When it comes to upgrading your driveway, the surface material usually gets all the attention. But if you really want a polished finish that lasts, don’t overlook the edging.
Edging doesn’t just make a driveway look smarter — it helps keep everything in place, improves drainage, and protects against wear and tear. At Newcastle Paving, we install edging on almost every project we do. It’s a simple detail that makes a big difference.
Whether you’re starting fresh or updating an old drive, here are the driveway edging options that are proving most popular with Newcastle homeowners right now.
Why Edging Matters
Edging isn’t just decorative — it plays an important structural role.
A good edge:
- Stops gravel, blocks, or resin from spreading out
- Provides a visual boundary between the driveway and garden or footpath
- Adds contrast and style
- Helps channel water away from the surface
- Supports the load of parked vehicles
In a city like Newcastle, where rain and frost are frequent, edging can also help prevent erosion around the sides of your drive.
1. Block Paving Edging
Still one of the most popular choices in Newcastle, block paving edging offers a clean, durable finish.
It works especially well alongside:
- Block paved driveways
- Tarmac driveways (for contrast)
- Resin-bound surfaces
You can lay the blocks flat, upright (soldier course), or at an angle (splayed). Colour contrast is a popular option too — like using charcoal blocks to frame a brindle driveway.
At Newcastle Paving, we often recommend block edging for its strength and versatility. It handles car pressure well and won’t crack under normal conditions.
2. Natural Stone Setts
For homeowners wanting a premium look, stone setts are becoming more common in both traditional and modern builds.
Granite, sandstone, or limestone setts can be laid as a border around a resin or gravel driveway, or as a decorative strip across the entrance.
Natural stone is:
- Long-lasting
- Visually striking
- Available in a variety of textures and colours
It pairs well with older homes in Gosforth, Jesmond, or coastal properties where rustic charm is part of the appeal.
3. Concrete Edging Kerbs
Concrete edging is practical and budget-friendly, making it a go-to option for large driveways or new builds.
These pre-formed kerbs come in various shapes and sizes, including:
- Flat top
- Round top
- Bull-nosed
- Chamfered
They’re ideal for driveways that need clear separation from roads, paths, or garden beds. With the right colour and finish, they can look just as sharp as stone — but at a lower cost.
4. Steel or Metal Edging
Minimalist and modern, steel edging is growing in popularity with contemporary homes.
It’s a great choice for:
- Resin-bound driveways
- Gravel driveways
- Curved layouts
Metal edging is sleek and discreet — you barely see it from above. But it’s strong enough to hold the shape of your driveway and resist movement over time.
It’s not the cheapest option, but it offers long-term durability with a clean look.
5. Timber Sleepers
Timber edging is less common on front driveways but works well for rustic or informal designs — especially in garden-adjacent areas.
Pressure-treated sleepers or treated timber planks can be used to edge gravel drives, create raised beds beside the driveway, or act as a boundary between paving and grass.
While it looks great, timber does require some maintenance in Newcastle’s wet climate. Without regular treatment, it may rot or warp over time.
6. Brick Edging
Brick is a timeless choice, especially if you want to match the style of a red-brick home.
It’s laid much like block paving but offers a slightly softer, more traditional look. You can go for full brick edging or mix it with natural stone or tarmac for added contrast.
Brick edging is also easy to repair if damaged — making it a practical choice as well as a stylish one.
7. Gravel Stabiliser Panels with Built-In Edging
If you’re planning a gravel driveway, stabiliser grids are a smart upgrade.
Some of these honeycomb-style systems include built-in edging or clips that hold the shape of the gravel surface, preventing spread over time.
They:
- Keep gravel in place
- Reduce ruts and dips
- Help with water drainage
- Can be hidden under the gravel for a natural finish
At Newcastle Paving, we often suggest this for homeowners who want a low-maintenance gravel drive without the usual mess.
Which Edging Option Is Right for You?
It depends on:
- The surface material of your driveway
- Your home’s style (modern, traditional, rustic, etc.)
- Whether you want a bold or subtle finish
- Your budget
- The shape and layout of your space
If you’re unsure, we’re happy to show you samples during a site visit and walk you through the pros and cons of each option. Sometimes the smallest detail — like the colour or texture of the edging — can completely change the look of your whole drive.
Final Thoughts
Edging might not be the first thing you think about when planning a driveway — but it’s one of the details that makes the biggest difference.
A well-chosen edge improves strength, structure, and style all at once. It keeps everything tidy, functional, and visually sharp.
At Newcastle Paving, we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners choose the right driveway edging to suit their property. If you’re upgrading your drive or starting from scratch, get in touch for a free consultation. We’ll help you choose a finish that looks great and lasts for years.
Get A Quick Quote
Please provide your contact details here and we’ll get back to you shortly with a quote. We aim to respond to all quote requests in 24 hours.
