stretcher bond, or basketweave.
• Adds a premium, high-quality finish that enhances property value.

Low Maintenance & Easy to Repair

One of the best things about block paving is that it’s low maintenance compared to other driveway and patio options. Unlike tarmac, which requires resurfacing, or gravel, which needs regular raking, block paving is easy to clean and repair.

• Simple to maintain – Occasional sweeping and jet washing keep it looking fresh.
• No major repairs needed – Individual blocks can be replaced without disturbing the rest of the paving.
• Weed-resistant options available – Reduce maintenance by opting for sealed paving or proper jointing sand.

Great Drainage & Permeability

Block paving allows for natural drainage, helping to reduce standing water and prevent flooding. This makes it a sustainable and environmentally friendly choice, especially with permeable paving options.

• Helps with water runoff management, reducing the risk of puddles.
• Prevents drainage issues and complies with UK SuDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) regulations.
• Minimises water pooling, which can cause slippery surfaces in winter.

Adds Value to Your Home

A professionally installed block paving driveway or patio doesn’t just look great – it also adds value to your home. Potential buyers see it as a premium feature, making your property more attractive if you ever decide to sell.

• A well-maintained driveway or patio can boost your home's market value.
• Creates a welcoming first impression for visitors and buyers.
• Makes outdoor spaces more usable and stylish, enhancing everyday living.

Our Block Paving Installation Process

We follow a carefully structured installation process to ensure your block paving is perfectly laid, highly durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Our professional team takes care of everything from ground preparation to finishing touches, ensuring a flawless result.

Free Site Survey & Consultation

Every block paving project begins with a free consultation and site survey. We assess:

• The size and shape of the area.
• The ground conditions and any necessary groundwork.
• Your design preferences, including colours and patterns.
• Any drainage requirements to ensure compliance with regulations.

This initial assessment ensures we provide a bespoke design that meets your needs and budget.

Ground Preparation & Excavation

Proper preparation is crucial for a long-lasting block paving installation. Our team:

• Excavates the area to the correct depth, ensuring a stable base.
• Installs a high-quality sub-base, typically using MOT Type 1 hardcore.
• Compacts the sub-base to create a solid foundation that prevents sinking.

This step ensures the paving remains level, strong, and free from movement over time.

Laying the Blocks

Once the groundwork is complete, we carefully lay the paving blocks in your chosen pattern and colour scheme. We ensure:

• Precision placement for even spacing and a professional finish.
• Alignment with existing driveways, patios, or landscaping.
• High-quality sand is brushed into the joints to secure the blocks in place.

Sanding & Compacting the Surface

To lock the blocks together, we apply fine kiln-dried sand between the joints, followed by compacting the surface. This process:

• Prevents the blocks from shifting or loosening over time.
• Helps improve structural integrity and durability.
• Ensures the surface is smooth, stable, and even.

5. Sealing & Finishing Touches

For added protection, we offer sealing options to keep your block paving looking great for years to come. Sealing provides:

• Resistance to oil stains, moss, and algae growth.
• Additional protection against weathering and colour fading.
• A more vibrant, polished finish for long-term aesthetic appeal.

Block Paving Driveway Cost

Our block paving driveway cost is highly competitive, offering you the very best value for money. Our driveways are built using high quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. We understand that choosing a new driveway can be an expensive decision, but with our affordable prices and expert craftsmanship, we guarantee you will be satisfied with your purchase.

We source only the best quality materials and use experienced teams of professionals to construct your dream driveway. This ensures that all of our driveways are long lasting and durable enough to withstand even the toughest of weather conditions and regular use. We also offer a wide range of customisation options so you can customise your driveway exactly how you want it, making sure it perfectly suits your home’s style.

Our block paving prices are highly competitive and we guarantee you won't find better prices anywhere else in the industry. We understand that budget can be a major factor when it comes to purchasing a driveway, so we take extra care to ensure you get the best value for money possible.

Contact us today if you’re looking for block paving prices and let us give your home a stunning new makeover with our block paving driveways. Our team of professionals will provide you with friendly advice and help you pick out the perfect block paving solution at a great price. With our block paving driveway installations in Nottingham, your dreams of having an appealing driveway could be just around the corner!

The Importance of a Strong Sub-Base for Block Paving

When installing a block paving driveway, patio, or pathway, most homeowners focus on the visible aspects – the colours, patterns, and style of the paving blocks. While these are essential for aesthetics, the true strength and longevity of your block paving depend on what lies beneath: the sub-base.

The sub-base is the foundation layer that supports your block paving, ensuring it remains level, stable, and durable for years to come. Without a properly prepared sub-base, driveways can suffer from sinking, shifting, cracks, and poor drainage, leading to costly repairs in the future.

At Professional Gardeners Of Nottingham , we take great care in preparing a strong and compacted sub-base for every block paving installation. Using high-quality materials like MOT Type 1 hardcore, we create a solid foundation that prevents movement, enhances drainage, and withstands heavy loads.

Want to learn more about why the sub-base is the key to a long-lasting driveway? Read our in-depth guide on Sub-Base for Block Paving – The Key to a Durable Driveway to understand its importance and how we ensure a professionally installed, long-lasting surface.

Block Paving Patterns

Block paving is a versatile and attractive form of hard landscaping, with many different patterns to choose from. One of the most popular block paving patterns is Herringbone, which creates an interlocking ‘V’ shape pattern. This classic style has been used for centuries in garden paths and patios, as well as for large-scale projects such as roads and highways.

Another classic block paving pattern is Basketweave, which features two sets of bricks arranged in alternate lines to create a checkerboard-style design. This type of pattern works particularly well on larger areas where its geometric effect can be appreciated fully. It also makes it easier to install curves or radiuses into pathways or driveways when using this pattern.

Another option is the 'Stretcher Bond' pattern, which is a popular choice for driveways and pathways due to its low cost of installation and maintenance. It consists of laying the blocks flat in neat rows, with each block slightly overlapping its neighbour to form a continuous line. This type of design works well for areas that experience heavy foot traffic as it creates an even surface that can withstand more wear and tear over time.

Lastly, there’s the ‘Stack Bond’ pattern which is similar to Stretcher Bond but instead of overlapping adjacent bricks, they are laid side-by-side in straight lines for a contemporary look. While this creates a nice visual effect, it does not provide the same level of stability as Stretcher Bond and is therefore not recommended for areas that experience heavy foot traffic.

No matter what pattern you choose, it’s important to remember block paving should be laid only by an experienced professional in order to ensure a high-quality finish. At the same time, regular maintenance such as cleaning and resealing your driveway can help to keep it looking its best for years to come. With the right care and attention, block paving can transform an outdoor space into a beautiful feature that will last for many years.

Block Paving Driveway Ideas

When it comes to driveways, one of the most popular materials used is block paving. This is because it offers a variety of options for customising the look and feel of your driveway. With all the different colours, styles and textures available in today’s market, you can easily create a unique driveway that will fit in perfectly with your home’s exterior design scheme. Here are some great block paving driveway ideas to help you get started:

Create a patterned effect: 

Going with an interesting pattern or design on your drive can add interest to an otherwise plain area. Consider laying out alternating blocks at various angles and sizes to create an eye-catching arrangement. You could also use two or even three different colours or textures to make your driveway really stand out.

Consider a calming colour:

The shade of your paving blocks can have a huge impact on the overall look and feel of your driveway. Opting for light, natural shades such as beige or grey can result in an inviting and calming tone that will bring a sense of peace to the area.

Incorporate lighting elements: 

Adding lighting features to your drive can give it an extra touch of elegance and create a warm ambiance after dark. You could opt for soft ground lighting around the edges of the pavers, or add some uplighters that shine up from below onto the patterned areas.

Make use of curved edges: 

Instead of a straight, utilitarian driveway design, you can create a much more interesting look by incorporating some curves into the layout. This could be through sweeping arcs or meandering pathways that give your drive an extra dimension and make it stand out from the crowd.

Consider adding gravel:

If you want to add texture and depth to your driveway, consider introducing a layer of gravel around the edges of the pavement blocks. This will provide subtle contrast and break up any blocky lines to create a much softer overall aesthetic. It can also help with drainage if used in areas where water often pools – keeping your path looking its best all year round!

Incorporate planting:

Introducing some plants alongside your paving blocks can be a great way to add more life and colour to your driveway. Choose some hardy shrubs or ground covering plants like alpines that don’t require much maintenance and won’t take over the space too quickly.

Add raised beds:

You can create raised beds around the edge of your drive, using wooden sleepers or bricks filled with soil and compost. This is an effective way to inject height into the design while providing additional planting opportunities at different levels – perfect for adding extra interest and texture! 

Use interesting shapes:

If you want a traditional look but want to give it a modern twist, why not introduce some interesting shapes into the paving? Try using circles, triangles or hexagons to add a unique pattern or texture that will give your driveway a modern feel.

Utilise different colours: 

By choosing different colours of paving blocks you can inject more personality into the design and create something that stands out from the crowd. Try incorporating two or three shades of block paving, either by mixing them up or laying down strips in alternating colours – this is a great way to add depth and interest to your driveway!

Add landscaping: 

You can also enhance the appearance of your block paving driveway by adding some low-maintenance plants and flowers around the edges. This is a great way to bring a bit of nature into the design and will help soften any hard lines in the overall look. Also consider incorporating stepping stones for extra detail and texture.

Enhance with decorative edging: 

To really add a touch of class to your driveway, why not line it with some ornamental edging? There are lots of different styles available from traditional cobbles to more intricate mosaics that will give your driveway an elegant finish – perfect for entertaining guests or providing a nice entrance to your home!

Invest in quality materials:

When it comes to block paving, always opt for quality over quantity. Cheaper options may look attractive at first but won’t last as long so you will likely need to replace them sooner rather than later. It's also best to use concrete blocks as they provide more stability than regular bricks.

Maintain regularly:

Block paving driveways require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition and looking their best. That includes sweeping away any loose dirt and debris, removing weeds as soon as they sprout up and resealing the driveway every few years.

Incorporate steps:

Steps are a great way to add texture and interest to your driveway, as well as providing an easy route up or down the slope. You can opt for a single large step spanning multiple levels or several smaller steps to create more of an impact.

Permeable Block Paving

Permeable block paving is a type of surfacing material designed to allow water to pass through it and soak into the ground beneath. It consists of specially designed blocks with gaps between them, allowing water to flow freely through the surface. As well as providing an effective drainage solution, permeable block paving can also help reduce flooding and improve air quality by reducing run-off pollutants entering rivers and streams. Permeable block paving is also environmentally friendly because it allows rainwater to be absorbed by plants or directly into the groundwater instead of being directed into drains and waterways. In addition to its environmental benefits, permeable block paving can also provide a decorative finish for driveways, paths, or patios due to its range of different textures and sizes available. 

Overall, permeable block paving is an attractive, effective, and environmentally friendly option for both domestic and commercial areas. It can help to alleviate flooding issues as well as provide a decorative surface that is easy to maintain. With its many advantages, it’s easy to see why this type of paving is becoming increasingly popular.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Block Paving

Helping You Make the Right Choice for Your Driveway or Patio

Choosing block paving for your driveway, patio, or pathway is a great investment, but it’s natural to have questions before making a decision. We’ve compiled this comprehensive FAQ section to help you understand everything you need to know about block paving, from its durability to maintenance and costs.

Do I need planning permission for a block paving driveway?

Planning permission is usually not required if the driveway uses permeable paving or has adequate drainage to prevent surface water runoff. However, if non-permeable materials are used without proper drainage solutions, planning permission may be needed to comply with local regulations.

It is always best to check with your local planning authority before installation.

How much does block paving cost?

The cost of block paving depends on factors such as materials, labour, and design complexity. On average:

• Standard block paving costs between £80 to £120 per square metre, including installation.
• Premium materials like natural stone can increase the price.
• Custom designs, patterns, or edging features will add to the overall cost.

We offer Free quotes that are available to help homeowners budget for their block paving projects.

How long does block paving last?

A well-installed and properly maintained block paving surface can last over 20 years. Its longevity depends on:

• The quality of the installation, as a strong sub-base ensures the paving does not sink or shift.
• The type of blocks used, with clay and natural stone lasting longer than concrete.
• Regular maintenance, such as occasional jet washing and re-sanding, to keep the structure intact.

Choosing a trusted professional installer ensures your block paving remains in great condition for decades.

How do you clean block paving?

Block paving is a great way to add a modern look and feel to driveways or patios. However, like all hard surfaces, block paving can become dirty over time. To keep your driveway looking its best and safe for walking on, it's important to clean it regularly.

There are several ways you can clean block paving:

1. High-pressure washing – high pressure washing with an appropriate cleaner is the most effective way to remove dirt from block paving quickly. Make sure to wear protective clothing such as long trousers and gloves when using the machine as the water may be hot in some cases.

2. Hand cleaning – if you don’t have access to a pressure washer, hand cleaning with a brush is an effective way to remove dirt and grime. Use a stiff brush and some detergent or patio cleaner, then scrub gently with circular motions.

3. Using a chemical cleaner – chemical cleaners are specifically made for outdoor surfaces such as block paving, but be sure to read the instructions carefully before use. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how much of the product to use and how long it should sit on the blocks before being washed off.

No matter which method you choose, it’s important to rinse off any cleaning products afterward with plenty of clean water to avoid staining or discolouration. If your driveway has unsightly moss or algae growth, try applying a fungicidal wash for the best results. Finally, use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the surface in circular motions and rinse off any remaining dirt or grime. After this is all done, your block paving should be looking as good as new!

Does block paving need sealing?

Sealing your block paving can help protect against water damage and staining, making it easier to remove any dirt or grime that accumulates over time. It also acts as an additional barrier giving added protection from the elements and helping to reduce fading or discolouration due to sun exposure.

If you decide to seal your block paving, be sure to use a quality sealant designed specifically for this type of surface. This will help ensure the best possible results and will help protect your investment. Remember to always follow manufacturer instructions when applying sealant, as this can affect the durability and effectiveness of the product.

It is also important to remember that you may need to seal your block paving on a regular basis. Depending on exposure, climate, and various other factors, you may need to reseal your driveway every few years or so in order to maintain its condition. Be sure to check regularly for any signs of wear and tear, such as fading or discolouration, which could indicate it’s time to apply a new coat of sealant.

Overall, block paving is an excellent choice for driveways due to its long-lasting durability and easy maintenance. With proper care and regular sealing, it can continue to look great for many years to come.

How can I prevent weeds from growing between my block paving?

Weeds can grow in the joints of block paving if not properly maintained. To prevent this:

• Use high-quality jointing sand to fill the gaps and prevent weeds from taking root.
• Apply a sealant to create a protective layer and stop seeds from settling.
• Use a weed killer once or twice a year for stubborn growth.
• Jet wash carefully to avoid washing away too much jointing sand.

If you take note of these steps, weed growth can be kept to a minimum.

Why is block paving better than tarmac or concrete?

Block paving offers several advantages over tarmac or concrete:

• It allows for greater customisation, with a wide range of colours, textures, and patterns to match your property’s style.
• It is easier to repair, as damaged blocks can be replaced without needing to resurface the entire area.
• It provides better drainage, as water can drain between the joints, reducing the risk of standing water and flooding.
• It has a longer lifespan compared to tarmac, which could crack over time due to temperature changes.

What causes block paving to sink, and how can it be prevented?

Sinking block paving is often caused by an improperly prepared sub-base. Common causes include:

• A weak foundation where the base layer is too thin or not compacted properly.
• Heavy vehicles parked on paving that is not designed for high loads.
• Poor drainage, leading to water pooling beneath the paving and weakening the foundation.

To prevent sinking our professional block paving installers:

• Excavate to the correct depth, typically at least 150mm for driveways.
• Use high-quality MOT Type 1 hardcore to create a solid sub-base.
• Compact the base properly in layers to ensure long-term stability.

Have More Questions? Get Expert Advice Today!

Still have questions about block paving? Professional Gardeners of Nottingham is here to help! Whether you’re looking for a new driveway installation, maintenance tips, or a free quote, we’re happy to assist.

Get Your FREE Block Paving Driveway Consultation & No-Obligation Quote Today!

At Professional Gardeners Of Nottingham, we understand that choosing the right driveway solution is an important decision for any homeowner. That’s why we offer a FREE, no-obligation consultation and quotation to help you explore your options with expert guidance.

Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s kerb appeal, create a durable and stylish outdoor space, or replace an old, worn-out driveway, our experienced team is here to help. We’ll assess your space, discuss your preferences, and provide a detailed quote with transparent pricing—no hidden fees, no pressure, just honest advice.

Take the first step toward your stunning new block paving driveway today.

Call us now on

0115-824-4801

To schedule your free consultation

Or request your no-obligation quote online by filling out our on-page contact form, and one of our staff will call you within 24 hours

 Let’s bring your vision to life!