How to choose and install kerbs for your driveway or patio

When you’re planning a new driveway or patio, kerbs are more than just a finishing touch — they’re a crucial part of the structure. Whether you’re creating a neat border, protecting the edge of your paving, or simply elevating your outdoor space, this guide will help you choose the right kerbs and understand how to install and joint them properly. 

Why are kerbs important? 

Kerbs (also called edge restraints) are essential for maintaining the structure of your paving, especially in flexible systems where block paving or slabs are laid on a bed of sand and jointed with more sand. 

Here’s why kerbs matter: 

• They prevent your paving from shifting – kerbs act as an edge restraint to stop your paving moving over time. 

• They define spaces – kerbs create a visual and physical boundary between paths, driveways, and garden beds. 

• They handle pressure– for driveways, kerbs are essential in preventing movement under the weight of vehicles 

So, if you’re laying a new driveway or patio at home, kerbs are a must-have for both function and finish.

How to install kerbs 

Installing kerbs correctly ensures your paving lasts longer and looks great. Here’s how: 

1. Prepare the bedding

Lay your kerbs on a solid mortar bed made from a 1:3 cement-to-sand mix, typically 25–30mm deep for domestic projects. 

2. Set the line

Use a string line and spirit level to keep your kerbs straight and at the right height. Take your time placing each unit for consistent alignment. 

3. Haunching

Once the kerbs are laid, haunch them – apply mortar at the back of the kerbs to secure them in place. The haunch should reach about two-thirds of the kerb’s height and be smoothed with a trowel for a clean finish. 

Two ways to joint kerbs 

Once installed, you have two main jointing options: 

1. Dry close jointing (2–4mm gap)

• No mortar required. 

• Faster and more cost-effective. 

• Avoid butt jointing (placing kerbs directly against each other), as it can cause chipping. 

• Leave a 2mm – 4mm gap between each unit. 

This is the most common method for domestic projects due to its speed and simplicity. 

2. Wider mortar jointing (5–10mm gap)

• Mortar is used between each kerb. 

• Takes more time and care. 

• Avoid staining the kerb face when applying mortar. 

This method offers a more traditional, hand-finished look and may suit certain styles better. 

Choosing the right kerb style 

When selecting kerbs, consider your personal taste, the style of your home, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. While all kerbs serve the same practical purpose, their visual impact can vary significantly. 

Finish Options 

• Smooth kerbs: Clean and modern – ideal for contemporary homes and sleek paving styles like porcelain or smooth concrete. 

• Tumbled or aged kerbs: Soft edges with a weathered look – great for traditional or rustic settings. 

• Textured Kerbs: Slight surface texture adds grip or visual contrast – often used in high-traffic areas. 

Shape and profile 

• Bullnose / rounded-top: A softer, curved edge that’s ideal for family spaces.

• Chamfered edge: A sloped edge offering a more formal, structured border. 

• Flat-top: A subtle, clean finish that blends perfectly with your paving. 

Colour choices 

Kerbs come in a wide variety of colours: 

• Complementary tones (e.g. grey kerbs with grey paving) for a seamless look. 

• Contrasting tones (e.g. charcoal kerbs with buff paving) for added definition. 

Tip: Match your kerbs to features like your home’s brickwork or roofline for a cohesive outdoor scheme. 

Still not sure? 

Most suppliers offer samples – take advantage!  Compare different options in your own space and lighting before making a final decision. Seeing how kerbs look alongside your chosen paving can make a big difference. 

The finishing touch that lasts 

With the right choice of kerbs and proper installation, your driveway or patio will not only look beautifully finished — it will feel like a complete, well-executed project that’s built to last.