Paving

Choosing the Right Paving for Your Garden, Patio or Driveway

At County Building Supplies, we supply paving slabs, block paving and landscaping materials for professional landscapers, builders and DIY customers. Whether you're creating a new patio, upgrading a driveway or installing garden pathways, choosing the right paving material is important for appearance, durability and long-term performance.

Porcelain vs Natural Stone vs Concrete Paving

Different paving materials offer different benefits depending on your project, budget and preferred finish.

• Porcelain paving: A popular choice for contemporary patios and outdoor living areas. Porcelain generally offers low water absorption and good resistance to staining, making it relatively easy to maintain. County stocks Cava Quartz porcelain paving in selected colours and finishes.
• Natural stone paving: Provides natural colour variations and textures, making it suitable for traditional and contemporary garden designs. Sandstone and limestone are popular choices, although maintenance requirements vary by stone type.
• Concrete paving: Offers a practical and often cost-effective option for patios, pathways and landscaped areas, with a range of sizes and finishes available.

When comparing paving slabs, consider the intended use, slip resistance, thickness, maintenance requirements and installation method.

Choosing Block Paving for Driveways

Block paving is commonly used for driveways, pathways and outdoor areas where a durable, attractive surface is required. County stocks A&G Country Cobbles in different sizes and colours, including Cashel and Slate.

For driveways, ensure the paving is suitable for vehicle traffic and installed over an appropriately designed and compacted sub-base. Correct drainage, edge restraints and jointing are also important for long-term performance.

Paving Jointing Compounds & Installation Accessories

Choosing the correct jointing product helps complete your paving installation and maintain the finished surface.

County stocks Azpects EASYJoint paving jointing compounds, EASYGrout porcelain slurry grout and EASYPrime high-bond slurry primer, alongside other paving accessories.

Different paving materials and installation methods require different jointing and priming products. Always check the manufacturer's guidance for compatibility, joint dimensions and application conditions.

How Much Paving Do You Need?

To calculate the paving required, multiply the length of your patio or driveway by its width to find the total area in square metres.

For example, a patio measuring 5m x 4m covers 20m². Allow additional material for cutting, breakages and the laying pattern, particularly where paving needs to fit around edges or obstacles.

Check whether your chosen paving is sold individually, by square metre or in packs, and use the stated coverage when ordering.

Preparing the Ground for Paving

Good ground preparation is essential for a long-lasting paved surface. The correct sub-base, bedding layer, drainage and jointing method depend on the paving material, ground conditions and expected loads.

Porcelain paving, natural stone slabs and block paving may require different installation techniques. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure the finished surface drains appropriately away from buildings.

Need Advice?

Not sure which paving slabs, blocks or installation accessories you need? Visit your local County Building Supplies branch or contact our team for advice on suitable materials, product availability and quantities for your project.