Clay swells when it is wet and shrinks when it is dry, and paving laid on a thin base moves with it. We dig down, compact crushed rock in layers and set the fall so water runs off the paving and away from the house. On top goes whatever suits the garden: bluestone, concrete pavers, recycled brick, or a compacted gravel path with a steel edge. On slopes we build steps with even risers so the path is comfortable to walk.
What is included
- Excavation and removal of soil and old paving
- Compacted crushed rock base, at least 100 mm deep
- Falls set so water drains away from the house
- Pavers or stone laid, cut and jointed
- Steel, brick or timber edge to hold gravel in place
- Steps with even risers where the path meets a slope
How we do it
-
Set out and levels
We mark the path with string, check the levels and agree the finished height against doors and lawn.
-
Dig and compact
Soil is dug out and crushed rock is compacted in layers with a plate compactor.
-
Lay the surface
Pavers or stone are laid on a bedding layer, cut to fit at the edges and jointed.
-
Clean up and cure
The area is swept and washed. We tell you how long to keep off it, usually two days.
Signs you need this
- Pavers have sunk, lifted or rock underfoot
- Puddles sit against the house after rain
- The track to the shed or clothesline turns to mud in winter
- Gravel has spread into the lawn and garden beds
- A sloping path is slippery or awkward to walk down
Show us the garden.
The first visit is free and takes about 45 minutes. You get a written quote within three working days.