Block Paving Layer in Lunce's Common

Block Paving Layers in Lunce's Common — what to expect

For homeowners across Lunce’s Common, having a block paving installation carried out properly means the difference between a stable, long-lasting driveway and one that shifts, weeds, and puddles within a couple of winters. Local installers in the RH16 area typically begin by excavating to the correct depth, laying a compacted sub-base, and then screeding a grit sand bed onto which the blocks are laid, often in a herringbone bond for maximum structural strength on driveways, or a stretcher bond where a more linear, contemporary look is preferred. The finished project should always include concrete-haunched edge courses to lock the paving firmly in place, followed by a thorough plate compaction that sets the blocks into the sand, before kiln-dried jointing sand is brushed into the joints and compacted again to ensure the surface stays tight. For older or tired block paved areas in Lunce’s Common, a lift and relay service is particularly useful; rather than starting from scratch, the existing blocks are carefully lifted, the underlying sub-base is inspected and topped up if needed, and the blocks are then re-laid and re-compacted, which is an economical way to deal with sinking or uneven patches. Sealing is another worthwhile step, as a good quality sealant on the blocks helps to suppress weed growth, lock in the jointing sand, and simplify future cleaning, particularly in the damp, sheltered spots that can occur across East Sussex. When it comes to the joints themselves, many Lunce’s Common installers now prefer a polymeric jointing sand, which hardens once activated by water, making it more resistant to ants, weeds, and the kind of heavy rain that can wash out ordinary kiln-dried sand. As with any property improvement, it is worth the time to speak to a couple of local contractors, ask about their approach to preparation and compaction, and compare quotes before making a decision.