Driveway specialists work with concrete, block paving, asphalt, gravel and resin to create driveways, patios and paths. They may be skilled in one area of driveway installation or they may install driveways in all materials. The average cost per hour for a driveway contractor is £28, but it can range from £18 - £42. Specialist companies that deal with one type of material may charge more than a company that installs all driveway types.
See our driveway specialist rates table for more hourly rates broken down by location. Or, post your job on HaMuch and get a more accurate quote for free.
Most driveway specialists will give you a day rate, since installing a new driveway is likely to take at least a day or two. The average day rate for a driveway company is £205, but again, depending on where you live and the type of project it could range between £133 - £250.
You’ll often find that smaller, driveway companies will charge less than larger ones as they will have fewer overheads.
Check our rates table for driveway specialist day rates in your area.
When looking for the cheapest quotes from a driveway company, here are some tips to consider:
Research multiple companies: Start by researching and identifying several driveway companies in your area. Look for companies with positive reviews and experience in the type of driveway material you are interested in. Gather a list of potential companies to contact or use HaMuch to get recommendations.
Define your requirements: Before reaching out to driveway specialists, clearly define your requirements for your project. Determine the size, material, design and any specific features you have in mind. Having a clear understanding of what you need will help you communicate your requirements effectively to the companies and allow them to provide accurate quotes.
Compare quotes: Once you’ve got quotes from multiple companies, compare them carefully. Look beyond just the price and consider the services offered, the quality of materials, the company's reputation and any additional value they provide. Cheaper quotes may sometimes mean compromising on quality or services, so evaluate the overall package and choose the option that best meets your needs and budget.
Negotiate: Don't be afraid to ask for discounts or negotiate the price with the companies. They may be willing to offer a lower price or provide additional services at a reduced cost to secure your business. Be open and transparent about your budget limitations and see if there is any flexibility in the pricing.
Consider your timing: The timing of your project can also impact the cost. Some driveway companies may offer discounts or promotions during slower seasons or when they have less demand. Ask about any seasonal offers or discounts that may be available and consider scheduling your project to take advantage of cost savings.
Remember, while getting the cheapest quote is important, it's equally crucial to consider the driveway specialist’s reputation, experience and quality of work. Make sure to choose a reputable company that can deliver great results within your budget, as opting for the lowest price without considering other factors may result in costly fixes.
Choosing the right driveway specialist is essential to ensure you’re 100% happy with your new driveway. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
Check credentials and experience: Verify the credentials and experience of the driveway companies you’re considering. Look for licenses, certifications and affiliations with professional associations in the industry. Consider how long the specialist has been trading and their track record of successfully completed projects. Experienced companies are more likely to have the expertise and knowledge to handle various challenges that may arise during your project.
Portfolio and references: Ask to see a portfolio of the driveway specialist's previous work. This will give you an idea of their style, craftsmanship and attention to detail. Ask for references from past clients and reach out to them to ask about their experience with the company. Hearing first-hand from previous customers can provide valuable insights into the specialist's professionalism and communication.
Specialisms: Consider the range of services offered by the driveway company. Do they specialise in the type of driveway material you want, such as asphalt, concrete, block paving or resin? Ensure that they have the necessary expertise and experience in handling the specific type of driveway you want. Plus, if you require additional services such as dropped kerb installation or driveway gate installation, check if the company provides these services as well.
Written estimates and contracts: Obtain written estimates from the companies you are considering. The estimate should outline the scope of work, materials, costs and any additional terms or conditions. Carefully review the estimates and compare them to ensure you understand the pricing and what’s included. Once you’ve selected a company, ensure that you sign a detailed contract that specifies all aspects of the project, including timelines, payment terms and warranty information.
Insurance and liability coverage: Verify that the driveway company has the right insurance coverage. This includes liability insurance to protect you in case of accidents or damages that occur during the project. Ask for proof of insurance and ensure it’s valid and up to date.
Communication and professionalism: Pay attention to the company's communication and professionalism throughout the initial interactions. Are they responsive to your enquiries? Do they listen to your questions and provide clear explanations? A reputable driveway company should communicate effectively, address your concerns and provide professional guidance and recommendations.
Resin driveways are becoming more and more popular. A resin-bound driveway involves spreading a resin and aggregate mixture over a sub-base and offers a permeable, SUDs-compliant solution. Resin-bonded driveways involve spreading resin over the surface then scattering aggregate over it, so will need added drainage to be approved by your local authority.
How much your resin driveway costs will depend on a few factors:
The best thing to do is to get detailed quotes from driveway specialists so you can break down the costs and see what’s involved.
Lots of people think that tarmac is a material, but it’s actually one brand of asphalt. Most UK roads and pavements are made from asphalt, and it’s a popular choice for driveways too. Tarmac driveways are a cost-effective driveway solution that’s hard-wearing and will last a long time. How much an asphalt driveway costs depends on:
Job | Estimate |
Lay a tarmac driveway | £3000 |
Resin driveway | £1500 |
Cost to lay a new driveway | £2400 |
Lay an imprinted concrete driveway | £3150 |
Lay a new gravel driveway | £2125 |
Driveway gates | £1700 |
Lay a concrete driveway | £3000 |
Lay a block paving driveway | £3140 |