Common jobs
| Job | When it makes sense |
|---|---|
| Widening | Two cars, or a car and a van, no longer fit side by side |
| Re-laying block paving | Ruts and dips where the cars park, edges creeping |
| Replacing tarmac or concrete | Cracking, potholes or a surface that holds puddles |
| Resurfacing in resin | A sound base that just needs a better finish |
Widening a drive
A wider drive usually means a wider crossing. That is a new application to the council, and widening is priced on the site. Plan the extra width before choosing the surface, so the drive and kerb line up. Our guide to widening a driveway goes through the steps.
Re-laying sunken blocks
Block drives from the 1980s and 1990s often show their age in the parking spots. If the blocks are in good condition, they can be lifted, the sub-base rebuilt, and the same blocks relaid. That keeps the colour matched, which is hard to do with new blocks next to old ones.
Garages
Many High Grange garages are too small for a modern car and get used for storage instead. If that is the case, the drive in front of the garage is effectively your parking space, so it is worth making it the full length and width you need.
Upgrading the look
Resin over a sound, porous base gives a smooth, modern finish. A contrasting border in block paving can tie in a wider drive and disguise where old meets new.
Common questions
Do I need permission to widen?
Widening the crossing needs the council's approval. The drive itself usually does not need planning permission if it is permeable.
Can new blocks match my old ones?
Rarely exactly. Relaying the originals, or adding a contrasting border, usually looks better.
Can resin go over my old drive?
Sometimes, if the base is sound and porous. A survey should decide.
How long does a re-lay take?
A typical front drive is usually a few days' work.