Estimate the cost of a new driveway in tarmac, block paving, resin-bound, or gravel
Whether you are replacing a crumbling concrete drive or laying a brand-new surface on bare ground, understanding driveway costs before contacting contractors helps you budget realistically and spot over-priced quotes. Driveway surfacing is one of the most common home improvement projects in the UK, and prices vary significantly depending on the material chosen, the area involved, and whether excavation and sub-base work is needed. The four most popular driveway surfaces in the UK are tarmac (affordable and quick to lay), block paving (attractive and durable), resin-bound (modern and permeable), and gravel (cheapest option with low maintenance). Each has different installation costs per square metre, durability characteristics, and maintenance requirements. This calculator provides low, average, and high estimates for each surface type, with an optional excavation and sub-base allowance that adds to the total when existing ground needs to be dug out and prepared.
To estimate your driveway cost: 1. Enter the driveway area in square metres. Measure the length and width of the area to be surfaced. A standard single-car driveway is typically 15-20 m2, while a double driveway is usually 30-50 m2. For L-shaped or irregular driveways, calculate each section separately and add them together. 2. Select the surface type. Tarmac is the most popular budget choice. Block paving offers more design options and is easy to repair. Resin-bound gravel provides a smooth, permeable surface. Loose gravel is the cheapest option but requires regular maintenance. 3. Toggle the excavation and sub-base option. If you are replacing an existing surface, excavation may not be needed. For a new driveway on bare ground, excavation (typically 200-250 mm deep) and a compacted Type 1 sub-base are essential for a long-lasting result. This adds 15-35 per m2 to the project cost. 4. Review the three estimates. Budget assumes basic materials and a competitive contractor. Average represents standard specification with a reputable installer. Premium includes high-quality materials, decorative edging, and extended guarantees.
The calculator uses UK trade average rates per square metre for each surface type: Tarmac: 40-90 per m2 Block paving: 60-150 per m2 Resin-bound: 50-120 per m2 Gravel: 20-50 per m2 If excavation and sub-base preparation is included, an additional cost per m2 is added: Excavation: 15 (budget) to 35 (premium) per m2 Total cost = driveway area (m2) x (surface rate + excavation rate) The cost per m2 output shows the average all-in rate, which is helpful for comparing contractor quotes. All rates include labour, materials, and VAT at 20%. Regional variations apply, with London and the South East typically 10-20% above national averages.
Inputs: Driveway area: 30 m2, Surface type: Tarmac, Include excavation: Yes
Inputs: Driveway area: 50 m2, Surface type: Block paving, Include excavation: No
Inputs: Driveway area: 40 m2, Surface type: Resin-bound, Include excavation: Yes
Under permitted development rules, you need planning permission to pave more than 5 m2 of front garden with an impermeable surface unless the water drains onto a permeable area. Gravel and permeable block paving are exempt from this requirement. If your driveway crosses a public pavement, you will need a dropped kerb from your local council (typically 800-2,500). All prices are based on 2026 UK trade averages and include VAT. Always get at least three written quotes, check the contractor is insured, and ask to see examples of previous driveway projects in your area.