Why it works on slopes
Every block is held by its neighbours. On a gradient, cars push down and along the surface, especially when braking or pulling away. Herringbone spreads that load in several directions, so blocks don't creep downhill. Strong edge restraints set in concrete stop the whole surface sliding, and on longer slopes we may add intermediate restraints.
Colours and blocks
Charcoal, silver, brindle and buff blends all work, along with tumbled blocks for an older look and clay pavers that sit well beside Durham's brick and sandstone. Borders in a contrasting tone add definition.
Drainage at the bottom
Water runs downhill, and on a drive that falls towards the house or garage it needs catching. We fit a linear channel drain across the drive at the low point, connected to a soakaway or suitable outlet, and shape falls so water doesn't sit against walls or doors. Permeable block paving is an option where the ground drains well enough.
The layers beneath
Excavation, membrane where needed, a compacted stone sub-base, edge courses haunched in concrete, a screeded sand bed, then the blocks, vibrated and jointed. On slopes, getting the sub-base compaction right matters even more.
