Below are the questions we get asked most often by Derbyshire homeowners. Grouped by topic — general, block paving, tarmac driveways, patios, drop kerbs, drainage, fencing & landscaping, and process & payment.
General
Where is JGS Construction based?
We're based at 3 Tumbling Hill, Heage, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 2BX. Family-run from the same yard for over 35 years.
What areas of Derbyshire do you cover?
We cover all of Derbyshire — most of our work is in Belper, Ripley, Heanor, Kilburn, Codnor, Derby, Alfreton, Matlock, Chesterfield, Long Eaton, Ilkeston and Duffield, plus the surrounding villages. We travel further on larger jobs.
Do you charge for quotes?
No. Every quote is free and no-obligation. We'll visit your property, survey the area, and give you a fixed written quote after the site visit.
Are you a family-run business?
Yes — John (Owner & Founder) and Joe (Owner & Site Manager) run JGS, with a small qualified team. No subcontractors, ever.
How long have you been operating?
Over 35 years on the tools in Derbyshire.
Are you insured?
Yes — fully insured with public liability cover. We're also Derbyshire County Council Trusted Traders and Street Works Qualified (NRSWA, registration 00808775).
Block Paving
How long does a block paving driveway last?
Block paving is a long-lasting surface when it's installed properly. The right sub-base, edge restraints and jointing sand all play a part — we install every job to last.
How much does block paving cost?
Every job is unique. Cost depends on size, block type, groundworks, drainage and access. We provide a free, fixed written quote after a site visit so there are no surprises.
What patterns and colours can I choose?
Herringbone, basketweave, stretcher bond and contrasting borders are all popular. There's a wide choice of colours and premium ranges available — we'll bring samples to your site visit.
Does block paving need much maintenance?
Very little. We recommend topping up the kiln-dried jointing sand from time to time, an occasional clean, and the odd weed treatment in the joints when needed.
Tarmac Driveways
How long does a tarmac driveway take to install?
Most residential drives are completed in a few working days, depending on size, groundworks and weather. We agree a clear timeline as part of your quote and stick to it.
How soon can I drive on new tarmac?
We'll let you know on the day — it depends on the mix and the weather. As a rule, wait a little while before parking heavy vehicles and longer before tight turning so the surface fully cures.
Do you resurface existing tarmac drives?
Yes — where the sub-base is sound. We'll assess your site and recommend whether resurfacing or full replacement is the best long-term value.
How much does a tarmac drive cost?
Every job is unique. Cost depends on size, groundworks, drainage and access. We provide a free, fixed written quote after a site visit.
Patios
What patio materials do you install?
Indian sandstone, porcelain, riven slabbing, block paving and natural stone. We help you choose based on look, budget, durability and maintenance preference.
Are porcelain patios worth the cost?
Porcelain is low-maintenance, frost-proof and stain-resistant. It's a higher upfront investment but lasts for many years with very little upkeep — no sealing required.
Can you remove and replace an old patio?
Yes — full break-out, disposal, sub-base preparation and re-lay. We leave the site clean and tidy.
Drop Kerbs
Do I legally need a dropped kerb?
Yes — driving over an upstand kerb without a drop is illegal in England and damages your vehicle. Every new vehicular access needs a council-approved dropped kerb.
How much does a drop kerb cost?
Cost varies depending on width, footway construction and council fees. We handle the council application as part of the quote and give you a fixed written price.
How long does the council take to approve?
Council approval times vary. We submit the paperwork and liaise on your behalf so you don't have to chase.
Are you qualified to work on the public footway?
Yes — we are Street Works Qualified (NRSWA, registration 00808775) and approved by Derbyshire County Council to install drop kerbs to specification.
Drainage
Do I need a drainage survey before a new driveway?
Yes. Surface water has to go somewhere — poor drainage undermines the sub-base and shortens the life of any driveway. We survey drainage on every job before a single block is laid.
What is SuDS-compliant drainage?
Sustainable urban Drainage Systems — permeable paving, soakaways or connection to a watercourse — that prevent runoff onto the public sewer. Where the regulations require it, we design SuDS-compliant solutions.
Can you fix existing drainage problems?
Yes — blocked soakaways, broken channel drains, pooling water, damp issues caused by poor drainage. We diagnose first, then quote the right fix.
Fencing & Landscaping
Do you do fencing as part of a driveway job?
Yes — fencing, gates, decking and landscaping are part of our standard service. Many clients have us complete the whole front-and-back transformation as one project.
What fencing styles do you install?
Closeboard, featheredge, panel, post-and-rail, picket and decorative metal. We install on concrete posts for longevity.
Process & Payment
What does the JGS process look like from start to finish?
First call → free site visit → written fixed quote → agreed start date → groundworks and surfacing by our own team → sign-off walkthrough. No surprises, no high-pressure sell.
How do I pay?
We'll set out the payment terms in writing as part of your quote. No hidden fees, no chasing.
Do you offer a guarantee on your work?
Yes — every job carries our personal workmanship guarantee. We're local and family-run, so we stand behind what we install.