The TR Standard
What goes under your driveway matters more than what goes on top
The engineering specification we bring from housebuilder and public realm sites to your home.
Anatomy of a TR driveway
SurfaceBlock, resin, porcelain or SMA asphalt, laid to manufacturer and BS spec.
Bedding / binderScreeded sharp sand, wet mortar bed or dense binder course depending on surface.
Sub-base150-200mm+ MOT Type 1, compacted in layers with plate and roller. Deeper on clay or soft ground.
MembraneHeavy-duty geotextile separating the sub-base from subsoil to stop sinking and weed growth.
FormationExcavated to 250-300mm+, levels set by laser, soft spots dug out and replaced.
TR Standard vs cowboy pavers
| The TR Standard | Cowboy Pavers | |
|---|---|---|
| Dig-out depth | 250-300mm+ total excavation | 100mm or less |
| Sub-base | 150-200mm+ MOT Type 1, compacted in layers | Thin layer of crushed rubble, or none |
| Membrane | Heavy-duty geotextile | Cheap weed fabric or none |
| Drainage | Engineered SUDS-compliant falls, channels & soakaways | Water left to run onto the road |
| Edging | Concrete-haunched kerbs and restraints | Loose edges that spread |
| Workforce | Own crews, own plant, no casual subcontractors | Cash-in-hand labour |
| Dropped kerbs | NRSWA certified, council approved | Unlicensed, risk of enforcement |
| Payment | 0% deposit, pay on satisfaction | Large upfront cash deposit |
| Guarantee | 10-year structural, backed by a Ltd company since 2014 | Verbal, if they answer the phone |
Drainage done properly
Since 2008, new non-permeable front gardens over 5m² that drain onto the road need planning permission. We design every driveway to manage its own water: permeable surfaces, ACO-style channel drains, soakaways and correct falls, all SUDS compliant.
⇆
Free on-site survey. Fixed written quote. 0% deposit.
No obligation. No pushy sales. Just an engineer's honest assessment.