Transforming an In-and-Out Driveway in Ongar
Daniel Fredlen Brickwork & Landscaping was recently commissioned to replace a poorly installed resin driveway at a high-end residential property in Ongar. The customer, a successful local businessman, was dissatisfied with the existing driveway, which had developed cracks within just a year of installation. Rather than opting for repairs that might result in colour inconsistencies, the customer decided on a high-quality paving solution that would provide both durability and aesthetic appeal.
With a strong reputation in the area and previous projects that impressed the client, Daniel Fredlen Brickwork & Landscaping was the natural choice for the job. Our team worked efficiently, delivering a stunning new driveway within four days, thanks to good weather and expert preparation.
The Challenge: Replacing a Failing Resin Driveway
The original resin driveway, which functioned as an in-and-out access point for the property, had been installed to a poor standard. Within a year, cracks had appeared, significantly affecting both the driveway’s functionality and appearance. Given the extent of the damage, patch repairs were not an ideal option, as they could lead to colour mismatches and further deterioration over time. The best course of action was a partial replacement using a paving system that would ensure both longevity and visual enhancement.
Choosing the Right Design & Materials
The client opted for a sleek and contemporary paving solution using black slate slabs, arranged in a random pattern with four different sizes for added texture and character. To frame the driveway elegantly, a granite stone cobble border was selected, providing a striking contrast to the dark paving while enhancing the overall visual appeal of the property.
The materials were sourced from a trusted Essex-based supplier known for its high-quality and durable stone. Having worked with this supplier for years, Daniel Fredlen Brickwork & Landscaping was confident that the materials would not only elevate the aesthetics of the driveway but also stand the test of time.
Preparation & Installation: A Foundation for Long-Lasting Results
To ensure the new driveway would last for years without issue, the team completely removed the old resin and its base at the front property, starting from scratch in that area. This approach was critical in preventing future problems related to poor groundwork. Given the scope of the removal process, extra caution was taken to avoid any damage to the property’s existing landscaping, as well as underlying pipes and cables.
Once the old surface was cleared, a solid and well-compacted base was laid to provide a stable foundation for the new paving. The slate slabs were meticulously arranged to create the desired random pattern, ensuring a seamless yet dynamic look. Finally, the granite border was installed, framing the driveway and adding a polished finish.
Project Execution & Timeline
Despite the potential challenges of working on an existing property with established landscaping, the team was able to execute the project smoothly. Benefiting from favourable weather conditions, the entire job was completed within just four days. This efficiency was a testament to our team’s skill, planning, and experience in delivering high-quality driveway solutions.
Customer Feedback & Satisfaction
The client was highly impressed with the professionalism and efficiency of Daniel Fredlen Brickwork & Landscaping. From the initial consultation to project completion, the team maintained clear communication, worked neatly, and delivered a high standard of craftsmanship. The customer provided the following testimonial:
“Their contact followed up within a few hours of my request for a visit to cost installing paving in my driveway. Their promised quote arrived by email within 24 hours and a date for commencing the work was provided. Their personnel arrived on time on the due date and worked in a tidy, professional manner, keeping me informed daily of their progress. The work was completed on time and to a high standard. Accordingly, I have pleasure in recommending them to anyone.”
The Outcome: A Functional & Striking Driveway
Beyond serving as a practical in-and-out driveway, the new paved design has significantly enhanced the front appearance of the property. The sophisticated black slate and granite border combination has added a bold yet elegant touch to the home’s exterior, increasing both its curb appeal and value.This project highlights the expertise of Daniel Fredlen Brickwork & Landscaping in delivering durable, aesthetically refined, and professionally executed driveway solutions. By choosing the right materials and ensuring a flawless installation, our team provided a long-lasting transformation that the client can rely on for years to come.