Block Paving Cost

Trying to find out how much block paving costs? In this article you'll find a list of prices per square metre for different types of brick and block paving. This makes it simple and easy for anyone to calculate the cost of their specific job.

How Much is Block Paving?

How much does block paving cost? The cost of paving begins at around £3,000 for a small to average-sized driveway and will increase up to £7,000 for a large driveway with a complex design. The complexity of the design will increase the final cost of the project. A simple pattern will often take around 3 days, costing £5,000, and more complex herringbone design takes up to 5 days costing £5,750; for the same small to the average-sized driveway.

And it's not just the complexity of the pattern that can increase prices. The main factor is of course the size of your driveway, but another large factor is its current condition. The prep work before laying the block paving is one of the most time consuming aspects of the job, and naturally comes with a high labour cost.

First seen in the 1980s, block paving has slowly increased in popularity over the years. Originally constructed from coloured cement or concrete blocks, it is common to lay the blocks into an intricate pattern, such as a herringbone design. Specialist manufacturers now offer a wide range of materials, from concrete, stone, and cement, to composite, resin, and stone. These various materials are often available in a wide range of colours and textures.

Block paving technology and methods have advanced with the years; however, the cost is still a major factor when deciding if you wish to undertake such a project. Compared to tarmac, or simple concrete, block paving is still one of the most expensive options.

Block Paving Prices

For easy comparison, the table below outlines the cost of various types of block paving options that are available.

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 ranges 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 £65 per m², and increase to around £95 per m².

Composite Block Costs

Due to the new technology used in their construction, composite blocks are on the more expensive end of block paving supplies. Starting at around £90 per m² and increasing to £125 per m², composite resin blocks are available in nearly limitless colours, and a variety of textures, however, are considerably higher than concrete block paving costs.

Labour Costs and Timescales

When hiring any tradesman for building work, you need to consider what specific jobs actually need doing, as not all tradesmen can handle the same types of work. A block paving specialist will usually be hired when constructing a block paving driveway; however, a General Build may also be used. Whether you choose a block paving specialist or a General Builder, it will depend on what style of block paving you have chosen, the complexity of the design and the materials to be used. Below is a list of various tradesmen you may require and the jobs they will be undertaking.

Tradesmen Costs

Block Paving Specialist

When planning a block paving driveway, it is usually best to hire a specialist in the field; in order to make sure the correct materials, the correct style is used, and you get the results you are wanting. Specialists are able to design, plan, and recommend the materials to be used. Then after planning, they are able to undertake the plan and construct your desired driveway. The cost to hire a Block Paving Specialist will usually be around £200 per day, with the standard-sized driveway taking 3-4 days to complete, costing around £600-£800.

General Builder

A general builder is often used to lead the entire project. They can hire and control subcontractors in order to complete the work. Also, if constructing a driveway with a basic design, a general builder is often the better choice than a specialist, due to the robust nature of their experience and lower labour prices which can be offered. A general builder will usually cost around £100 to £150 per day to hire, depending on the level of job required, the skills they possess, and the amount of experience.

Labourers

The most inexpensive form of tradesman, a labourer, should not be overlooked when costing the job. Usually, a specialist will provide their own personal labourer; however, even so, you should be mindful of the costs to hire them. The day rate of a simple labourer will usually be £50 to £60 per day. They are used for all the heavy lifting work, moving materials, and jobs that do not require a specific skill.

Timescales

One of the most important factors when considering any building work is obviously timescale. The longer a project takes to complete, the larger the final costs will become. Timescales of a project decide on the final cost of labour, as the longer a job takes, the longer you will be required to pay your selected tradesmen.

There are multiple factors, which can affect the timescale. The most obvious being the complexity of the project, the size of the build, and the final quality of the blockwork. Choosing to construct a complex design such as a herringbone will take almost twice as long as a simple chequered pattern, at around 3-4 days compared to 2 days. However, these factors will also depend on the level of complexity in the plan, the skills the tradesmen possess, and the number of tradesmen needed to be hired for the project.

Additional Block Paving Costs

The final aesthetics of a driveway is another factor to consider when figuring out the cost price of your project. As with most building projects, there are various different options for how the final design will look. Each option will vary the final cost price of the completed driveway and should be carefully considered before the final design is decided.

Weed Membrane

To keep the driveway weed-free and reduce the amount of maintenance required to keep it looking clean and new, a weed membrane is often required. These will begin at around £12 per m² for a quality, long-lasting, and resilient variety. However, more cost-effective versions are available beginning at around £5 per m². These membranes are laid below the initial blocks and are usually the second action performed after the space is dug out.

Driveway Gate

After the driveway paving cost, the entrance of the property should be considered. This will usually be an ideal time to construct a new driveway gate. This can usually be included in the building project and constructed by the block paving specialist or general builder. A simple metal driveway gate will often begin at around £50 for a pair and increase to around £250 for a bespoke custom-made gate.

Landscaping

After the driveway has been completed, it may be a good idea to hire a landscaper to redo the rest of the front area of your property. From patches of grass, flowerbeds, to fences, and general borders, a landscaper can help assist in designing the perfect look. It will usually begin at around £150 per day to hire a landscape specialist. However, you may be able to hire your general builder to undertake this work, depending on their skills and experience.

Cost Factors of Installing Block Paving

There are a few main considerations when costing the price of constructing a new driveway, from type of blocks, scale and size of the project, to the complexity of your design. Each factor can either increase or reduce the overall cost of the project. Therefore, planning for these is essential when deciding on how to proceed with the build.

Type of Blocks

When planning to construct a driveway, the type of material, texture, and colour of your chosen blocks will affect the final costs. You should carefully assess your desired finished result, along with the advice of your hired specialist to select the right block type for you. From concrete and brick to stone or composite, the price will vary from block types, colours chosen, and availability. Standard colours such as red, black, and grey will be more budget-friendly than custom colours such as yellows, greens, and blues.

Scale

The chosen scale will help to determine the overall cost of your driveway installation. Scale means the length and width of the finished area. This is all decided during the design phase of the construction and will have a large effect on the cost of the project.

Complexity

The complexity of a driveway pattern can vary depending on the desired final design, materials chosen, and even the skills of the tradesmen hired to build it. The more complex a driveway design is, the greater the time, skill, and money it will take to finish. 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 a greater amount of time and skill than a simple straight design.

Landscaping

Once the driveway has been built, it will often require some form of landscaping to be carried out. Choosing to perform landscaping to the surrounding areas, such grass and flowerbeds can increase the final build time considerably, this, in turn, will increase the labour costs. Often, when a driveway is constructed close to a wall, a border may also be needed for drainage.

What's Involved in Installing a Block Paving Driveway

Budgeting

The first step of any project is always to plan a budget. This is a very important step, as there is no point in starting a project if you cannot afford to complete it. Factors such as materials, labour, and additional expenses need to be calculated at this stage. However, the budgeting stage may need to be revisited after the planning stage, when the design of the driveway has been chosen.

Planning

The planning stage is a vital part of the process when deciding to construct a block paving driveway. The design you are going to construct can usually be decided with the help of the block paving specialist. After you have made these decisions, the specialist will then draw up a design plan, or be able to provide you with examples of what the finished driveway will look like. This will then allow the specialist to provide you with a quote so you can see an approximate cost for the materials, and if any other the tradesmen are required.

Quotes

Quotes are vital to any construction project, as not all tradesmen charge the same rates for the same job. It is always best to get at least three quotes from three different companies, in order to ensure you are getting the very best for your money.

Purchasing materials

The materials for the project will often be purchased through, or by, the tradesmen hired to carry out the work. Whether you have the tradesmen purchase the materials or you source them yourself, you will need to understand what materials you require for the project. The specific materials required will be defined within the plan/quote for the driveway, and if purchased through the tradesman, will often be the simplest and cost-effective option. It is possible to source the materials yourself; however, this can prove to be a more expensive choice, due in part to the tradesmen having contacts and accounts within the construction industry and often receiving a discounted rate from the supplier.

Construction

The construction stage will often undergo the same step, regardless of the design chosen. First, the area will need to be excavated (dug out) to the required depth of the plans. Then a weed membrane will need to be laid in the area. After the membrane is laid, the blocks will need to be laid out in the pattern required by the plan. Next, the blocks can be fixed down in the decided positions will the use of a cement mix. This cement mix can be applied dry or wet, depending on the style required, and local climate. Finally, a layer of sand and cement is scattered onto the tops of the blockwork and swept into the gaps.

Cleaning

With the driveway now complete, it is time to clean the excess sand cement mix from the surface. This cleaning step is performed once the driveway has had time to dry thoroughly, and can often be done with a simple hosepipe, pressure washer, or even buckets of water and a broom. This work is usually best performed by the labourer (if hired), or can even be undertaken by yourself, as it is not a complicated or time-consuming job.

Landscaping

To finalise the project, it is common to have the surrounding area landscaped. If you desire grass areas, fences, or flowerbeds to surround your new driveway, it is often the most cost-effective choice to undertake this simple stage yourself. However, if you do not wish to undergo this work yourself, you may require the skills of a gardener or landscaper. These can be expensive to hire at around £125 per day. However, a finished driveway will always look more aesthetically pleasing once this step has been completed

Block Paving Buying Guide

Not all Block paving blocks are created equally; there are pros and cons for each style. Materials used, aesthetic appeal, and availability all factor into which block would be best for the construction of your driveway. Some blocks have obvious advantages over others, and yet some may have subtle differences you may not consider from the beginning. It is always best to compare your needs before planning which driveway you will construct.

Concrete Block Paving Cost

The simplest and most cost-effective type of block material is basic concrete. These are pre-made in a factory, available in multiple colours, and are very hardwearing. The major advantages of this kind of blockwork would be the price point, the easy availability, and the hardwearing nature of the materials. The base cost of concrete paving blocks begins at around £19 per m² and can increase to around £48 per m² for more elaborate colours and designs. The downside of concrete style blocks is the low quality of construction when compared to brick and other styles. In addition, the availability of concrete while cost-effective can become a disadvantage, as colours can be limited.

Brick Block Paving Cost

Brick is also a very common type of block chosen for block paving projects. Also being factory-made, usually by brick making specialists. The advantages of this style of blockwork are the variety of styles, different sizes, and custom colours available. The most common sized variety begins are around £32 per m² and increase to around £65 per m². This type of block is not as cost-effective as concrete; the overall increase in price and reduced durability when compared to concrete are the main negative factors with this style.

Stone Block Paving Cost

The disadvantages of choosing stone for block paving is that it does have limited availability of colours, textures, and types. This is second to the increased price of the materials when compared to brick or concrete options. The cost of stone blocks begins at around £65 per m², and increase to around £95 per m². The main advantage of choosing stone over other types of blockwork is it will often provide the most aesthetically appealing final design. It can also be considered as more resilient to various patterns of weather, erosion, and damage.

Composite Block Paving Cost

A modern, newly available, type of block is the composite resin block. Cast out of polymer-based resins, the advantages of these blocks are they are extremely hardwearing, and versatile. Specialist varieties of composite resin blocks are often constructed from recycled materials, making them an environmentally friendly alternative to the standard stone or brick options commonly used. A disadvantage of these styles of blockwork is the new technology used in their construction; this makes composite blocks more expensive when compared to other styles on the market. Starting at around £90 per m² and increasing to £125 per m², depending on colour and style chosen.

Things to Consider When Installing a Block Paved Driveway

One of the first choices to be made with paving is to choose between clay bricks or concrete blocks. Concrete blocks are relatively cheap, and there are plenty of styles to choose from, including textured blocks.

The disadvantages of concrete blocks are that they tend to fade in colour over time, and they can also wear down, which will eventually expose the aggregate. Clay paving bricks are slightly more expensive than concrete but are extremely hardwearing, and their natural colour will not fade over time. However, they are prone to moss growth and the tolerance in terms of sizes can be quite variable so they can be more difficult to lay.

In terms of colour, there is no definitive answer to choosing the best colour; it’s a decision which has to be made considering the surroundings, the lighting, and of course, personal taste. Most block paving consists of a single uniform colour, often red, but there are multicolour block systems on sale.

There are many factors affecting the price of a block driveway, the most obvious of course include the size and shape of the driveway, but there are other less obvious factors. You can expect your new driveway to cost more if there are any inspection or manhole covers located on the driveway.

The cheapest way to deal with this problem is to leave the inspection chamber in place and replace the cover with a recessed cover that will accept peeling locks so will not be immediately obvious that there is a manhole there. Another cost factor that should be considered for new driveways is the additional cost of dropping a kerb.

If you need a new entrance, or intent to widen the existing driveway entrance then you may need to lower the kerb that will need permission from the local council, and you will also probably need to use one of their approved contractors.

Building Regulations for a Block Paving Driveway

When concerning block paving, Building Regulations do not generally apply. However, performing alterations to an existing driveway, you do need to make sure that access to the property is maintained to the same standard as before the alterations where undertaken.

An example of this would be if you decided to change the level of the original driveway to include a set of steps where none had previously been before would be covered by the building regulations.

If you are creating an entirely new driveway, then specific rules will apply to the property. If you have chosen to use permeable surfacing such as concrete blocks, with a dry mix bedding to allow water to drain through, you will not require planning permission. The same goes for porous style block paving, such as specialist composite resin varieties.

In addition, when the surface is less than 5m², you will not require planning permission for traditional, impermeable driveway surfaces. If, however, your planned driveway is over 5m², the surface will need to provide facilities for the water to run off to a permeable area.

If in doubt as to whether your planned driveway will be within permitted development rules and planning permission requirements, it is always best to refer to your local authority.

Can I Install Block Paving Myself?

Block paving is extremely difficult to get right. If you do not possess extensive experience of how to lay block paving, bricklaying, or general building, it is always the better option to choose to hire a block-paving specialist. If, however, you still wish to try your hand at DIY block paving, then it would be best to start small. A small area, or path, in your garden would be an ideal place to attempt block paving before you try your hand at a larger project such as a driveway.

The cost of just the materials for creating a driveway will begin at around £2,000 for a small driveway and increase to around £4,000 for a larger area. If you decide to attempt this yourself it may save you around £2,000 for the specialist block-paver. However, bear-in-mind, to fix potential mistakes, you may end up hiring the specialist after all.

The materials you will require should you decide to undertake the project alone are blocks, sand, cement, and water. The simplest tools required for the project are a bucket (or cement mixer), a paddle for mixing cement, a trowel, a spirit level, a spade, and a stiff broom.

Cost of Maintaining and Cleaning Block Paving

After you've fit your new driveway, the cleaning and maintenance is now an important consideration. Depending on how much work you would like to perform, there are various options for maintenance routines. From sealing, cleaning, and general maintenance to specialist finishes, dying, and cleaning machinery, there are many options to keep your new driveway in tiptop condition.

Cost of Sealing Block Paving

Whether you would like to reduce the amount of cleaning required, or just wish to prolong the life of your driveway, sealing the finished blockwork is a recommended option. Depending on the style of blockwork chosen, you may not need to have it sealed. However, if concrete blocks were used, in order to reduce the wear and any growth of unwanted moss, sealing kits can be purchased from as little as £15 per 5m² and will increase to around £45 for more extensive larger area kits

To seal a driveway is often very similar to applying paint, the sealers will come as a clear liquid that can be either brushed or sprayed onto your new driveway. This is a very simple process and can more often be performed by the homeowner, with little to no experience. All sealers will provide instructions on the bottle/tin, and often will not require specialist equipment.

Cost of Cleaning Block Paving

If you have chosen to seal your driveway, you will find it easier to clean the area. This will also reduce how often cleaning would be required. In general, cleaning can be done with a broom and hosepipe. By simply wetting the driveway and scrubbing the area with a stiff broom, will usually be sufficient to clean most driveways. However, if more thorough cleaning is required, a pressure wash can be used to remove more stubborn dirt. The price to purchase a pressure washer will usually begin at around £40 for a basic model, and for just a hosepipe and brush it will cost around £15.

Dyes and cleaning fluids

When you decide to seal your driveway, you can choose to purchase a dye at the same time. These dyes would allow you to colour your driveway if you weren't able to get the colour blockwork you originally desired. Blockwork (or concrete) dye will usually begin at around £10 for a litre bottle and can increase to around £30 for a larger more specialist branded bottle.

Cleaning fluids can also be purchased to reduce the amount of work it takes to clean a driveway. However, the majority of these are just the same as using a normal soap-based product, such as washing up liquid. Before purchasing any form of cleaning fluid, it is always best to research reviews for the product online, and make sure the fluid is environmentally friendly and not chemically harmful or possibly damaging to your garden or driveway.

Alternatives to Block Paving

Block paving is not the only option for driveways; there are multiple different routes, which a homeowner can take when choosing the type of driveway to install. There are various advantages and disadvantages to each, from cost and durability to availability and fitting difficulty require, not all driveways are equal to each other.

Concrete

Concrete driveways are not only available in block form but also can be laid in a slab. This is not as cost-effective as gravel and will require a builder, or concrete specialist to lay. However, if the concrete is laid correctly, it can be one of the longest-lasting driveway options. For the materials required to lay a concrete slab to cover a 10m² driveway, it will cost around £50 for the sand, £25 for the cement, and £200 for the general builder to construct. Therefore, the total cost would begin around £275 for a standard small-sized driveway.

Gravel

A gravel driveway is the simplest and most cost-effective driveway option available for those on a fixed budget. Installing a gravel driveway is as simple as digging the area out, laying a weed membrane, and then spreading gravel over the membrane to cover it completely.

The cost of gravel is around £50 per ton bag, this will usually cover an area of 10m² to 25m², depending on the depth of the area. Along with the weed membrane, this will cost a total of £70 for a 10m² driveway for just the materials.

Tarmac

The most common form of driveway, after block paving or gravel, would be tarmac. Tarmac driveways are not a low-priced option and will always require a specialist to install. Much like a concrete driveway, the area will need to be dug out and then a layer of sand to level the area. After the sand is compacted, the tarmac will have to be laid over the top. For a 10m² driveway constructed in tarmac, it will usually cost £1,000 for the tarmac and £500 for the specialist to install it.

Though tarmac is an expensive option when compared to gravel or other styles, it is one of the most durable choices. It will also require the least amount of maintenance to keep in good condition.

The Cost of Removing Block Paving

When you no longer require a block paving driveway, you will need to remove it. In addition, if you have an old, dilapidated block work or driveway, you may wish to replace it with a newer, nicer looking construction.

Removal of a block paving driveway can be a complex process. Regardless of the style of blocks you chose, it would require a few basic elements, such as a skip or waste removal, labour, and basic cleaning supplies. Skip hire will usually cost around £200 for a single skip, hired for a week, with pick up and disposal. This may not be large enough for a larger sized driveway, and you may need to either hire a second skip or have it emptied when filled.

Usually, when removing the blocks from a driveway, for ease of removal, you will probably be best served in hiring a tradesman such as a general builder. They can usually provide all the tools needed and even dispose of the waste produced. An average builder will be able to complete a block paving driveway removal within a week. This means it would cost you an average of £600, including the skip hire costs and labour.

Hiring a Block Paving Tradesman Checklist

• Depending on the tradesman hired, these can be in the form of CSCS certification, City and Guild levels, or even college gained qualifications such as HNC’s.
• The most important consideration when hiring any tradesman is the insurance. Make sure they possess, at the least, third party liability, which covers building work. At best, you want to find a tradesman, which has personal injury, property damage, and work guarantee cover.
• Evidence of previous work is also a good consideration when hiring any tradesman. If they have references from previous clients, photos, or a portfolio of their work, it will prove they are proud of the level of skill they can provide.
• Does the tradesman offer any form of guarantee for the work they are going to undertake? Most will offer in some form or another to make sure you are happy with the job before they finish. However, it can be worth looking for a tradesman who offers a five-year guarantee or greater. Then if any problems arise in the future, due to any faults in the building process, you are covered, and they will fix their mistakes at no expense to you.

FAQs

Sources

https://hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-improving/do-i-need-planning-permission/
https://www.angloinfo.com/
https://www.tobermore.co.uk/
https://www.marshalls.co.uk/block-paving
https://www.forterra.co.uk/formpave/block-paving