What is haunching?

Haunching is the concrete support applied directly behind kerbs or edging courses to hold them in a fixed, upright position. Once a kerb is laid during a paving project, haunching concrete is placed against its rear face, creating a solid backing that resists the natural forces pushing the edge outward.

The purpose is practical and essential. As vehicles, foot traffic, or soil pressure work against the front of a kerb, haunching prevents it from tilting, cracking, or creeping away from its intended line. Without proper haunching, even well-laid edging will gradually move, especially in driveways, parking areas, and paths where lateral stress is constant.

Haunching is typically applied as a concrete mix poured and worked tight against the kerb's back face, often tapered for neat finish and drainage. The depth and specification of haunching varies depending on the edge type, expected traffic load, and ground conditions. In Cheltenham, where many residential and commercial paving schemes require stable long-term edging, correct haunching is a mark of professional installation by experienced contractors.

Proper haunching ensures that block paving and edging systems remain straight, level, and durable for years after completion, reducing the need for costly re-works or edge repairs.