The team at Lakestone Paving is capable of providing a number of bespoke services to our clients and thanks to years of experience, even the most challenging of projects will be completed within a timely fashion. However, it is always a good idea to illustrate our expertise by describing the outcome of projects which have been recently addressed. One shining example involves a large driveway paving project in Ramsbottom. Let’s take a closer look at what was involved as well as why yet another client walked away satisfied with the end results.

All About Thorough Preparation

The key to creating a functionally beautiful driveway always involves the initial steps that are required. Thus, our professionals spent a significant amount of time to prepare the existing driveway. We began by removing 12 inches of existing material (through the use of manual labour and assisted by tools such as mechanical jackhammers). This was crucial, as the older surface needed to be eliminated before the new tarmac could be put into place.

Once the previous layer was successfully removed, we then placed a membrane sheeting over the subsurface. There are several reasons why we often choose to use this type of sheeting:

  • It prevents weeds from protruding through the new tarmac surface
  • The overlying gravel can be kept clean and separate from the underlying soil
  • This material nonetheless allows natural elements (such as water) to permeate through to the soil below

This type of membrane sheet was laid in such a means as to cover the entire width of the driveway.

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The Addition of Gravel Stones

Once the steps above were successfully completed, we then laid ten inches of gravel stones directly atop the membrane sheet. These type-1 hard-core compressed stones were intended to provide a firm and level surface immediately below the tarmac coating. In order to reduce any voids and air pockets, our team used a heavy vibrating roller. The use of a mechanical roller also helped to cut down on the manual labour that would have otherwise been required.

Applying the Asphalt Surface

Of course, the application of tarmac can arguably represent one of the most important steps due to the fact that this material can provide any home with a stunning aesthetic appeal. There are several additional reasons why customers choose asphalt on occasion. Asphalt is one of the most cost-effective substances on the market, it requires very little maintenance and the application process itself is rather straightforward.

Piles of asphalt were placed in the middle of the driveway and our workers thereafter spread this material out until the surface was completely flat and uniform. Not only does this step require a significant amount of skill, but creating a flat surface will ensure that no water accumulates during periods of heavy rain.

Borders, Edging and Other Elements

One of the best ways to punctuate the appearance of any driveway is to create bespoke borders around its periphery. For this project, we chose to utilise block paving edging. These stones were used around the entire perimeter. These blocks were also used to create unique standalone elements such as a step to the front door and a removable drainage access panel on one side of the driveway.

Furthermore, our team added bullnose key curbs around the length of the driveway. These stones are intended to ensure that nearby gardens would not begin to encroach upon the new surface in the future. Finally, we added two additional inches of consolidated Industrial Paulus tarmac.

Addressing Challenges One Step at a Time

One of the unique aspects of this Ramsbottom driveway involved its dimensions. Furthermore, it was quite a large surface area when compared to some of our other projects. This is why it was important to develop a “game plan” from the very beginning. We therefore took the time to provide the customer with an in-depth consultation. Not only did this ensure that we appreciated the desires of the property owners, but it allowed them to ask any questions in regards to what would take place. This is the very same process that enables us to tackle projects of all sizes and dimensions.

All About Professional Levels of Precision

Lakestone Paving takes a great deal of pride in our experience and this latest project is yet another example of what customers can expect to enjoy when working in tandem with our team of trained professionals. Why we are quite pleased to provide a range of tarmac driveways, please keep in mind that you can choose from a host of other services including:

  • Decking
  • Fencing
  • Brickwork
  • Disabled entrances and accessways
  • Imprinted concrete surfaces
  • General landscaping
  • Patios

Please feel free to take a look at two short videos which highlight some of the steps involved with this project. You may also choose to browse through pictures that were taken during different phases. Above all, take a moment to contact one of our team members directly. We will be quite happy to discuss your options in greater detail.