Page 1 of 1
Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 12:37 pm
by Shirley
We are looking to pave the drive to our Edwardian red brick semi. The drive is north facing and under an overhanging tree. We have seen the Marshalls Tegula in Pennant Grey but it is still pretty light in colour and we wonder if it will quickly look grotty with the algae that is likely to appear in wet Manchester! Would prefer a darker grey but can't seem to find a suitable product to fit this description.... or the time to wade through the long list of suppliers and brochures. Can you help with suggesting something suitable. Preferably a cobbled type finish that looks aged and traditional.
Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 5:45 pm
by Tony McC
Tobermore offer an 'alternative' Tegula in a colour thay call "Slate" which is probably a shade darker than the Pennant Grey. The darkest tumbled block I know of is the Winter Charcoal from RMC, but it's not easy to obtain for residential projects, and it's even more expensive than the Marshalls Tegula.
A couple of weeks or so ago, I uploaded a feature regarding a stone block paver from Natural Paving. They are about to launch a very dark limestone version of this block and, as you'd expect, I've had a sneak preview which is why I can lett you see the photo below, but only as long as you promise not to tell everyone! :;):
Posted: Sat May 20, 2006 11:05 pm
by Shirley
Thanks for your prompt reply, Tony. We will follow up your very helpful suggestions. Can I also pick your brains on any way of trying to minimise, perhaps even prevent, algae build up and staining on a driveway in shade under trees... and how to get rid of it if it is inevitable? Your expertise is very much appreciated.
Regards
Shirley
Posted: Tue May 23, 2006 1:29 pm
by Tony McC
Swilling the paving with bleach should deter the algae, or you could use one of the commercially available anti-algae preparations that tend to be sold at garden centres.
As I've mentioned before, this subject is in the process of being FAQqed (along with a dozen or so others) but my time is so limited these days that it;s getting to be harder and harder to keep up with everything.