What materials are used in a Block Paving Driveway?

Block paving is one of the most popular driveway surfaces across Surrey - and for good reason. It’s long-lasting, looks great, and offers a huge range of styles. But not all blocks are made the same. In fact, the materials you choose have a big impact on both the look and the cost of your new driveway.

In this guide, we break down the most common block paving materials, how they differ, and where each one works best.

Block paving driveway with concrete square blocks, from he pavement to our customer's front door, including a brick step

Concrete Blocks

Concrete is by far the most common material used in block paving. It’s affordable, widely available, and comes in a wide range of colours and finishes.

Concrete blocks are made using a mix of cement, sand, and aggregate. They’re shaped into uniform sizes and cured to create a hard-wearing surface. These blocks can be dyed during the mixing process, which gives them that classic red, buff, or charcoal tone often seen on driveways.

Some styles are made to mimic the look of clay or stone, but at a lower price point. This makes a concrete, solid all-rounder, especially for larger areas or family homes.

Different laying patterns, like herringbone or basketweave, help create visual interest, as explored in our blog on block paving driveway ideas.

Clay Bricks

Clay bricks offer a more traditional look. They’re made from natural clay and baked at high temperatures, giving them a dense, rich finish that tends to age well.

The colours in clay bricks come from the minerals in the soil, rather than artificial dyes. This gives them a natural, earthy tone — often in reds, browns, or terracotta.

Clay blocks are slightly more expensive than concrete, but they’re also known for holding their colour better over time. They’re ideal for period properties or homes with more classic features.

Although they take a bit more skill to lay, clay blocks are often used in premium block paving driveway designs where quality and character are the priority.

Natural Stone Setts

For a truly high-end finish, some homeowners opt for natural stone. This can include sandstone, granite, limestone, or slate, each with its own distinct texture and colour.

Stone pavers are durable and timeless. They’re often used in more intricate layouts or driveways that need to match existing paving around the home.

Unlike concrete or clay, natural stone blocks tend to vary slightly in tone and shape. This gives the surface a more organic look, perfect for driveways with curves, borders, or planting strips.

Because of the cost and complexity, natural stone is best suited to larger homes or formal gardens. If you're considering premium options, be aware that they may affect both your block paving driveway cost and installation time.

Permeable Paving

Permeable blocks are designed to let rainwater pass through the joints and into the ground below. This helps reduce surface water and can be useful for meeting planning permission rules, especially on larger driveways.

Permeable blocks are typically made from concrete, but their design includes wider gaps or special sub-bases that support drainage. Some homeowners choose a mix of permeable and standard blocks depending on the slope or layout of their drive.

Good drainage isn’t just about regulations — it also helps prevent long-term damage. Seasonal changes and water pooling are among the key factors in how weather affects a block paving driveway.

Recycled and Eco Materials

For those looking to reduce their environmental impact, there are recycled paving products available too. These can be made from old bricks, reclaimed stone, or sustainable concrete alternatives.

While less common, recycled materials are starting to gain popularity, especially in garden builds and more rustic settings.

It’s worth noting that recycled blocks can vary in appearance and quality. They’re best used in combination with other materials or for smaller areas that don’t require heavy traffic.

Surface Finish Options

The material you choose affects more than colour or durability — it also determines the texture of the surface.

• Smooth-surfaced blocks are easy to clean and offer a modern feel.

• Tumbled or rumbled blocks are aged to give a worn, characterful look.

• Textured blocks provide extra grip and work well on sloped driveways.

These finishes can be used to zone different parts of the driveway or highlight features like edging, steps, or bin bays.

If you’re aiming for a clean and consistent style, sticking to one finish works well. For a more decorative look, mixing textures can help create contrast, as shown in many of the block paving driveway ideas we've explored.

Block paving driveway installed in Redhill with smooth-surface blocks

Matching Materials to the Job

Every material has strengths and limitations. Your choice will depend on your budget, the design you have in mind, and how the space will be used.

Concrete is cost-effective and versatile. Clay is timeless and colourfast. Natural stone is premium and durable. And permeable paving helps with drainage.

Other factors - like how quickly you want the job done, how often the drive is used, and whether you plan to include borders or planting - also play a part. You’ll also want to know how long it takes to install a block paving driveway if you’re planning around other work.

Think Beyond Materials

The materials you choose will set the tone for the entire front of your property. But there’s more to a great driveway than just the bricks.

Think about layout, edging, lighting, and even planting. Don’t forget about access for bins, deliveries, or turning space. The best drives are both practical and attractive.

You’ll also want to ensure a strong foundation, proper drainage, and quality workmanship. Skipping these basics often leads to issues later on, as covered in our article on mistakes to avoid with a block paving driveway.

Once your new drive is complete, follow simple block paving driveway maintenance tips to keep it looking sharp for years to come.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right block paving materials is one of the biggest decisions in any driveway project. It affects the cost, the design, and the long-term performance.

Whether you go for simple concrete or premium natural stone, make sure the material suits both your home and your lifestyle. With the right build and a little maintenance, it’s an investment that will serve you well for years to come.