Pavers + curbs price

Paving is one of the most popular choices for paving exterior areas, whether it's sidewalks, driveways, patios or yards. This article focuses on the process of laying interlocking pavers, the factors affecting its price and the cost of the job.

Interlocking paving is a specific type of paving that consists of individual shaped blocks (called interlocking) that fit together. These blocks are mainly made of concrete, but versions in natural stone or other materials are also available. Thanks to their strength, durability and wide range of shapes and colours, interlocking paving is a popular solution for reinforcing outdoor areas.

The price of paving is influenced by several factors. One of the most significant is the choice of material. Concrete interlocking paving is the most affordable and cost-effective, with prices ranging from £20 to £60 per square metre depending on the thickness and quality of the paving. On the other hand, paving made of natural stone or a special concrete composite can cost between  £60 to £120 per square metre. The choice of material depends on aesthetic preferences, load requirements of the area and budget.

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The complexity of the terrain and substrate preparation are other key factors influencing costs. When laying on flat ground, the process is relatively simple, but if the ground is sloping, uneven or requires drainage treatments, preparation costs can rise by 20-40%. Subgrade preparation involves removing the existing surface, leveling the ground, placing a layer of gravel or macadam, and then compacting, which can account for up to 50% of the total project cost.

Labour is another important factor that influences price. The cost of labour varies depending on the region, the experience of the workers and the scope of the project. In urban areas where wages are higher, prices for paving are around £35 to £70 per square metre, while in smaller towns and rural areas the cost can be lower. For special projects, such as installing paving with a complex pattern or in a location with limited access, the price can increase by up to 30-50%.

The location of the project also plays an important role in determining costs. In urban areas, where material and service prices are higher, the total cost of paving can increase by 15-25% compared to rural areas. In addition, the price can increase depending on the availability of space, the difficulty of transporting materials, and the need for special equipment.

Statistics show that the demand for interlocking paving is growing, especially in the context of the modernisation of public spaces and garden landscaping. According to estimates, the market for interlocking paving is expected to grow at 4-6% per annum over the next five years, supported by an increase in construction and renovation in both urban and rural areas.

The procedure for laying interlocking paving

Planning and preparation: the first step is to thoroughly plan and prepare the area. It is necessary to accurately measure and mark the area where the paving will be laid and determine the necessary height and gradient. This is followed by the removal of the existing surface, such as grass, old concrete or other material, and the preparation of the sub-base. The sub-base usually consists of gravel or macadam, which needs to be spread evenly and compacted.

Installing edge kerbs: Before the actual paving, it is important to install edge kerbs to ensure the stability of the entire area. The kerbs are fixed into the concrete bed to prevent them from shifting under pressure and load.

Spreading and compacting the sand bed: A layer of sand is spread on the prepared sub-base to form the bed for the paving itself. The sand must be evenly distributed and compacted to ensure stability and evenness of the surface. The optimum thickness of the sand bed varies between 1.2 and 2 inches (3 and 5 cm).

Paving: the actual laying of the paving starts from one of the corners or edges of the marked area. The pavers shall be laid side by side with a minimum of gaps, taking care to maintain the plane and pattern. During laying, the tiles shall be gently set into the sand bed and their height and slope shall be checked continuously.

Joint filling and compaction: after all the tiles have been laid, the joints between them are filled with fine sand, which is swept into the joints until they are completely filled. The whole area is then thoroughly compacted using a vibrating plate, which ensures the stability and consolidation of the tiles. After compaction, the joints are again backfilled to ensure that they are fully filled.

Finishing and finishing: Finally, finishing work is carried out, such as cleaning the surface of the pavement of any remaining sand and minor dirt. If there are small irregularities or deviations in the paving, these may be gently adjusted.

The laying of interlocking paving is a detailed and progressively sophisticated process that involves a number of phases, from planning and preparation of the substrate to the final completion and surface treatment. The cost of this work is influenced by the choice of material, the complexity of the terrain, subgrade preparation, labour costs and the location of the project. With the growing demand for aesthetic and durable solutions for exteriors, it is important to consider all of these factors when planning a paver project.

Preparation:

1. Planning: think about the layout of the tiles, patterns and colour combinations before starting work. Draw a plan on paper to give you an idea of the material requirements and the overall look.
2. Choice of material: choose quality interlocking paving and kerbs from a reputable manufacturer. Ensure that the paving is of a thickness and type suitable for the intended load (walkway, patio, driveway).
3. Field preparation: Remove all unnecessary material, weeds and spices from the paving site. Level and compact the ground with a vibratory plate.
4. Excavating the base layer: dig a base layer at a depth of approx. 5.9–7.9 inches (15-20 cm), which will serve as a base for the paving. The width of the base layer should match the width of the paving and kerbs.
5. Laying kerbs: Set the kerbs in the concrete bed along the edges of the area to be paved. Ensure that the kerbs are level and at the same height.
6. Compaction of the base: After installing the curbs, compact the subgrade with a vibratory plate.
7. Laying the kerb: If you wish, you can lay a kerb of paving stones or other material around the perimeter of the paving.

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Laying of interlocking pavement:

1. Preparation of the bed: Place a layer of aggregate with a fraction size of 0.16–0.31 inches (4-8 mm) on the compacted base, approximately 2 inches (5 cm) thick. Compact the bed again with a vibratory plate.

1. Laying the paving: start laying the paving from the edge of the kerbs. Lay the pavers in straight rows, making sure to keep the same joints between them. Use a spirit level and mason's string to check the level and height of the paving.
2. Cutting out tiles: in places where the tiles do not fit exactly, the tiles need to be adjusted by cutting. Use a grinder with a diamond blade to cut the tiles.
3. Joint filling: After laying the entire paving surface, fill the joints between the tiles with sand mixed with cement. Sweep the sand into the joints and compact it with a vibrating plate.
4. Finishing: After compacting the sand in the joints, rinse the pavement with water to remove excess sand. Once the paving has dried, you can treat the surface with an impregnation to prolong its life and resistance to soiling.

Important tips:

• When selecting paving, consider the climatic conditions and the type of load to which the paving will be subjected.
• Follow the recommended joints between the tiles to prevent cracking.
• Wear protective gloves and goggles when working with tiles.
• If necessary, contact a professional paving contractor to help you with paving and curb installation.

Conclusion: laying paving stones and fitting kerbs is a difficult job that requires skill and patience.

Suitable kerbs and types of interlocking paving

Choosing the right kerbs and type of interlocking paving is important to achieve an aesthetic and functional look for your paving. You should consider the following factors when making your selection:

Type and purpose of paving:

Sidewalks: for sidewalks, it is recommended to use smaller pavers with a thickness of 0.8–1.6 inches (2-4 cm) and kerbs with a height of 8–12 inches (20-30 cm). Suitable paving types are, for example, concrete paving, interlocking paving with a concrete surface or paving made of burnt stone. The kerbs should be colour-coordinated with the paving and should have a straight or slightly rounded profile.

Terraces: for terraces, it is recommended to use larger tiles 1.6–2.4 inches (4-6 cm) thick and curbs 12–16 inches (30-40 cm) high. Suitable paving types are, for example, concrete paving, interlocking paving with a stone surface or terracotta paving. The kerbs should be robust and fit in with the overall design of the terrace.

Driveways: for driveways, it is recommended to use paving with a thickness of 2.4 inches (6 cm) or more and kerbs with a height of 16–20 inches (40-50 cm). Suitable paving types are, for example, high-strength concrete paving, interlocking paving made of vibrated concrete or paving made of basalt. The kerbs should be impact resistant and have a thick profile.

Material of kerbs:

• Concrete kerbs: these are the most common type of kerb and are available in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes. They are durable and affordable.
• Granite kerbstones: made of natural stone, they are characterised by their high strength and elegant appearance. They are more expensive than concrete kerbs.
• Road kerbs: they are made of vibrated concrete and are suitable for driveways and car parks. They are abrasion-resistant and have a non-slip surface.
• Palisades: made of wood, metal or plastic, they are used to border flowerbeds, slopes and walkways.

The material of the interlocking pavement:

• Concrete paving: It is the most common type of interlocking paving and is available in a variety of colours, shapes and sizes. It is durable and affordable.
• Pavement made of vibrocast concrete: It has a stone surface and is suitable for patios and driveways. It is abrasion resistant and has a non-slip surface.
• Burnt stone paving: it has a rustic look and is suitable for walkways and terraces. It is weather-resistant and has low water absorption.
• Terracotta paving: it has a warm reddish-brown colour and is suitable for terraces and gardens. It is resistant to sunlight and has low water absorption.

In addition to these factors, you should also consider the following when choosing kerbs and paving:

• The overall design of your garden or house
• Your budget
• Local climatic conditions

We recommend that you visit specialist paving material stores where experts can help you choose the right kerbs and paving.

Calculate the price of construction works