5 Common Driveway & Patio Mistakes!
A new driveway or patio can be a fantastic investment for your home. It can boost your curb appeal, create a wonderful outdoor living space, and even add value to your property. But before you get carried away with visions of summer barbecues and pristine parking, it’s important to be aware of the common pitfalls that can turn your dream project into a costly nightmare.
Here at Towergate Builders, we’ve seen it all. We’ve been called in to rescue countless projects that have gone wrong, and we want to help you get it right the first time. So, here are the five most common mistakes we see people make with their driveways and patios – and how to avoid them.
1. Skimping on the Sub-base
It’s what’s underneath that counts – and nowhere is this truer than with a new driveway or patio. The sub-base is the foundation of your paved area, and if it’s not done right, it can lead to all sorts of problems from sinkings slabs to cracking and shifting.
A good sub-base should be made of quality aggregate, be deep enough to support the weight of vehicles (for a driveway), and be properly compacted. It’s not the most glamorous part of the job, but it’s arguably the most important.
Here at Towergate Builders and Developers, we’ve been called to a number of jobs where the homeowner has only had their driveway or patio for a few years, yet there are clear signs of sinking, cracking and shifting throughout!
2. Forgetting Proper Drainage
As I’m sure you know, we’re no strangers to a bit of rain here in Kent! That’s why proper drainage is absolutely essential for any paved area. Without it, you could end up with pools of standing water, which can damage the paving, cause damp issues for your home, and create slip hazards in winter.
A professionally laid patio or driveway (like any paved area completed by our team at Towergate!) will have a slight slope to allow water to run off, as well as appropriate drainage channels to carry the water away from your property. This is a crucial step that is often overlooked in DIY projects (believe me, we’ve seen it all!).
3. Choosing The Wrong Materials
With the large variety of paving options on the market, it can be tempting to go for the cheapest or easiest option. However, choosing the right material is about more than just the price.
For example, a modern porcelain patio might look out of place with a traditional Kentish cottage, while a natural sandstone might be the perfect fit. It’s also important to choose a material that is durable enough to withstand the British weather and the weight of your vehicles.
At Towergate, we pride ourselves on providing free quotes and advice, using our expertise to help you decide on the perfect driveway. We understand that although everyone has an idea of what they exactly want, we will hopefully help broaden your horizons with our knowledge.
4. Poor Pointing Job
Pointing is the material that fills the gaps between your paving slabs. It’s a small detail, but it can make a big difference to the overall look and durability of your patio or driveway. A poor pointing job can lead to weeds growing through the cracks, loose slabs, and a generally untidy appearance.
A professional will use the right materials and techniques to ensure your pointing is neat, durable, and long-lasting.
5. Not Hiring A Professional
You’d be surprised at how many times we’ve been called to help, fix, or even completely re-do entire projects because the homeowners realised they bit off more than they can chew! In the age of YouTube tutorials, it can be tempting to think you can save a few pounds by going the DIY route. But when it comes to a major project like a new driveway or patio, it’s always best to call in the professionals.
A reputable company (like Towergate Builders!) will have the experience, expertise, and equipment to get the job done right. We can advise you on the best materials for your project, ensure the sub-base and drainage are up to scratch, and provide a finish that will stand the test of time.
We hope this has been a helpful insight into the mistakes that we see all too often in the driveway and patio world. If you’re planning any type of outdoor renovation, whether that be a resin, gravel or block paved driveway, to a porcelain, natural stone or sandstone patio, we are here to help! Get in touch via the contact page or by giving us a call on 07770 047477!
