Paving ideas for Housing

Do you remember when all a paving area had to be was functional – something that got you from A to B as quickly as possible?

Now, when it comes to housing developments (new and existing) there are many more things to consider along with the paving e.g. SuDS schemes, art projects, accessibility, permeability and durability to name just a few. Let’s take a look at a few paving ideas for housing.

Purpose Is Key

The most important consideration when looking at paving options for housing is the purpose of the area that you want to pave. A busy driveway that may be used frequently by heavier vehicles requires a different specification of material to what would be used for a footpath in a quiet garden.

You may find it helpful to be as detailed as possible, right down to details such as the dimensions of the area. Whatever the purpose of the area, be accurate when taking measurements.

  • Identify the location and intended purpose (parking, driveway, patio, etc) of the area to be paved
  • Include accurate measurements of the area
  • Note current (if any) and projected traffic count
  • Consider the nature of the traffic – foot, vehicle (light/heavy), or mixed
  • Consider runoff from rain and melting snow as well as paving permeability and/or drainage
  • Identify safety issues, such as a slipping hazard if the area’s to be used by children and/or older people
  • Identify maintenance and repair options

If there are multiple areas of various use to be paved, consider using permeable paving of various types, especially if the areas are less than five square metres in size. Planning permission is not required for projects within the size limit.

Paving Style Ideas

The paving style you choose should complement the scheme of the home, be it modern or traditional. Here are a few styles, along with pros and cons, to consider:

Grass And Gravel Driveway

A gravel driveway broken by a strip of lawn oozes rustic charm, and it’s easy to create. However, the charm of a grass and gravel drive arguably is best left in the countryside – and even then, choosing it shouldn’t be a hasty decision. The gravel will shift over time, the edges of the grass strip will need to be kept neat, and weeds will need to be dealt with regularly. Furthermore, the uneven surface could make walking difficult, if not pose a falling hazard, for some people.

SureSet’s natural aggregate permeable paving options are a practical and attractive alternative to traditional gravel. Depending on your choice of aggregate, the surface will have something of the appearance of gravel. Unlike gravel, our resin bound paving will not shift, and it will not become a home to weeds.

Classic Brick Pavers

Brick pavers can be an attractive choice for driveways, walkways, pathways, and patios, especially if the scheme is traditional and lived in. Depending on the materials the pavers are made from, they can be durable, and they can be resistant to stains. They also are less slippery than paving options such as concrete.

It’s not all pros when it comes to brick pavers. Two of the biggest cons include maintenance, which may include regular weed treatments, and not being permeable, which means planning permission and drainage are required. SureSet resin bound paving is permeable, which means water drains away, rather than forming pools or running off.

Oyster Shells

If the project not only has a traditional scheme, but is also located at the coast, crushed oyster shells make an interesting alternative to traditional gravel or other paving options. If used for a driveway, you can create a similar design to the grass and gravel option above – and, like the gravel option, crushed oyster shells can be high-maintenance and a falling hazard.

Crushed shells needn’t be those things, thanks to SureSet’s recycled materials range of paving aggregates. Crushed oyster, lobster, crab, and scallop shells are among them. Bound by permeable resin, they’re permeable, low-maintenance, and not likely to shift anywhere. Please note that recycled material aggregates are not suitable for all projects, so please get in touch for more information.

Not just for driveways…

Don’t forget to think about the whole scheme when paving a housing area, the sides and rear of the properties are important too.   Not only will they need to compliment the front, but they are functional areas.  Pathways to the front door give a great first impression and can match the driveway or surrounding materials.  Follow it around the side and make a smooth surface for visitors, bikes, pushchairs or even getting the wheelie bins out.  Patio areas in the garden can also create a focal point and with the right lighting and furniture, the patio paving will stand out among the neighbours.

Here are a few ideas of how SureSet resin bound paving could help you…

  • A quick easy way to revitalise any paving is to lay SureSet over the top. SureSet can be laid over most existing paving including concrete and asphalt.
  • SureSet permeable paving can be incorporated into SuDS schemes. Even when it is installed onto a non-permeable base, SureSet allows surface water to drain away and be harvested or discharged into drains or soak-aways.
  • Harmonise with other materials such as block paving, brick, paving slabs, decking, gravel, crazy paving, pattern-imprinted concrete, sand-stone and granite setts.
  • Include art into the paving - read how SureSet resin bound paving was used for a public art installation on a new housing development in Wandsworth.
  • Make the paving more attractive by camouflaging unsightly drains and manhole covers for a smooth, accessible finish.
  • Create a clean finish up to any edge including kerbs, pin kerbs, plastic edging, wood and timber, marble setts or aluminium edging.
  • Including ramps into your paving improves access for everyone, particularly pushchairs, bicycles and wheelchair users.
  • SureSet permeable paving is a great alternative to unsightly metal grille tree pits which are prone to vandalism and provide the ideal place for litter to gather. A SureSet tree pit can cover protruding roots eliminating trip hazards, allows water to drain through, and provides flexibility for movement.
  • Including lights into paving creates a safer environment and provides a feeling of security for residents.

Here are some answers to questions we are frequently asked…

Do I need planning permission?
No, 2008 government legislation states that you do not need planning permission if the surface is permeable (or less than five square metres).    

Can I drive on SureSet?
Yes you can.    

Who installs SureSet?
All SureSet installations are carried out by our Installation Team or one of our Approved Installers or Global Partners.   

How long before you can drive on SureSet?
12-24 hours after installation.    

How long will SureSet last?
SureSet permeable paving comes with an 21 year guarantee, however our own experience and knowledge suggests it will last in excess of 25 years.    

How much does SureSet cost?
Each project is unique and so individually priced. All of our quotes are free, with no obligation and can be arranged by contacting us.    

What can SureSet be laid on?
SureSet can be laid on a new base and existing asphalt and concrete (in reasonable condition). More detailed information about suitable bases for SureSet can be downloaded on our website.

Read more about our Housing paving and download a brochure, maintenance guide or specifications.

Since the devastation of the 2007 floods, caused by surface water runoff and not over flowing rivers, permeable paving has never been so popular. Fully SuDS compliant SureSet permeable resin bound paving combines functionality, practicality and good looks.

If you have any other questions please just contact us and we will be happy to help – call on 0800 612 6501 or email us.    

Coming up next - Paving ideas for Gardens

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