Edging & Kerbs

Garden edging and kerbing refers to the border units installed along the perimeter of paved areas, driveways, paths, and garden beds to create clean, defined boundaries between different surfaces. Edging and kerbs are available in a range of materials including concrete, natural stone, and brick, and come in various heights, profiles, and finishes to suit different landscaping styles. They serve both a practical and aesthetic purpose, helping to contain paving materials, prevent edge movement, and give any outdoor project a neat, finished appearance. Whether used alongside block paving, gravel, or tarmac, edging and kerbing is considered an essential component of a well-structured outdoor space.

Edging and kerbing are similar products but differ mainly in their height and intended use. Edging units are typically flat or low-profile units used to separate paved surfaces from garden beds, lawns, or gravel areas. They are often used along paths, patios, and borders to keep materials in place and maintain a tidy finish. Kerbs, on the other hand, have a more pronounced upstand and are commonly used along driveways and roads where a stronger edge restraint is required. Kerbs are generally taller and more robust, designed to withstand vehicle pressure and provide a clearly defined boundary. Both products are installed on a bed of concrete and haunched to keep them secure and stable.

Yes, edging is essential for all flexible block paving installations. Without a solid edge restraint, block paving and tarmac surfaces can spread, shift, or crumble at the edges over time, which compromises the integrity of the entire paved area. Edging or kerbing units are installed around the full perimeter of the paved area before the main paving work begins, providing a rigid framework that holds the blocks in position. This prevents lateral movement and helps maintain the level and alignment of the surface. Many professional installers also recommend laying edge courses, sometimes called soldier courses, as part of the edging to create a framed, finished look.

Edging kerbs are installed by first digging a trench along the intended border line, deep enough to accommodate a concrete bed beneath the unit. A bed of concrete is laid in the trench and the kerb or edging unit is placed on top, aligned to a taut string line to ensure a straight or curved edge. Once the units are positioned at the correct height, haunching concrete is applied to the back of each unit to provide additional support and prevent movement. The haunching should be at least as wide as the edging unit and should reach at least halfway up its outside face. For driveways and areas subject to vehicle loads, a stronger concrete mix is recommended to ensure long-term stability.

Edging and kerbs are available in a wide range of materials to suit different budgets, design preferences, and project requirements. Concrete edging is one of the most popular options due to its durability, affordability, and availability in various profiles such as round top, bull nose, and flat top. Natural stone kerbs and edgings are also widely used, offering an attractive and premium finish for patios, driveways, and garden paths. Brick edging provides a traditional appearance and can complement many styles of paving. Decorative concrete and manufactured edging units are available in different colours and textures, allowing homeowners to create a cohesive look across their outdoor space.

Yes, edging and kerbing can play an important role in managing surface water drainage in garden and driveway projects. By creating defined borders around paved areas, edging helps to direct rainwater away from paths, patios, and driveways, reducing the risk of pooling or water damage. Channel kerbs are specifically designed to collect and redirect surface water towards drainage points or soakaways. Proper installation of edging ensures that water is managed effectively across the entire surface. When combined with a well-prepared sub-base and appropriate falls on the paved surface, edging can contribute significantly to the long-term performance and drainage efficiency of any outdoor project.

Curved edging can be achieved in several ways depending on the radius of the curve and the type of edging unit being used. Some kerb and edging products are available as purpose-made radius units, which are pre-shaped to form smooth curves without the need for cutting. These are commonly used for driveways and decorative garden borders. For tighter curves where radius units are not available, standard edging units can be cut into shorter lengths to follow the desired line. Flexible edging products are also available and can be bent to suit a variety of curved layouts. Using a taut string line or a marked guide on the ground helps to keep the curve consistent and accurate throughout installation.

When installed correctly on a well-prepared concrete bed with adequate haunching, edging and kerbing can last for many decades. Concrete kerbs and edgings are designed to withstand outdoor weather conditions, foot traffic, and in the case of driveway kerbs, regular vehicle loads. The longevity of edging depends largely on the quality of the installation, the strength of the concrete used for bedding and haunching, and the level of maintenance over time. Natural stone edging is particularly durable and can maintain its appearance for many years with minimal upkeep. Ensuring that the haunching remains intact and that no significant ground movement occurs beneath the units will help to preserve the edging throughout the life of the paved area.

Yes, one of the key practical benefits of garden edging is its ability to prevent grass, weeds, and vegetation from spreading into paved areas, flower beds, or pathways. By creating a physical barrier between the lawn and adjacent surfaces, edging reduces the amount of maintenance required to keep borders neat and tidy. This is particularly useful where a lawn meets a gravel path, patio, or planted bed, as grass roots can otherwise creep across and become difficult to manage. Concrete and stone edging units provide a solid, long-term barrier that holds its position over time. Regular edging also makes lawn mowing easier by clearly defining where the grass ends and the hard surface begins.

A dropper kerb is a specially shaped kerb unit designed to create a gradual transition between a full-height kerb and a lower surface level, such as a driveway entrance or a pedestrian crossing point. Dropper kerbs are commonly used where a pavement kerb needs to lower to allow vehicle access onto a driveway, or to provide a flush surface for wheelchair and pushchair users at road crossings. They are available in left-hand and right-hand versions to suit different installation positions and are typically installed alongside standard kerb units to create a smooth, safe transition. Dropper kerbs are manufactured to the same standards as regular kerbs and are bedded and haunched in the same way to ensure stability and a consistent finish.