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myBlock Paving Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost of installing block paving is around £5,750.
- A typical block paving driveway takes 4 to 5 days to install.
- NEW! Check out our block paving driveway cost calculator to find out how much it costs to install block paving.
- A breakdown of new driveway costs, including different types of block paving materials, from concrete, brick, natural stone, and composite.
- How long a block paved driveway takes to construct, and the steps involved.
- How to find and hire a specialist to lay block paving using MyJobQuote.
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Trying to find out how much driveway block paving costs?
On average, you can expect an overall cost of anywhere between £2,500 to £11,000 to lay a block paved driveway in the UK, depending on the shape and size of the driveway, the type of blocks chosen, and how complex the design is.
A typical 60m² block paved driveway using standard brick blocks usually costs around £5,000 to £6,500, including materials, labour, and standard groundwork.
In this complete guide, you'll find a full list of prices for different types of block paving bricks as well as costs for labour. This makes it simple and easy for anyone to calculate the cost of brick paving.
Note: Monoblock is simply another term commonly used in Scotland for block paving, and both refer to the same type of interlocking driveway system.
If you're already ready to get an accurate quote, we have a range of paving installers across the UK who are ready to give you a free, no-obligation quote, or you can use our block paving cost calculator to get an instant estimate.
£5,750
Table of Contents
Block Paving Cost Calculator
How Much Does Block Paving Cost?
Block paving installation costs begin at around £2,500 for a simple 30m² driveway, and will increase up to around £11,000 for a large driveway with a complex design and premium materials.
The complexity of the design will, of course, increase the final cost of the project. A straightforward stretcher bond or basketweave pattern is usually quicker to lay, while more detailed designs such as herringbone or circular features take longer due to the additional cutting and labour involved. For a typical 60m² driveway, this can add several hundred pounds to the final quote.
The type of blocks used will also impact costs, with basic concrete blocks starting at £19 per m², but high-end composite blocks can reach £125 per m² before installation.
What is the most expensive material cost between resin bond, block paving, or imprinted concrete?
"Resin bond is the dearest, then imprinted concrete, close behind block paving with not much difference."
Block Paving Prices
For easy comparison, the table below outlines the various types of block paving options that are available and how much they typically cost to install (materials + labour) on different sized driveways.
| Driveway Size | Material | Typical Duration | Total Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30m² | Concrete Block Paving | 3 – 4 days | £2,500 – £3,500 |
| Brick Block Paving | £3,000 – £4,000 | ||
| Composite Block Paving | £3,500 – £4,500 | ||
| 60m² | Concrete Block Paving | 4 – 5 days | £4,500 – £6,000 |
| Brick Block Paving | £5,000 – £6,500 | ||
| Composite Block Paving | £5,500 – £7,500 | ||
| 90m² | Concrete Block Paving | 5 – 7 days | £6,500 – £8,500 |
| Brick Block Paving | £7,500 – £9,500 | ||
| Composite Block Paving | £8,500 – £11,000 |
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If you already have a block paved driveway that has sunk or become uneven, you may not need a full replacement. In many cases, a lift and relay can be carried out, where the blocks are lifted, the sub-base is corrected, and the existing blocks are reinstalled.
This typically costs less than a full replacement and is usually charged at around £20 to £45 per m², depending on the condition of the existing base and any additional repairs required.
Block Paving Cost Per m²
Most block paving quotes are calculated on a per m² basis, which typically includes both materials and labour.
As a rough guide, installed costs usually range from £50 to £120 per m², depending on the type of blocks used, the complexity of the design, and ground preparation required.
Cheaper concrete options sit at the lower end, while premium composite or natural stone finishes fall at the higher end of the range.
Blocks Only Cost
Concrete Block Costs
The basic paving prices for concrete blocks begin at around £19 per m². Concrete block paving driveway costs can increase to around £48 per m² for more elaborate colours and designs.
Brick Block Costs
A standard brick driveway cost begins at around £32 per m², and increase to around £65 per m². The cost of block paving bricks is not as cost-effective as concrete - however, it will provide a more aesthetic design appeal with the wider range of styles available.
Stone Block Costs
Stone is often the most expensive option when choosing a block paving style. The cost of stone blocks begins at around £60 per m² and increases to around £90 per m².
Composite Block Costs
Constructed with synthetic or resin-based materials, composite blocks are on the more expensive end of block paving supplies. Starting at around £75 per m² and increasing to £110 per m², composite blocks are also available in an almost endless array of colours, along with a variety of textures - however, they are often considerably higher than concrete block paving costs.
| Material | Cost per m² (supply only) |
|---|---|
| Concrete | £19 – £48 |
| Brick | £32 – £65 |
| Stone | £60 – £90 |
| Composite Resin | £75 – £110 |
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Block Paving Labour Costs and Timescales
Total labour costs for a block paving driveway usually range from £1,200 to £2,500, depending on the size of the driveway, the complexity of the design, and how much preparation work is required. Most installations require at least two workers, particularly where excavation, cutting, and edging are involved.
Although a general builder may be experienced in handling block paving projects, when it comes to driveway paving it's best to hire a specialist, especially if you choose a more complex design.
Here are the different types of tradespeople who can work on this type of project and how much it may cost to hire them, although bear in mind that labour costs are generally higher in and around London and the South East.
| Tradesman | Duration (Small to Medium Drive) | Daily Cost Per Person | Total Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Block Paving Specialist | 3 – 5 days | £200 – £250 | £1,200 – £2,500 |
| General Builder | 3 – 5 days | £150 – £200 | £900 – £2,000 |
| Labourer | 3 – 5 days | £100 – £150 | £600 – £1,500 |
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A block paving specialist will ensure the correct materials for your chosen style are used to make sure you get the results you're hoping for. Block paving specialists can design, plan, and recommend the materials to be used.
A general builder is often used to lead the entire project, and they can hire and control subcontractors in order to complete the work. This is usually the best choice if you're constructing a new driveway with a basic design, as they usually have extensive experience but charge less than specialists.
Labourers are used for heavy lifting, moving materials, and assisting with preparation work that does not require specialist skill. In many cases, a block paving specialist will work alongside a labourer to complete the project more efficiently.
Example Block Paving Costs by Location
Labour and installation costs can vary depending on where you live in the UK. Here are some typical examples for a 60m² driveway:
| Location | Typical Cost (60m²) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| London & South East | £5,500 – £7,500 | Higher labour and access costs |
| Midlands | £5,000 – £6,800 | UK average pricing range |
| North of England & Scotland | £4,500 – £6,200 | Often slightly lower labour rates |
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Block Paving Timescales
Block paving driveway installation usually takes 3 to 5 days for a small-to-medium driveway with an average design.
There are multiple factors that affect a project's timescale, the most obvious being the complexity of the project, the size of the build, and the final quality of the block work. Poor weather conditions can also delay the project.
A complex design such as herringbone or circular detailing usually takes longer than a simple stretcher bond pattern because more cutting and alignment work is needed. This can increase labour costs, especially on larger driveways.
Do you think it's worth my while to have my driveway gate measured by myself or by someone who has experience with installing gates?
"If you're unsure, it’s always best to get a professional or someone competent and knowledgeable enough to measure the gate correctly to save the chance of any issues occurring when it comes to the installation."
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Additional Costs of Installing Block Paving
Aside from the materials and labour, there are other costs associated with laying a block paving driveway:
- Weed Membrane - This will keep your driveway relatively weed-free and reduce ongoing maintenance requirements. Weed membranes start at £5 per m² but high-quality options cost around £12 per m².
- Dropping a Kerb - If you're installing a driveway where there wasn't one before, you may need to have a kerb dropped. Dropping a kerb prices average around £2,000, including the work itself and council application and inspection fees.
- Installing a Driveway Gate - If it's a brand-new driveway, you will also have to consider the cost of installing a new driveway gate, which averages around £700. You may want to add some extra security to your home with an electric gate, which costs around £3,000 to buy and install.
- Removing the Old Driveway - Removing an existing driveway usually costs around £20 to £50 per m², depending on the material being removed and waste disposal requirements. Concrete and heavily reinforced surfaces usually sit at the higher end of the range.
- Drainage Installation - Installing drainage channels or a soakaway generally costs between £500 and £1,500, depending on whether an existing drainage system can be used or a new soakaway is required. A soakaway for a typical driveway will cost around £1,000.
- Additional Landscaping - You may also want to consider the cost of additional landscaping features, such as planting borders or installing lighting around your new driveway.
While you have a block paving specialist available, it might also be worth considering upgrading your patio or garden path. You may save on costs by bundling these projects together. Adding a block paving path to your property could enhance its appearance and value, especially if the existing path is in need of renovation.
I need to have a drive built with permeable regulations. What are the best materials allowed?
"So long as you install a soakaway for surface water directed into a natural drainage area, such as grass or gravel, then your drive will be SuDS compliant. You could also install resin or permeable block paving."
Factors That Impact Block Paving Costs
There are a few main considerations when costing the price of constructing a new driveway. These include everything from the average block paving cost and type of block paving bricks being used, to the size of the project and complexity of your design, as well as the labour costs involved.
Quality and Type of Blocks
When planning to construct a driveway, the type of block paving bricks, texture, colour and quality of your chosen block paving materials affect the final costs.
Standard colours such as red, black, and grey will be more budget-friendly than custom colours such as yellows, greens, and blues.
Material also plays a role. Pavers made from concrete are considerably cheaper than composite, for example. Within the same material types, there are usually different quality grades to consider too, with higher-end materials naturally costing more.
Scale
The length and width of the finished area, as well as the shape will affect costs, too. Simple shapes like square or rectangular areas will be cheaper to cover than irregular-shaped areas. Irregular areas might also lead to access difficulties and further increase costs.
The greater the number of individual blocks required, the more labour-intensive the installation will be, potentially increasing the overall cost.
Complexity of the Design
The complexity of a driveway pattern can bring additional costs. For example, a simple chequered pattern will take less time to construct than a diagonal or herringbone design. In addition, spiral pattern designs will take more time and skill than a simple straight design.
Laying patterns can also increase labour costs, not only because of the additional time required to lay a complex pattern, but because you might need to hire a more experienced tradesperson who may have higher hourly or daily rates.
Block Paving Maintenance Costs
Cleaning and maintaining your new driveway can add to the overall costs in the long-term.
Regular cleaning with a broom and hosepipe will keep your driveway in good condition, or you can use a pressure washer for more stubborn stains. If it is very dirty, professional power washing is a better option.
To prolong the life of your driveway, sealing it every few years is recommended, especially if it is made from concrete blocks. You can also apply coloured dyes to restore the original colour or to change it.
Here's a look at how much maintaining a block paved driveway typically costs and how often each cleaning and maintenance job needs to be done:
| Maintenance Job | Average Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Sealing block paving | £15 - £45 per kit | Every 3 - 5 years |
| Power washing | £150 - £300 | Once a year, or as needed |
| Block paving dye | £10 - £30 per bottle | When colour restoration is needed |
| Cleaning fluids | Varies by product | As needed for stains, algae, or general cleaning |
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As you can see, block paving offers a fairly low maintenance driveway in the long run.
I had block paving installed in my driveway six years ago, but it appears to have sunk by now. Do you know why this has happened, and what can be done about it? Should I hire a professional?
"It needs that area lifting to check the sub base to see what has sunk dig out to make sure you haven't got a broken pipe in that place, then reinstate with new type one sharp sand, then blocks."
Block Paving Alternatives
Block paving is not the only option for driveways. There are different routes a homeowner can take when choosing the type of driveway to install.
There are various advantages and disadvantages to each, from cost, durability, availability, and fitting requirements, meaning that not all driveways are equal.
Let's take a look at some of the key alternatives to block paving:
| Type of Driveway Material | Cost per m² (low to high) |
|---|---|
| Gravel | £40 – £70 |
| Tarmac | £45 – £80 |
| Resin | £60 – £95 |
| Concrete | £85 – £10 |
| Imprinted Concrete | £100 – £130 |
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Checklist: Hiring a Block Paving Specialist in the UK
Firstly it's always best to contact more than one company before hiring for the job, therefore it's highly recommended to request at least 3 different quotes so you have more than one comparison to go on. This is where MyJobQuote can help point you to the right place, with no obligation until you are confident to do so.
- Are they properly certified or qualified? Look for credentials like a CSCS card, City & Guilds, or relevant college-level training.
- Do they have public liability insurance? Insurance protects you in case of property damage or injury during the job.
- Have they understood your design preferences? They should clearly grasp your desired style, pattern, and layout for the driveway.
- How much experience do they have with block paving? More years in the trade usually means better craftsmanship and reliability.
- Can they show a portfolio of past work? Photos of previous block paving jobs can show their attention to detail and finish quality.
- Have you compared styles of block paving? Look at different designs in the photographs, or ask if they have local examples or a showroom you can visit.
- Have you read independent reviews or testimonials? Trusted feedback from previous clients can give insight into their professionalism.
- Do they offer a written work guarantee? Most reputable tradesmen offer a guarantee on their work, with 5 to 10 years reflecting confidence in their skills.
- Are their costs clearly itemised and reasonable? Transparent pricing helps you compare quotes and avoid hidden fees.
- Have you agreed on a final price? Clarify whether the price is fixed or an estimate before any work begins.
FAQs
Is Block Paving Expensive Compared to Other Driveway Types?
Block paving is generally mid-range in cost compared to other driveway options. It is usually more expensive than gravel or tarmac, but cheaper than resin-bound surfaces or highly decorative imprinted concrete. However, it offers strong durability and can last over 25 years with proper maintenance, which makes it good long-term value.
Do I Need Planning Permission for a Block Paved Driveway?
You will not need planning permission for a block paved driveway if it is made from permeable materials that allow water to drain through. If it is not permeable, you may need to obtain planning permission or ensure rainwater is directed to a suitable drainage system or lawn.
What’s the Best Time of Year to Install Block Paving?
Spring, summer, or early autumn months when the weather is dry and temperatures are moderate. Cold or wet conditions can affect the curing process and cause delays with the driveway installation itself, or can impact the paving setting correctly and the quality of the end result.
Can I Lay Block Paving Over an Existing Driveway?
In some cases, block paving can be laid over an existing surface such as concrete or tarmac. Although only if the base is structurally sound and sufficiently prepared. However, it is often recommended to remove the old surface first to ensure a solid foundation and to prevent shifting or cracking at a later date.
Can I Install Block Paving Myself?
Most homeowners hire professional tradesmen, as block paving is a difficult skill to get right without prior experience. If you do wish to attempt the job yourself, it is best to stick to simple repairwork or try a small area first to avoid any costly mistakes.
How Much Does Block Paving Removal Cost?
Removing a standard 60m² driveway would cost around £1,200 to £2,500 (including waste removal), or an average of approximately £20-£50 per m². However, this does not include the cost of laying a new driveway or additional ground preparation.
How Long Until I Can Use a New Block Paving Driveway?
After installation, it’s generally recommended to wait at least 24–48 hours before driving or walking on your block paving to allow it to settle properly.
What Drainage Does a Block Paving Driveway Require?
Proper drainage should be included to prevent weather damage and to stop water from pooling. This can include a slight slope to naturally drain the water, or a dedicated drainage channel to direct excess water away from your property.
How Long Does Block Paving Last?
With proper installation and maintenance, block paving can last for over 25 years without impacting its appearance or durability.
Can Block Paving Be Laid on a Slope?
Yes, block paving can be laid on a slope. However, it requires careful preparation and a strong base layer, it may also require additional edging installed to prevent movement or erosion.
