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Block paving driveways in Crawley

Hard wearing, repairable, and a familiar sight on Crawley's estates.

Block paving is laid on sand over a compacted stone sub-base, with edging kerbs to stop it spreading. It is one of the most popular choices in Crawley, from replacing a tired new town drive to widening a drive for a second car.

Permeable block paving, cross-sectionLayers from top: permeable concrete blocks 80 mm with grit-filled joints, 2 to 6 mm grit laying course 50 mm, open-graded 4/20 stone base about 100 mm, Type 3 sub-base about 150 mm, geotextile, ground. Rain soaks through the joints. Rain soaks through every layer into the groundPermeable blocks, grit joints80 mmGrit laying course (2 to 6 mm)50 mmOpen-graded stone base (4/20)about 100 mmType 3 sub-baseabout 150 mmGeotextile membraneGround
Permeable block paving, cross-section. Standard blocks on sand and Type 1 look the same from above but are not permeable, so they need a linear channel drain at the boundary. Typical build-up only. Your installer will confirm the specification for your site.

Drainage options

Standard blocks are not permeable, so the drive must fall to a channel drain at the boundary. On clay, the channel usually feeds a soakaway or, where allowed, an existing drain. Permeable block paving is another route, but on heavy clay it may still need a drainage outlet.

Drainage on Crawley clay. Heavy clay soils are common across much of Crawley, and water soaks away through clay slowly. A soakaway that works on sandy ground may struggle here, so ask your installer how they will deal with rainwater, and whether they have tested how well your ground drains.

Pros and cons

  • Blocks can be lifted and relaid after repairs or cable work
  • Many colours and patterns
  • Joints need occasional weeding and resanding

Rough cost

Per m², supplied and laid£65 to £110
Time on site3 to 7 days

Breaking out, drainage and a dropped kerb are extra. See the cost guide.

Common questions

Can I widen my drive with block paving?

Yes, but a wider drive may need a longer dropped kerb, which needs a new licence.

Is permeable block paving worth it on clay?

It can be, with a proper outlet for the water. Ask your installer.

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