Wednesday 18 November 2015

Tarmac Contractor | Planning a driveway improvement

As a well known tarmac contractor we value how important it is for any type of property to have a well installed driveway. You can increase property value and re sale desirability whilst also making a functional and aesthetically pleasing improvement.

Planning a driveway


We suggest that you always seek the advice of an industry professional before contemplating any driveway project. Whether it’s a new installation or resurfacing and repair it is important that it is dealt with by experts.

Always look to find a reputable contractor who can provide you with a portfolio of recent work and customer testimonials and recommendations. You should also check their credentials and ensure that they are insured and can provide a guarantee or warranty for any work undertaken. When embarking on such a large investment you will want to ensure the work is covered for costs in the event of problems or damage.

When making changes to your driveway; consider your neighbours and boundaries of your property. Do you need to make any enquiries as to permissions or land disputes before installing a driveway as a perimeter?

Exercise caution when it comes to cost and set up a realistic budget. Be aware you need to factor in additional costs for labour and if a project was to be delayed etc
There are also materials and expenses for hiring contractors. Ensure you incorporate all expenditure and leave some extra funds for emergencies.


If you don’t want to be burdened with the planning and work of installing a driveway yourself then hiring a professional is the best option. Not only will the work be carried out to the highest standards you can sit back and relax in the knowledge every aspect is being taken care of. So why not call on our own tarmac contractors today on 01773 590159 we are S Brown Paving Ltd based at 14 High Street | Alfreton | Derbyshire | DE55 6JY‎      

Wednesday 2 September 2015

Block Paving Derbyshire | How to Lay a Garden Path With Block Paving

Experts at block paving Derbyshire explain in this short video exactly how to go about laying down stones to create a garden path.

Laying down block paving in your garden is a simple task, and can give your garden a fresh new look without having to do an awful lot to it. The best part is block paving can be used to create walkways, which will look fantastic in any season. In the summer months you can always add plants around the edges too to bring it to life.

Before starting on your paved walkway, think about the kind of design your after first. Do you want it to be in a straight line, or do you want something a bit different? Perhaps a curved path that bends around trees or plants.

If you sketch out a few rough plans first, this will give you a good impression as to what it might look like, this way you can also decide on what coloured stones or brick you want to use too.




You'll find S Brown Paving http://www.sbrownpaving.com based at 14 High St, Stonebroom, Alfreton, Derbyshire County DE55 6JY | 01773 590159

Monday 30 March 2015

Tarmac Driveways | Spring Driveway Maintenance



Spring Driveway Maintenance

We have had a week of Spring already and many homeowners will begin preparing their properties with some much needed Spring maintenance this Easter. Whether its tarmac driveways to block paving maintenance is essential to keeping it looking good and working efficiently.

Spring Driveway Maintenance Made Simple

Whatever your driveway during Spring it will probably require some attention. Winter can have a huge impact on your driveway, freezing temperatures, bad weather and use of salt and other agents can take their toll. As this article suggests that a little TLC from you this Spring will help get your driveway back on track to be enjoyed and used over Summer.

Our highlighted tip from this article: Ruts & Potholes 
Many homeowners choose to fill in potholes by hand but this can be an incredibly meticulous task. A simpler solution is to regrade the driveway, loosening packed areas and redistributing gravel for a smooth and even surface. 


Spring clean your driveway – tips and tricks for success

Spring is here and many homeowners will look to Spring Cleaning their homes. However with all that focus indoors don’t overlook maintaining your driveway. Be sure to keep your homes curb appeal by following some of these useful tips from the article below.
Advice like avoiding continuous or long exposure of harmful chemicals and agents such as de icers, cleaners, salt, oil and grit is essential to keeping your driveway maintained. Always remove debris, spills or products that may come into contact with your driveway that can cause excessive damage.


ASPHALT PAVING SPRING MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

One driveway material you may be familiar with is tarmac or asp[halt. This great post can offer you a great guide to keeping it in check over Spring. You can follow simple tips such as remembering to inspect your driveway for cracks and damage. You can also choose to seal your driveway at this time of year in order to protect it from damage again in future winters. All this advice and more can be expanded on below and to keep your driveway healthy keep to a regular cleaning regime. Actions such as removing dirt and debris by a quick sweep now and then can be of great benefit.

Spring Cleaning!

When we think of the Spring we think of starting projects that can help get our homes in order. We look to having a thorough clean inside an out to get properties prepared for their time to shine in summer. Therefore making an effort to maintain your driveway can be one of the things you do this Easter. This article has some great steps to ensure that you make the most of this productive time of year. From taking the first steps to checking and inspecting for damage to deep cleaning it all can be of great importance. If you feel that the winter has been exceptionally harsh on your driveway you may even want to ask a professional to see if you should be considering a new driveway.


Spring Cleaning for Driveways, Paths, and Parking Areas

As this post suggests Spring is the ideal time to start putting into practice some maintenance for your driveway. When the snow and bad weather is cleared you should always take the time to inspect your driveway from the effects of winter. If you find that it has become covered by dirt and debris this is the time to start to clear and clean it up. You may then find areas that have succumb to damage and need repair. These can be potholes, ruts and depressions that can be fixed by hand by being filled. You shouldn’t leave such areas to develop into worsening conditions; often exposure to wet weather can make these holes, gaps and cracks bigger. Any concerns you have to your driveways condition must be addressed immediately in order to prevent future problems. You can find even more useful tips from this helpful source below.


Our Thoughts
Whatever your driveway from tarmac driveways to concrete and block paving they all require a little TLC this Spring. After such a harsh winter homeowners may find that their driveways haven’t fared to well. Upon closer inspection if you believe the damage to your driveway is to severe for a general repair we suggest calling a professional who can provide you with expert advice. 




Wednesday 18 February 2015

Driveways Derby | Best Ways to Maintain Your Driveway

Maintaining Your Driveway 

Our Driveways Derby team understand that keeping your driveway in good condition is important. That is why homeowners should make sure they carry out regular maintenance in order to fully care for their drives. 

Driveways Derby | 9 Eco-friendly Ways to De-Ice Your Driveway



Why de ice your driveway

Even now the driveways derby team know that we are receiving very bad weather; snow and ice has been a particular problem. Having a clear and safe driveway is important for homeowners and also in terms of driveway care and maintenance.
Salt is the main product used to remove snow and ice however it can prove to be more harm than good. There are various alternatives to salt you can try that can work just as well.

Problems with Salt

·         Environment: Excess salts build up in the soil, just as they do with chemical fertilizers.

·     Plants & Wildlife: It can be harmful to your garden plants and shrubs. For example salt residue prevents plants from absorbing moisture and nutrients.

·       Water contamination: Salts can leach heavy metals, which eventually make their way into water supplies.

·     Pets & Animals: Salt can be dangerous for pets and wildlife who can suffer allergies and salt burns.

How to de ice your driveway

Shovel Snow

When the snow stops the best course of action is to start removing snow by shovelling.

Go Electric

If you prefer to use a snow blower, get an electric model. Gas-powered blowers generate a lot more air and noise pollution.

Snow Melt Mat

If you're installing a new driveway or replacing an old one, lay down electric wires to heat the driveway from below and radiate heat upwards. Yes, you pay for electricity, so it's not as "eco" as shovelling by hand.

Get a Grip

To create better grip and traction try scattering sand or even birdseed. Though it won’t melt the snow it allows for better grip on icy surfaces.

De-icer

De Ices work by losing the ice from below enabling you to shovel the snow more easily. However limit the amount that you use, just piling on de icer will not clear the path and will be harmful to your driveway in excess.

Pick Your Salt Carefully

Salt is effective at removing snow and ice from your driveway. If you do have to use it then choose which type carefully. Try to avoid those that have high contents of potassium chloride and sodium chloride. Calcium chloride salts are better but still have their disadvantages. When using salt avoid using it near garden plants, wildlife and pets.

Avoid Cat Litter or Wood Ashes

Neither melts snow and ice, and they have a tendency to make a mess.

Avoid Products that Contain Nitrogen-Based Urea

They're more expensive and are not effective once the temperature drops below 20°F.  It also can cause water contamination that can be harmful if it gets into the water supply.

Get the Boot

Wear boots that have a solid toe and bottom treads to help increase your grip on icy surfaces.

Our Thoughts

Our driveways derby team value the importance of keeping your driveways clear and maintained to improve their longevity. By following some of these useful tips for de icing your driveway without the use of salts you can prevent damage to your driveway.




Tuesday 17 February 2015

Driveways Derby | Clearing Paths and Driveways

Clearing Paths and Driveways

The driveways Derby team know that winter is far from over for some people and this can make looking after your driveways more difficult. Ensuring you keep your driveways clear is important to maintaining there life and keeping yourself and people in the home safe when stepping out. This article can help with ideas and tips on how to keep your paths and driveways clear when the weather takes a turn for the worse. 

Friday 16 January 2015

Winterizing Your Sidewalks And Driveways

Winterizing Your Driveways 

Winter is still upon as the tarmac derby driveways team know that the weather ca be particular harsh this time of year. From snow and ice to freezing temperatures they all have an effect on your homes driveway. Learn how to best prepare and successfully maintain your driveways through winter below.