Frequently Asked Questions

Why do driveways sink?

Driveways sink for a number of reasons. The first being that the area has not been dug out deep enough, sometimes the dolomite may be the incorrect type, the sand may be the incorrect type or too deep, the edges and front not kerbed or have enough concrete to hold everything in place, or finally it has not been whacked enough times or the whacker is too lightweight.

How do I stop weeds growing in my driveway?

If the area is done correctly the weeds don't come from underneath as there is too much aggregates to let water or sunlight through which weeds need to grow. Infact, they are brough by bird droppings or wind and bed in the joints of the dry kiln sand. Weeds shouldn't be seen for the first 3-4 years.

What maintenance does my driveway need?

I usually tell customers to leave it alone for a couple of weeks, no excess water and let the rain clean it. After that it should be fine. After 3 years go out 1 day a year and give it a good wash and brush to clean and replenish the dry kiln sand.

What is the difference laying a driveway on concrete?

Concrete and dolomite should both be laid on a solid surface and if well whacked won't sink. We have laid on dolomite for 16 years and have had no problems so far. If the customer insists on concrete that is no problem at an extra cost.

Do you lower kerbs?

We used to, byt unfortunately due to the change in health and safety we can't now as we do not hold the necessary tickets to do so.

How long is your waiting list?

From May to September our waiting list is anywhere between 4-10 weeks, but October to April as little as 2-8 weeks. There is always a rush when Spring arrives.

How long does it take to lay a driveway?

We are hard working and as punctual as possible, arrive on time and get in and out A.S.A.P. to minimise disruption and nuisance to yourselves and neighbours.

Have you done any jobs locally?

I have undertaken many contracts in the North East and will provide you with a list of drives to view locally with your estimate.

How long before a new driveway can be driven on?

As soon as the concrete sets, 36-72 hours. If no concrete is needed i.e. wall-wall, then immediately.

Is planning permission required?

Planning permission is not usually necessary, as long as the surface water soaks into our own land, i.e. lawn, gravel or goes into your own drains. Neither if your area has been hardscaped previously. If the water is heading for the public drains (adding to flooding problems) then the council may need contacting and the permeable option looked at. Different councils have different options.

Do you guarantee your driveways?

Yes, all our work is guaranteed for 10 years against spreading or sinking.

Is drainage required on a new driveway?

Each contract offers a different set of needs, with some needing aico grid drainage to take the water into existing drains.

Is a deposit required?

No, every contract is only to be paid after completion when full customer satisfaction is achieved.

Will the weather affect you working?

We work all year around and the British weather can make it very testing. Heavy rain, snow and severe frosts can cuse a halt to work.

Which blocks are most suitable for my driveway?

If dolomite and edges are installed correctly, all blocks should be as good as each other, it is all about the subbase opposed to the materials that are laid.

Do you seal driveways?

We will seal drives, but with no guarantee on the sealant. There are many suppliers and products on the market and some need 2 coats, some make it slippy, some a gloss effect and others may wash off. Until now, we have found the Thompsons one coat to be the best available.

What is a permeable driveway?

This is where the blocks have a wider spacer to allow the water through which stops it going over the top, but down the gays and soak away underneath. We have to use type 3 dolomite opposed to type 1, 5-10mm gravel opposed to sharp sand and 2-5mm gravel opposed to dry kiln sand.