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How to Lay Block Paving Edging: A Step-by-Step Guide

Dec 17, 2023

If you’re looking to add some definition to your garden or driveway, block paving edging can be a great option. Not only does it enhance the overall look of your outdoor space, but it also serves as a practical barrier to keep your plants and lawn separate from your paved areas. However, laying block paving edging can seem daunting if you’ve never done it before. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step, so you can achieve a professional-looking finish.

Before you start laying block paving edging, it’s important to plan out your design. Consider the shape and size of your garden or driveway, and think about how you want your edging to look. Do you want a straight line or a curved edge? Will you be using one or multiple colours? Once you’ve decided on your design, you can start preparing the area. This involves measuring and marking out where you want your edging to go, and digging a trench to the required depth. In the next section, we’ll go into more detail about how to prepare the area for laying block paving edging.

Planning and Design

Choosing Materials

Before starting to lay block paving edging, you need to choose the right materials. The materials you choose will depend on the style and purpose of your edging. For example, if you want a rustic look, you might choose natural stone blocks. If you want a more modern look, you might choose concrete blocks.

Measuring the Area

Once you have chosen your materials, you need to measure the area where you want to lay the edging. This will help you determine how many blocks you need to buy. Measure the length and width of the area, and multiply the two numbers to get the total area in square metres.

Marking Out the Edging

Before you start laying the blocks, you need to mark out the edging. Use wooden pegs and string to mark the edges of the area where you want to lay the edging. Make sure the string is taut and straight, and use a spirit level to check that the string is level. This will ensure that your edging is straight and level when you lay the blocks.

Once you have marked out the edging, you can start digging a trench for the blocks. The trench should be about 15cm deep and 20cm wide. This will give you enough space to lay the blocks and ensure that they are stable.

Installation Process

Preparing the Foundation

Before laying the block paving edging, you need to prepare the foundation. Start by digging a trench along the edge of your paving area. The trench should be at least 200mm deep and 150mm wide. Ensure that the trench is level and compact the soil at the bottom of the trench using a hand tamper.

Next, add a layer of hardcore to the bottom of the trench. The hardcore should be around 100mm deep and should be compacted using a plate compactor. Ensure that the hardcore is level and smooth.

Laying the Edging Blocks

Once the foundation is prepared, you can start laying the edging blocks. Start by spreading a layer of sharp sand over the hardcore. The sand should be around 50mm deep and should be levelled using a rake.

Next, lay the blocks along the trench, ensuring that they are level and straight. Use a rubber mallet to tap the blocks into place. Leave a small gap between each block to allow for expansion.

As you lay the blocks, use a spirit level to check that they are level and adjust them as necessary. Continue laying the blocks until you have completed the entire length of the trench.

Securing the Edging

Once you have laid the edging blocks, you need to secure them in place. Start by filling the small gap between each block with sand. Use a brush to sweep the sand into the gaps and ensure that they are completely filled.

Next, compact the blocks using a plate compactor. This will ensure that they are securely in place and will not move over time.

Finally, add a layer of mortar along the top of the blocks. The mortar should be around 25mm deep and should be smoothed using a trowel. Allow the mortar to dry for at least 24 hours before walking on the edging.

paul mattimore discover paving

Paul Mattimore

Paul is the Founder of Discover Paving & Landscaping. With over 20 years experience in the trade, Paul has a mountain of knowledge when it comes to crafting the perfect outdoor area. He still oversees every single job delivered by Discover, ensuring the highest of standards which have led to multiple awards including the Marshalls Best Driveway Transformation.