Pattern Concrete FAQ’s

Pattern Imprinted Concrete is an innovative method of laying freshly mixed concrete, colouring and imprinting to give you a unique bespoke driveway, paths, courtyard or patio. This is probably the most superior product  both in terms of its beautiful appearance and its durability. It is available in a wide range of designs of your choice including cobbles, slate, brick, boardwalk and stone to create a stunning three dimensional effect. You can then choose from a range of colours so that you can select the right combination for your home.

This is not really a job suitable to DIY as it requires specialist knowledge, tools and the pattern mats are relatively expensive. .

On average, Pattern Imprinted Concrete is no more expensive than block paving or even tarmac, as long as the work is carried out correctly. The advantages of imprinted concrete far outweigh any other forms of paving!

There are several contractors that specialise in this type of paving, and we would most strongly recommend that you use an experienced and reputable trader for this type of work rather than a general builder or so-called block paving "specialist". The skills required to make a good job of pattern imprinted concrete are NOT the same as those used for block paving, flagging or tarmacadam. Reputable contractors should be able to provide you with genuine testimonials and also provide you with examples of their work for you to go and visit.

On average, Pattern Imprinted Concrete is no more expensive than block paving or even tarmac, as long as the work is carried out correctly.

We currently service All of west Yorkshire,

Our locations include...

However, sometimes we will go further afield, so do not hesitate to contact us for more info.

No matter what colour or pattern you choose, the price remains the same.

Pattern Imprinted Concrete has many benefits over other types of traditional paving. For example, the installation remains weed free and is easy to maintain and there will be no sinking or subsidence.

As Pattern imprinted Concrete can be formed into contours, undulations, slopes and steps it is suitable for many applications including driveways, walkways, paths & patios. It is becoming increasingly popular with commercial projects now due to the low maintenance aspects and also the fact that as opposed to traditional paving; cobble setts or york stone paving, imprinted concrete cannot be lifted and carted away in the night!

Reinforced concrete should last a lifetime, if installed properly by a reputable company.

Every job is different! Ideally, an average job should take between 5-7 days to complete.

Overall, we excavate to approx. 200-250mm. The sub base of hardcore will be compacted to a depth of approx. 100-150mm depending on the type of ground, and concrete is to a depth of approx. 100mm.

Again, every job is different, but we aim to use a grab lorry to remove waste the same day it is excavated. Occasionally, it may be necessary to use a skip.

The concrete mixture we use contains fibres which add to the strength of the installation and it is air entrained, which aids frost protection. Each installation is guaranteed to be a minimum of 25/30 Newton's, the same strength used on motorways.

Once the final stage is completed, 48 hours before driving or parking and 2 weeks before placing any plant pots. However, foot traffic is permitted after 2-3 hours.

The introduction of expansion joints into concrete installations is recommended by British Standards. These joints help to absorb the natural movement that occurs in our land.

Yes without a doubt!  The winter and summer mixes are adapted to suit the conditions.  Also the beauty about having a driveway from Spectacular Driveways is that we have our own concrete truck that mixes the concrete freshly on site to our own specification!

Yes! Due to its strength and durability, many commercial installations in America and Europe use Pattern Imprinted Concrete, which is still relatively new in Britain and the benefits are only just being recognised now! Many places have installed Pattern Imprinted Concrete, for example fast food restaurants and theme parks across the country. We have also completed installations for local councils in school playgrounds, pedestrian areas and road features such as roundabouts.

In basic terms....

Planning permission is not required for permeable surfacing (e.g. shingle) or non-permeable surfacing (e.g. Pattern Imprinted Concrete) where rain/ surface water can be directed to a naturally draining area, such as garden/ lawn or a soakaway.

If these conditions cannot be fulfilled, then in accordance with the legislation passed in October 2008, planning permission will be required, which we will advise you on during a site visit/free quotation.