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 the last 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, Duffield and the surrounding villages — but 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 price — usually within 48 hours of your first call.
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. We've worked on hundreds of driveways, patios, drop kerbs and full groundworks projects across the county.
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?
A well-installed block paving driveway lasts 25-30 years with minimal maintenance. We use a proper sub-base, geotextile membrane and kiln-dried jointing sand to maximise longevity.
How much does block paving cost in Derbyshire?
Prices vary by size, block type and groundworks, but most Derbyshire driveways fall between £80-£140 per square metre fully installed. We provide a free fixed quote after a site visit — no surprises.
What patterns and colours can I choose?
Herringbone, basketweave, stretcher bond and contrasting borders are all common. Standard colours include charcoal, brindle, buff and silver-grey, with premium ranges (granite-effect, tumbled, aged) available.
Does block paving need much maintenance?
Very little. We recommend topping up the kiln-dried sand every 2-3 years and an occasional pressure wash. Weeds in the joints are easily treated when they appear.
Tarmac Driveways
How long does a tarmac driveway take to install?
A typical residential drive takes 2-4 days from excavation to finish, depending on size and groundworks. The tarmac itself is laid in a single day after sub-base preparation.
How soon can I drive on new tarmac?
Wait 24-48 hours before parking heavy vehicles, and 7-14 days before any tight turning that could scuff the surface while it cures fully.
Do you resurface existing tarmac drives?
Yes — where the sub-base is sound. We'll assess whether resurfacing or full replacement gives you the best value over the long term.
How much does a tarmac drive cost?
Tarmac drives typically range £60-£100 per square metre fully installed in Derbyshire. Drop kerb, drainage and edging extras are quoted separately.
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 extra cost?
For low-maintenance, frost-proof, stain-resistant surfaces — yes. Porcelain costs more upfront but lasts decades with almost zero upkeep, and it doesn't fade or need sealing.
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 car. Every new vehicular access needs a council-approved dropped kerb.
How much does a drop kerb cost?
Dropped kerbs in Derbyshire typically cost £900-£2,200, depending on width, footway construction, and council fees. We handle the council application as part of the quote.
How long does the council take to approve?
Derbyshire County Council typically processes drop-kerb applications in 4-8 weeks. We submit the paperwork and liaise on your behalf.
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 spec.
Drainage
Do I need a drainage survey before a new driveway?
Yes. Without proper drainage, surface water undermines the sub-base and causes movement, sinking and cracking. 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 into 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. Most clients have us complete the whole front-and-back transformation in one project.
What fencing styles do you install?
Closeboard, featheredge, panel, post-and-rail, picket, and decorative metal. We source locally and install on concrete posts for longevity.
Process & Payment
What does the JGS process look like from start to finish?
First call → free site visit (usually within 48 hours) → 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?
Most jobs run on a small deposit at start, with the balance on completion. We discuss the payment plan in advance — 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.