We have a trusted team of Brett Approved Installers all over the UK who are experienced in the craft of installing our paving products for both garden and driveway renovations. However, we understand that some of our customers are eager to bring their ideas to life and install our products themselves. So, don’t worry, we’re here to support you every step of the way! To ensure you get the best experience from our materials, we’ve put together comprehensive installation guidance for each paving material – porcelain, concrete paving and block paving. So whether you want to know how to lay a patio or how to lay block paving, we’ve got you covered.
Remember, installing a patio or driveway with our high-quality paving products not only adds value to your property but also provides a sense of accomplishment and pride. We’re here to help you, every step of the way.
Brett products are beautiful materials, crafted to create your perfect patio. But like any design project, especially involving heavy products, you should consider a number of important factors before you begin. The type of paving you've chosen influences the installation method you should follow. If you've purchased Hydraulically Pressed Concrete Paving, such as our Chaucer, Meltone, Yorktone, Broadway & Quorndon ranges, follow these steps required for patio installation. If you require any further support, contact your Brett Customer Service team on 0845 60 80 570.
Please note that hydraulically pressed paving can be installed using two methods: bound (with mortar) or unbound (with sand). The process of the installation of the subbase is the same for both methods however the bedding courses and jointing details differ. The following guide will walk you through the installation process for both methods. Before you begin, determine which method you prefer for your patio.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can successfully install hydraulic concrete paving as a patio or pavement, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space for your enjoyment.
Block Paving is to be installed in accordance with BS 7533 - 3:2005 A1: 2009, ‘Code of practice for laying precast concrete paving blocks and clay pavers for flexible pavements and shall follow the process set out in the flow chart, Annex A, figure A1.
There’s an art to laying block paving, but with the right materials, tools and Brett products, you could turn your art into a masterpiece. Simply follow this step-by-step guide of how to lay block paving, to achieve a driveway to be proud of.
(Note: The sand should be moist enough to bind together when squeezed in the hand, but not show moisture on its surface when opened. If there's a physical barrier between the sub-base and laying course, ensure drainage is in place to prevent moisture build-up. Fill voids with laying sand as you remove the screed rail. The final level should be about 3mm higher than intended as the blocks will settle into the sand during compaction).
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can successfully install concrete block paving, providing a durable and hard-wearing driveway or pedestrian areas suitable for vehicular traffic.
Porcelain paving requires a bound construction method, this requires the paving to be installed on a rigid mortar bed with 6mm to 10mm mortar or grout filled joints. Thought should be provided for the use of thermal expansion joints which should be installed in both directions at centres of between 2.7 to 3.0m, or against adjoining structures.
Installing Porcelain Paving with the use of a permeable bedding is intended to relieve any water that may enter the pavement during the jointing process (depending on the jointing material being used) and any water that may seep through any hairline cracks and/or imperfections between the jointing and the paving. This allows any water to escape and prevents any possible damage due to the water freezing. Surface water runoff is still intended and should be allowed for. The overall pavement is not intended to be used as a permeable pavement, such as a part of a sustainable drainage system. Thought should be provided for the use of thermal expansion joints which should be installed in both directions at centres of between 2.7 to 3.0m, or against adjoining structures.
Block Paving is to be installed in accordance with BS 7533 - 3:2005 A1: 2009, ‘Code of practice for laying precast concrete paving blocks and clay pavers for flexible pavements and shall follow the process set out in the flow chart, Annex A, figure A1.
When installing textured block paving, such as Invicta & Lugano, the blocks needs to be kept clean through construction to stop any staining of the blocks which may be apparent at completion of the installation. It is therefore imperative that the installer does not store any of the laying course on the surface of the paving ready to screed out and if there is any excess material on the face of the blocks, it needs to be removed immediately by sweeping.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you can successfully install Invicta block paving (60mm & 80mm), providing a durable and hard-wearing driveway or pedestrian areas suitable for domestic vehicular traffic.
Doing things properly and responsibly is what Brett is all about. So, before starting work please take the time to read the following guidance from the British Precast Concrete Federation on safe working with concrete products.
Download the Safe Working with Precast Products Guide
Many of our products are, by their very nature, heavy and will frequently require specialist lifting equipment. When used together with sensible handling precautions, it is possible to ensure a safe working environment during installation.
Of course, as always, the Brett team are here to advise and support you from the beginning of your project right through to the end. Contacting us at the very start of your project will help overcome many potential site handling issues , whilst helping design-out on-site cutting and unnecessary lifting.
Please click here to download our Manual Handling Guide
Please click here to download the Safe Working with Precast Products Guide
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