Kerbs and driveway edging help define the edge of a paved area, support surrounding materials and create a clean, consistent finish. For people, choosing the right kerb or edging depends on the driveway construction, expected use, ground conditions and appearance required.

What should you consider when specifying kerbs and edgings?

Before choosing a kerb or driveway edging, consider how the paved area will be used and the support the edge needs to provide.

A driveway used regularly may need a stronger edge restraint than a path or landscaped border. The finished levels, surface material and drainage design can also affect which kerb profile is suitable.

Key points to consider include:

The type of paving or driveway surface
Expected vehicle and foot traffic
Finished ground levels
Drainage requirements
Straight, curved or stepped sections
Compatibility with surrounding materials
Access for delivery and installation
The appearance required for the finished project

Kerbs and edgings should be included in the project specification from the start. This helps make sure the correct dimensions, levels and supporting materials are allowed for before installation begins.

Types of kerbs and driveway edging

Different kerbs and edging products are available for driveways, paths and landscaped areas. The most suitable option will depend on the level of support needed and the finish required.

Concrete kerbs

Concrete kerbs are commonly used around driveways, access routes, parking areas and larger paved spaces. They provide a strong edge and can help retain the paving and surrounding materials.

Concrete kerbs are available in different profiles and sizes, including options designed for changes in level, entrances and transitions between paved areas.

Because concrete kerbs are heavier than many smaller edging products, contractors should plan handling, access and installation before work begins.

Driveway edging

Driveway edging can be used to create a defined boundary around block paving, gravel, asphalt or other driveway surfaces.

The edging helps keep the surface material in place and can reduce movement at the outer edge. It can also provide a neat transition between the driveway and surrounding landscaping.

The specification should reflect the driveway construction. A decorative edge may provide the required finish on some projects, while areas with regular vehicle movement may need a stronger kerb edging system.

Concrete edging

Concrete edging is often used around paths, landscaped areas and lighter paving applications. It can provide a clean edge while being easier to handle than larger concrete kerbs.

Concrete edging may be suitable where the main requirement is to separate surfaces or retain smaller paved areas. Contractors should still check that the chosen product is suitable for the expected use and level of loading.

Kerb profiles and sizes

Kerb and edging sizes vary depending on the profile and intended application. Contractors should check the product specification before ordering to make sure the kerbs suit the finished levels and driveway design.

Common profiles can include:

Standard kerbs for defined driveway edges
Bullnose profiles for a rounded finish
Splayed profiles for sloping or angled edges
Dropped kerbs for access points
Transition kerbs for changes between different heights
Smaller concrete edging for paths and landscaped areas

The finished height of the kerb should be considered alongside the driveway surface and surrounding ground. Some kerbs are installed with a raised edge, while others may be set closer to the paving level depending on the project.

Where the driveway includes curves, entrances or changes in height, additional profiles may be needed to create a consistent finish.

What materials and tools are needed?

The exact materials will depend on the kerb type and driveway construction, but most installations need a prepared base, suitable bedding material and support around the kerbs.

This may include:

Concrete kerbs or driveway edging
MOT Type 1 or suitable sub-base material
Concrete or suitable bedding material
Sand and cement
Concrete for haunching
String line and setting-out pins
Tape measure
Spirit level
Rubber mallet
Spade and shovel
Cutting tools suitable for concrete products
Wheelbarrow
PPE

For longer runs, contractors may also need lifting equipment or mechanical assistance to move heavier concrete kerbs safely around the site.

How to install driveway kerbs and edging

Installation methods can vary depending on the product and driveway design, but most kerb and edging projects follow a similar process.

1. Set out the kerb line

Mark the position of the kerbs using a string line. Check the driveway width, finished levels, curves and access points before extraction begins.

2. Excavate the base

Excavate enough material to allow for the sub-base, bedding layer and kerb depth. The excavation should follow the planned levels and provide enough space for support around the kerb.

Remove loose or soft material before adding the sub-base.

3. Prepare and compact the sub-base

Add suitable sub-base material and compact it properly. The base should provide stable support across the full kerb line.

Check levels regularly, particularly where the driveway falls towards a drainage point or changes directions.

4. Add the bedding layer

Place the bedding material along the prepared base. The exact method will depend on the kerb product and project specification.

The bedding should provide even support so the kerbs do not rock or move after installation.

5. Position the kerbs or edging

Place each kerb or edging unit carefully and check the line, level and spacing. Use a rubber mallet where needed to make small adjustments without damaging the surface.

Continue checking the alignment as the installation progresses. Small changes can become more noticeable over a longer driveway edge.

6. Add support and haunching

Concrete haunching can be added behind the kerbs to provide additional support and help prevent movement.

The haunching should not interfere with the finished driveway construction or surrounding landscaping. Allow the support to set before placing heavy pressure against the kerb line.

7. Complete the surrounding surface

Once the kerbs are secure, complete the driveway surface, paving or surrounding landscaping.

Check that the finished levels support the planned drainage and that the kerb creates a consistent edge across the full project.

How do kerbs affect driveway drainage?

Kerbs and driveway edging can affect how water moves across the finished surface. If the levels are not planned correctly, a raised kerb may prevent water from reaching a drainage channel or suitable outlet.

Before installation, check the surface falls and direction of water movement. Kerbs should support the drainage design rather than create low points where water can collect.

Where drainage channels are included, the kerb levels should be coordinated with the channel position and finished driveway surface.

For larger commercial or access projects, drainage requirements should be considered as part of the full driveway specification.

Common kerb and edging installation mistakes

Good preparation and regular level checks can help prevent movement and uneven finishes.

Common mistakes include:

Choosing edging that is not suitable for the expected traffic
Not allowing enough depth for the base and bedding
Installing kerbs on loose or poorly compacted ground
Failing to check drainage falls
Using inconsistent spacing between units
Not supporting the rear of the kerb correctly
Allowing alignment to change along longer runs
Not planning curves or transitions before ordering
Applying heavy pressure before the support has set

Taking time to check the specification and setting out can reduce rework and improve the finished appearance.

Which kerbs or driveway edging should you choose?

Concrete kerbs are often a practical choice for driveways, parking areas and access routes where a strong edge is needed. Smaller concrete edging may be more suitable for paths, landscaping and lighter paved areas.

The best option depends on the driveway surface, expected use, finished levels and appearance required. Contractors should also consider drainage, kerb profiles, handling requirements and how the edging will connect with surrounding materials.

Planning the kerbs and edging alongside the driveway construction helps create a more consistent finish and makes sure the edge has suitable support.

Kerbs and driveway edging FAQs

What is the purpose of driveway edging?

Driveway edging helps define the boundary of a driveway and support the surface materials. It can also create a cleaner transition between the driveway and surrounding landscaping.

Are concrete kerbs suitable for driveways?

Yes, concrete kerbs are commonly used around driveways because they provide a strong and durable edge. The kerb profile should suit the driveway design and expected use.

What is the difference between kerbs and concrete edging?

Kerbs are generally larger and may be used where more support or a greater change in level is needed. Concrete edging is often smaller and commonly used around paths, landscaped areas and lighter paved spaces.

Do driveway kerbs need a concrete base?

The required base depends on the kerb type and project specification. Most kerb installations need a stable, well-prepared base and suitable bedding material.

Can kerbs be installed around curved driveways?

Yes, kerbs can be used around curved driveways. The curve should be planned during setting out, and suitable kerb units or installation methods should be used to maintain a consistent finish.

Final thoughts

Kerbs and driveway edging provide support, define finished levels and help create a clean edge around driveways and paved areas. Concrete kerbs are often suited to projects where strength is a priority, while smaller concrete edging can work well for paths and landscaped spaces.

For a reliable finish, plan the kerb profile, base, drainage and driveway construction together. As a builder’s merchant, Travis Perkins offers a range of kerbs, edging and landscaping materials for driveway and external works projects.

Kerbs and Edging for Driveways