Why a Proper Sub-Base is Key to Any Project…

Before admiring the smooth finish of a new driveway there’s something far more important to think about and that’s what’s lies beneath. A beautiful surface means nothing if it’s not built on a solid foundation.

At CS Paving & Surfacing we’ve seen it all… From sunken driveways to car parks riddled with potholes, all because the base layer was poorly prepared. It is paramount to get the sub-base right so that the surface can stay strong, smooth and safe for years to come.

What is a Sub-Base?

A sub-base is the foundation layer installed between the natural ground and your chosen surface. For us, general practice to use MOT Type 1 aggregate or crushed stone, compacted in layers for strength. Without a strong base, your driveway, car park, or road won’t last.

Why a Proper Sub-Base Matters

Strength & Load-Bearing Capacity
A foundation with the right amount of depth and proper compaction supports vehicles, foot traffic and even heavy machinery without deterioration.
Drainage & Water Management
Quality base preparation ensures water drains correctly preventing pooling, frost and erosion.
Long-Term Durability
Skipping the sub-base might save money at first, but it almost always leads to driveway resurfacing or full replacement far sooner than necessary.
Smooth, Even Finish
A stable driveway base layer stops dips and uneven settling, keeping your surface looking professional and safe to use.

Our Sub-Base Preparation Process

Every project we take on follows industry best practices for driveway construction:

Excavating to the correct depth based on the surface type.
Installing high-quality MOT Type 1 aggregate.
Installing a geotextile membrane.
Compacting in layers to create a solid, stable foundation.
Setting proper gradients for drainage before the final surface is laid.

We begin installing the top layer only when we have installed the right foundation and have addressed any drainage issues — this applies to all of the surface installations we carry out.

Signs of a Poor or Missing Sub-Base

If your new surface shows the following signs, the original driveway base preparation may have been skipped or done poorly:

Cracks appearing within the first year.
Sunken or uneven sections.
Standing water after rain.
Loose, shifting surface materials.

A professional finish starts from the ground up. At CS Paving & Surfacing, we build every project on a foundation that lasts — ensuring our customers get a long-lasting driveway or commercial surface that looks great and performs under pressure.

📞 Contact us today for a free quote from trusted driveway installation contractors who understand the value of a proper sub-base.