• 01948 710851
  • What is the lead time before installation starts?

    Lead time depends on our work load when the order is placed but normally it will be between one week and six weeks. If you have a particular need we may be able to bring your fitting date forward.

  • How long will it take to carry out the job?

    Dependant upon the size of stamped concrete project it normally takes between 7 and 10 days.We only leave your job if weather conditions dictate or are waiting for the concrete to cure.

  • How much does the weather affect the installation of the pattern imprinted concrete?

    We are quite used to gauging the work load to accommodate the bad weather where possible, however if the conditions prevent us from continuing for a day or two we will obviously keep you informed of any new schedules.We are able to cope with most conditions, however severe cold and rain will interrupt proceedings.

  • Will you work on our project continuously from start to finish?

    Yes, unlike some of our competitors, we will not excavate a number of jobs then pour them in sequence after that. We will excavate one day, pour, colour and stamp the concrete the next , weather permitting .We then leave the concrete in a clean and walkable state for 7 days whilst the concrete cures and then return to seal and finish off. That way you have our full attention throughout and your project is completed with as little fuss as possible.

  • To what depth do you dig out?

    This depends on the ground conditions we come across. We need to accommodate the imprinted concrete slab which is usually 100mm-125mm thick for a standard driveway. This needs to be laid on a solid sub base.The mot type 1 sub base can be anywhere between 150mm thick on unstable ground to making use of an existing solid , suitable existing base.

  • How deep do you lay the patterned concrete?

    On a domestic driveway we pour the patterned concrete to a minimum depth of 100mm – 125mm and on patios or pathways to a  depth of between 75mm-100mm

  • What about access to my home once the imprinted concrete has been laid?

    When planning any installation access is one of the primary considerations. Even though the imprinted concrete can be walked on the next day we aim to keep the inconvenience to a minimum.There are a number of options available, including the temporary removal of a neighbour’s fence panel or using planks which would be set up securely between a doorway and a firm piece of ground. There is always a solution!

  • What about maintenance for the pattern imprinted concrete?

    Nothing in life is totally maintenance free but as far as paving is concerned our pattern imprinted concrete is as close as it gets. The colour hardeners dramatically reduce the effects of wear through usage. The solvent based acrylic lacquer does not allow the growth of moss or algae and it also prevents the ingress of dirt and stains. It can be power washed if extremely dirty however the occasional sweep off or rinse with a detergent is the most it will require. The key to keeping your stamped concrete in good condition is to get it cleaned and resealed occasionally. The frequency of this depends mainly on the type of use it gets but as an average anywhere between 4 and 10 years is the norm for a pattern imprinted concrete driveway.

  • Do we need planning permission for a new concrete driveway?

    Regulations came into effect in 2008 to try to reduce the problem of flooding due to the increased area of hard surfacing in England,Scotland, Ireland and Wales. The ruling states that whether it is either a new or a replacement driveway the surface water drainage should be contained within the owners property by using a porous paving material or by collecting the surface water run off and directing it into soakaways. As block paving, tarmac and concrete are not porous, any new driveway needs to be designed so that the drainage complies with the regulations and is also able to cope with incidences of high rainfall. It is usually quite a simple process to include a drainage solution into the initial design of a  Pattern Imprinted Concrete Driveway so that all legal requirements are met without the need to apply for planning permission and the costs involved.

  • Once the drive or patio is laid how long do I have to stay off it?

    The stamped concrete will be set sufficiently by the following morning for it to be walked on. For a driveway it needs seven days curing time to take the weight of a domestic car, by which time we should have the paving sealed and protected.

  • Can you my existing driveway be widened?

    The initial consultation will determine the required size and shape of the new driveway. Through experience we know the best dimensions to create the parking spaces required.

  • Will you be able to pave entire garden and make it all into a driveway?

    If that is required, yes. We can do this at the same time being able to control surface water drainage to comply with local authority regulations and the environment agency regulations. We will however work to maintain an area that does not have the cold appeal of a carpark but design a layout that doesn’t detract from the looks of the property but actually enhance it.

  • Can you build walls?

    Yes we can. If it is part of the project we have qualified brick layers who carry out all necessary walling requirements. We can even add decorative renders to replicate natural stone walls.

  • Can you replace or fit new fencing?

    Yes we can. We can advise on fencing and if it is part of the paving project will be happy to quote for the supply and installation.

  • What about any drainage for the new driveway?

    All necessary drainage requirements are assessed at the initial design stage and then reassessed during construction. All drainage will comply with regulations and also take into account possible effects of severe rainfall episodes.

  • How many different patterns are available?

    We can offer over a dozen different basic patterns, including over six types of cobble. These patterns can then be used in multiple ways and with numerous border edging combinations.

  • Can I see examples of your work before I go ahead?

    We will be more than happy to offer you a list of completed pattern imprinted concrete projects in your area of varying ages and styles.

  • How long does the acrylic sealant last?

    For an average driveway it would need renewing between 4 and 10 years depending on wear and tear. A new coat of sealant restores the stamped concrete surface to a virtually as new state in most cases. It also helps to maintain its ability to repel dirt, oil and algae..

  • How do I know when the concrete needs resealing?

    If the surface is starting to get some algae growth or is starting to look a bit pale ( but the colour looks fine when wet ) then it could do with a clean and reseal. If in doubt give us a call on 01948 710851 and we will call by to check it.

  • Why are movement joints required?

    Movement joints are cut in at regular intervals as recommended by British Standards. They are cut to a depth of 25% of the slab using a saw equipped with a diamond blade. If a slab is too large or irregularly shaped then it may put under stress and as a result hairline cracks may form. Where possible the joints are disguised within the pattern to minimise their appearance and then filled with a mastic to prevent weeds . We are able to omit joints at certain points if they area going to mar the appearance of the design by using steel reinforcement.

  • Can the imprinted concrete be installed at any time of year?

    We are able to continue working throughout the year, we just have to alter our working practises to suit the conditions. If frost or rain are forecast then we are able to protect the decorative concrete surface from their effects. Likewise if the conditions are very warm we need to be able to pre-empt the possibility of shrinkage cracks forming.

  • How strong is the concrete?

    We will advise on the suitable depth of the concrete and wether it requires any further reinforcement when we have our initial discussion. Generally a slab 100mm – 125mm thick is sufficient for a standard driveway.

  • Is it a messy job?

    We aim to contain the mess to a minimum. During preparation sturdy boards are used to prevent damage to lawns or aprons. When laying the pattern imprinted concrete all walls are masked to prevent staining. We use a cleaner method of imprinting that doesn’t use the standard loose coloured powder.

  • Are there any dos and don’ts with my new decorative concrete paving?

    Excessive use of rock salt to de-ice the surface may cause spalling of the concrete. If a de-icing product is required there are non-corrosive products available. The use of certain solvents may affect the sealant and require professional attention.

  • How long will my driveway last?

    If laid correctly and with the occasional reseal a pattern imprinted concrete surface should indefinitely. I still see driveways I installed back in 1993 and they still look nearly new.

  • I would like a quote for a new driveway or patio. What do I do next?

    Give us a call on 01948 710851 or use the enquiry form on the website. We will then arrange for Andy Read

    to visit to discuss your requirements and provide a quotation.

  • Is it necessary to have a skip outside my house?

    We usually use a grab wagon to remove the rubbish, if a skip is used it is generally gone on the same day.

  • How can I pay for my new imprinted concrete paving?

    Personal or bank cheques are fine, however most people pay direct from their bank account. We do not take credit or debit cards due to the high charges levied.

  • Do you do commercial decorative concrete work or is it just domestic?

    Both commercial and domestic paving areas are undertaken.

  • Does the choice of pattern and colour for the concrete affect the price?

    The design, colour or pattern of the decorative concrete does not affect the price, which means we are not restricted in created the best area possible.

  • Is pattern imprinted concrete paving more expensive than other products?

    Pattern imprinted concrete is generally equivalent in price to good quality tarmac, block paving or Indian sandstone. When the lifespan and lack of maintenance is taken into account then it starts to be the most cost effective option.

  • How do I deal with accidental spillage’s on my paving surface?

    For most spillage’s, including oil, washing up liquid and water is fine. If, however, the spillage is of paint or cement or you are just worried please call us on 01948 710851 and we will advise you.

  • Can the imprinted concrete crack?

    The risk of cracking can never be completely ruled out with any type of concrete paving, however, this risk is greatly reduced by high installation specifications. In our experience, if a crack does eventually develop it will generally remain barely visible.

  • Can the decorative concrete paving fade?

    The colour pigments used in the decorative concrete process will not fade. If the colour seems to be getting paler then this is usually an indication of it needing resealing.

  • "Many thanks for the quick and efficient way you and your team produced our replacement Pattern Imprinted Concrete Driveway. We are very pleased with the results. May we also say how helpful and courteous all members of your team were and how considerate they were to our neighbours as well."

    GRAHAM MITCHELL
    BROMBOROUGH
  • "I am very pleased with the result and look forward to additional work once the builders have finished. Many thanks for such a good job!"

    DR HUGHES
    SHREWSBURY
  • "Thank you for your service producing our new Pattern imprinted Concrete Driveway. It does give a satisfactory appearance and compliments our stonework. Your service has been excellent."

    MR MARSDEN
    WELSHPOOL
  • "We are very pleased with the Driveway. Also I would like to thank all the men who worked on our Driveway, they are a credit to you."

    MR AND MRS ROBINSON
    MALPAS
  • "May I take this opportunity to thank you for a first class job and wish your company all the success for the future."

    MR J W PREECE
    SHREWSBURY
  • "Thank you for a good job!"

    MR SCALES
    STAFFORD
  • "I would like to express our thanks to all your staff for doing such an excellent job. They have left the site very tidy after they have been and we are so impressed in how quickly the Imprinted Concrete Driveway has come to completion. If anyone I know ever wants their driveway resurfacing I will recommend Readypave every time. I am thoroughly pleased with every aspect of the the work and once again thank you for doing such an excellent job."

    MR AND MRS WARD
    STOKE ON TRENT
  • "Great job!"

    PAUL
    HANFORD
  • "We would like to thank you and your team for our lovely Pattern Pressed Driveway and the speediness in which the work was completed, we are extremely pleased with the job and have already had many admirers of your work, we certainly would have no hesitation in recommending you to anyone. Thank you again for a lovely creation which has improved our home."

    MR AND MRS ROBERTS
    ELLESMERE
  • "May I take this opportunity to thank you and your team for your prompt and excellent service."

    MR AND MRS SIDEBOTHAM
    WINSFORD
  • "Thank you for the free after service which was expertly executed. The Cobblestones are a good advert for your company."

    MR TRACHSEL
    GOOSTREY
  • "I would like to thank you and your staff to the excellent work which has enhanced the appearance of our property."

    A CRUTCHLEY
    AUDLEM
  • "I am writing to say how pleased I am with my drive. The teams that worked on it were very pleasant, helpful and very professional in what they do. I am very glad with the finished effect and would happily tell anyone."

    MRS HAMMERSLEY
    STOKE ON TRENT
  • "Thank you for your efficient and high standard workmanship."

    MR GRIFFITHS
    WARRINGTON
  • "Both my wife and myself are very pleased with the final product and will now be spending many a sunny day sitting in the garden!"

    MR AND MRS WATKINS
    WELSHPOOL
  • "Really tidy job - very pleased!"

    MR HUMPHREYS
    SHREWSBURY
  • "My family and I would like to thank you and your men for making such a difference to our property. So many people have commented on the finished article, many of them not knowing that concrete can look like this and many who didn't see it being laid thinking it is cobbled. The whole procedure was so easy - stress and pressure free from the quotation been given right through to the sealant going on. your workmen are a credit to your company working in a polite, clean and professional manner. We were amazed on the first day when the digging out had been completed as on our return home there was no indication that any soil and debris had been carted away, everything was so clean and tidy. Our neighbours have said what a great team we had working here. Please pas on our thanks to all concerned. Your company came recommended to us and we will have no hesitation in doing the same."

    MR AND MRS PICKERING
    NORTHWICH
  • "Thought I would drop a line to say how pleased I am with the Drive and Patio. As time goes on I am more and more pleased I took the plunge. The front is now planted with jolly things for the time being. The camellia is restored to health and the plants I put in the drive are thriving and looking good. Everyone who comes to the house asks me who did the work and admires it. I have passed your details to a number of people; I think you may be doing some work for a colleague of mine in Kinnerton shortly. If you want to give my address to potential customers then go ahead. I found looking at your work, and chatting with a man at one of the addresses you gave me, very important in making my decision to choose you in the first place."

    LIZ ROWLEY
    CHESTER
  • "Just an e mail to let you know how pleased i am with the drive and pathway you did for us. The dark cobble affect looks perfect at our old cottage and is in keeping with our cottage garden. Being at work all day i did not see much of the lads working but was very pleased with how tidy the site was when i came home each night. My next door neighbour is a retired civil engineer and has spent most of his career supervising road works and is always very critical of any workmen if working for him or indeed me but said of you guys " The lads working on your drive are the best organised and hard working gang i have seen for a long time , everything they needed was delivered to site at exactly the right time and taken away when 
finished , the site was kept tidy at the end of each day and they worked hard all day i think think they are a credit to the the the company and what a professional company they are " that is very high praise indeed. Thank you again for a job well done!"

    MR SILLENCE
    GRESFORD
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