RS Bespoke Gardens

Monobloc vs Granite Setts Driveways

Monobloc driveway with granite setts and planting by RS Bespoke Gardens

The short answer

Monobloc (concrete block paving) is the most popular choice in Scotland. It comes in a wide range of colours and patterns, is easy to repair and usually costs less to lay. Granite setts are natural stone: exceptionally hard-wearing, with a traditional look, but they take more labour.

Plenty of driveways use both, with monobloc in the main area and setts for borders or the apron.

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At a glance

MonoblocGranite setts
MaterialConcrete blocksNatural granite
LookEven and neat, in a wide range of colours and patternsTraditional, with natural tones and texture
DurabilityVery good for a domestic drivewayExceptionally hard-wearing
Colour over timeCan soften or fade graduallyKeeps its colour
SurfaceSmooth and evenSlightly textured, with more grip
RepairsIndividual blocks lift out and relayCan be relaid, but matching setts may be harder to source
Cost to layUsually lowerUsually higher, as it takes more labour

The main differences

Durability

Both handle everyday car traffic for decades when properly laid. Granite is harder still and copes with heavy loads and turning wheels particularly well.

Appearance

Monobloc gives a neat, even finish in many colours. Setts have a traditional, characterful look that suits older properties and works well as a border.

Maintenance

Both need an occasional sweep, a top-up of jointing sand and the odd weed pulled. Monobloc colours can soften over the years, while granite keeps its colour.

Cost

Monobloc is usually cheaper to lay. Setts cost more because each one is handled and set individually. The overall price depends mainly on size and groundwork.

What matters more than the surface

A driveway is only as good as what is underneath it. Sinking, rutting and puddles are groundwork problems, whichever surface you choose.

  • Dug out to the right depth for vehicles
  • A compacted sub-base built for the weight
  • Edge restraints, so the surface cannot creep
  • Falls and drainage that take water away from the house

Which should you choose?

  • Modern home, wide choice of colour: monobloc.
  • Older or traditional property: granite setts, or setts as a border.
  • Best of both: a monobloc driveway with granite sett borders, banding or an apron.

In Scotland, a new front driveway usually doesn’t need planning permission as long as rainwater drains within your property rather than onto the road. We design every driveway with that in mind. See our driveways page for more.

Monobloc and setts questions

Concrete block colours can soften gradually with sun and weather. Granite keeps its colour.

Traditional setts have a slightly textured surface. Sawn-top setts give a flatter finish if that matters to you.

Yes, and it is one of the most popular options: monobloc for the main area, with setts for borders, banding or the apron.

Usually not for a front driveway, provided rainwater drains within your property rather than onto the road.

Thinking about a new driveway? Call 01236 728098 or request a free quote.

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