If you’ve been putting off getting your driveway sorted because you’re worried about who to trust, you’re far from alone. New research from the Federation of Master Builders has shown just how much money homeowners across the country are losing to unqualified and unlicensed builders, with local MPs describing it as a “clear, systematic failure” to protect people from cowboy trades. For anyone in Andover thinking about a new block paving driveway, it’s a timely reminder to do your homework before letting anyone loose on your property.
The research found that more than two in five people have hired a builder who turned out to be unqualified, and one in five have been put off having work done at all simply because they couldn’t find someone they trusted. That’s a real shame, because a well-laid block paving driveway is one of the best improvements you can make to a property — both for kerb appeal and for everyday practicality.
The difference between a driveway that lasts twenty years and one that starts sinking within twelve months usually comes down to what’s underneath it. Proper excavation depth, a correctly compacted sub-base, and good drainage falls are not things you can see once the paving is down, which is exactly why choosing a company with a genuine track record matters so much.
It’s also worth asking about permeable paving options, which help with drainage and can keep you on the right side of planning rules for front gardens. A good local installer will talk you through the choices rather than just pushing the cheapest option.
Test Valley Paving has been transforming driveways and patios across Andover and the surrounding villages for years, with all work carried out by their own experienced team rather than subcontractors. If you’d like a straightforward, no-pressure quote for block paving, resin or patio work, pop over to testvalleypaving.co.uk to see recent projects and get in touch.