....Not that there aren't lots of experts here... But has anyone else seen the wonderfully useful site pavingexpert.com? Father and son business in England. Father retired, son had accident and can no longer work on site in the trade so set up this non-profitmaking internet site instead. They hope to help professionals (to maintain good standards) and non-professionals (so the latter can either do the work themselves or check that the firm they have contracted is doing it properly.) It is SO useful; clear, concise, witty and beautifully organised. You should see their guestbook; pages and pages of testimonials from building contractors, landscapers and DIYers from all over the world going crazy with gratitude. Will explain everything you ever wanted to know on the subject. Or didn't know you wanted to know (I was particularly delighted to find out that the splashes of mortar or concrete on slabs are called "snots" in the trade - in UK, at least.)

Just thought people might find it useful - free, unbiased, easy-to-understand advice. And they will make you laugh, too.

Almeria

PS I am posting this on the Landscape design forum too