The Brew Cabin

this might seem like a ridiculous question and, if so, I apologise in advance.

I'll shortly be attempting a small block paved drive (planning stages at the moment - first project) but wondered how I would get around the concrete "flared" base of existing brick pillars at the entrance. Do I need to take them down and break it all away? The first course starts roughly level with what will be my finished drive level...

I hope that makes sense!

Thanks

Are these pillars built on a concrete base that extends into the driveway area? Can you describe the foundations in more detail?

they are on a concrete base (appox 9' deep) which extends out into the intended driveway by about 6'.

I'd be very, very reluctant to break into that base.

One 'trick' I've used in the past when faced with this sort of problem is to lay the edge course blocks around the extended base plinth, but to keep them slightly proud, say 3-6mm, and then make up a granolithic mortar, coloured to match/complement the edge course blocks, add a splash of Ronafix to improve bonding and 'hardness', and then trowel this over the exposed plinth concrete.

So, if we'd used a Charcoal Edge Course, I'd use a dark grey mortar to fill the 'gap' between the back of the edge course and the face of the brick pillar. It actually doesn't look too bad, and it avoids the problem of interfering with a pillar foundation without having to leave it on show.

Thanks Tony

Will give it a go, try to get some photo's, too.

Craig