Paving FAQ’s

Is planning required for my driveway ?

Sandstone paving common questions & answers

Does paving need sealing after being laid down?
Sealing paving will bring about considerable benefits but ultimately it is a matter of preference. Many people find that after sealing, the paving will be protected against oil and other stains. Furthermore the fungicides found in the sealant may actually help prevent the growth of unwanted vegetation.(please not that sealing CANNOT be done for at least six months post installlation to make sure efflorescence is clear of the paving)

How do I get rid of the milky residue on my newly laid paving?
This white residue found on newly-laid paving is called efflorescence. This dust will actually wear off naturally within a couple of months. It will not affect the performance of the paving in any way but if you are concerned about the residue you can clean it off with a specialised block cleaner.

What is the best way to clean the paving?

The above mentioned block cleaner can be used together with a stiff scrubbing brush within the paving cleaning process in order to keep your new paving clean. It is always advisable to test the cleaning agent on a small amount of the paving before use, to check that it will act in the anticipated way.

How do I prevent weeds appearing in my new paving?

The best method for preventing weeds is regular maintenance but is is advisable to use weedkiller on the paving from time to time. You can buy weedkiller from any local garden centre. The instructions on the product will offer you preventative measures.

What is the best way to tackle oil and rust stains found on the paving?
Tackling paving stains will largely depend on the type of stain. Oil stains are some of the most common stain found on paving as paving is frequently used in driveways where motor vehicles are kept. It can very annoying to find that your car has leaked oil onto your new paving. The best thing to do if you find yourself in this situation is to treat the oil stain as soon as possible by using an absorbent powder, such as talcum powder, on the oil stain. You may then choose to use a commercial cleaning agent or some household detergent or emulsifier and a scrubbing brush. Rust stains are also a real headache as they are difficult to get rid of and can change the colour of the paving. The best bet here is to use a household detergent and a wire brush