Block Paving Or Imprinted Concrete for Your Driveway? You Choose
There are several different ways in which to lay adriveway or patio, and you can use a choice of different materials. Some of the most popular are pattern imprinted concrete and block paving, but what is the difference between the two, and which is the best?
At Base Driveways, we can provide you with the driveway or patio of your choice, but in order to make an informed decision you need to know about the different materials involved. Both block paving and imprinted concrete provide a more aesthetic appearance than simple plain concrete or something such as tarmac, and there are, of course, several other materials from which you could choose as well.
However, here are the differences. First, if you are concerned only about cost, then imprinted concrete will be a little less expensive than block paving in Kent. This is because there is a little less labour involved. A suitable sub-base is laid and then the concrete is poured over it. While the concrete is still wet, a pattern is imprinted on it to create the effect that you want.
On the other hand, block paving consists of individual bricks or blocks which are laid in a pattern of your choosing. You can also select the colour and material of the blocks as well as the design.
Both types of material will need a little maintenance. Imprinted concrete needs a sealant applied every three or four years, while block paving really only needs a brush and clean to keep it looking smart. However, with block paving you may also get crafty little weeds poking their heads up between the blocks, but you can keep on top of them by using a weed spray. With imprinted concrete you are very unlikely to get any weeds.
With block paving there is no need to provide any drainage as the blocks are classed as permeable. However, with imprinted concrete you have to incorporate drainage because it is non-permeable, and garden and patio regulations require it.
With block paving, if a block/brick gets damaged it is a simple matter to replace it. However, it is not so easy to repair concrete if it suffers damage, and the repair is likely to show up.
As specialists in the installation of driveways and patios, at Base Driveways we can install whichever you choose. Call us today to talk through your options.
