Cobblecrete driveways in Leicester
Pattern imprinted concrete — the look of cobbles, setts or natural stone in one continuous, jointless slab.
What cobblecrete actually is
Cobblecrete — also called pattern imprinted or stamped concrete — is a reinforced concrete slab, coloured through and then imprinted with a textured mat while it is still workable. Once cured it is sealed, leaving a surface that reads as cobbles, setts or riven stone but has no joints at all.
Because it is one continuous slab there is nothing to sink individually, no sand to wash out and no gaps for weeds. It suits period properties and character frontages where the look of stone matters but the cost of real setts doesn't stack up.
The trade-off is that it is not permeable and repairs are less discreet than lifting a few blocks, so drainage and detailing need designing properly from the start. We'll be straight with you about whether it's the right choice for your property.
Where cobblecrete wins
Stone look, lower cost
The character of cobbles or riven stone for a fraction of the price of laying the real thing.
No joints at all
One slab means no sand to replenish and no gaps for weeds to take hold.
Nothing to sink
Individual blocks can settle; a reinforced slab moves as one, so the pattern stays true.
Wide pattern choice
Cobble, sett, slate, riven stone and brick effects in a broad range of colours.
Easy to sweep
A smooth sealed surface with no crevices — a brush and a wash is the whole routine.
Resealable
Resealing every few years refreshes the colour and protects the surface from oil and weather.
How we lay cobblecrete
- 01
Free survey and quote
We check levels, drainage and access, agree the pattern and colour, and issue a fixed written price.
- 02
Excavation and sub-base
The existing surface is removed and a compacted stone sub-base laid, with drainage designed in from the outset.
- 03
Reinforcement and pour
Steel or fibre reinforcement goes in, then the coloured concrete is poured, levelled and floated.
- 04
Imprinting
While the slab is still workable, release colour is applied and the chosen pattern mats are pressed in by hand.
- 05
Cutting, washing and sealing
Control joints are cut, the surface is washed to reveal the colour contrast, then sealed for protection and sheen.