A driveway installer designs and constructs hard-standing surfaces for vehicles at residential and commercial properties - covering block paving, natural stone, resin-bound aggregate, tarmac, concrete and gravel. The choice of surface affects whether planning permission is required: permeable surfaces (gravel, permeable block, resin-bound) generally do not require permission for front gardens in England, while impermeable surfaces over 5 square metres do. A good driveway installer will advise on the most appropriate surface for your site conditions and planning context.
What they do
- Survey the site - levels, drainage, access, existing surface and sub-base condition
- Excavate to required depth and dispose of spoil
- Construct sub-base to specification (typically 100-150mm compacted MOT Type 1)
- Install edge restraints - concrete kerbs, brindle edging or soldier courses
- Lay block paving, natural stone or porcelain on sand or mortar bed
- Apply resin-bound surfacing on prepared tarmac or concrete base
- Lay tarmac - base course and wearing course - with whacker plate compaction
- Install drainage channels and connections to soakaway or sewer
- Create dropped kerb (requires highway authority approval) where needed
- Apply sealer or jointing compound to block paving on completion
When you need one
A new or replacement driveway is a significant investment - the quality of the sub-base preparation determines how well it will perform over the next 20+ years.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Block paving (supply+lay, per sq m) | £80 - £150 |
| Natural stone (supply+lay, per sq m) | £100 - £200 |
| Resin-bound (supply+lay, per sq m) | £90 - £160 |
| Tarmac (supply+lay, per sq m) | £40 - £80 |
| Gravel (supply+lay, per sq m) | £20 - £50 |
| Porcelain paving (supply+lay, per sq m) | £100 - £200 |
All prices include excavation, sub-base and edge restraints. The sub-base depth (typically 100-150mm compacted Type 1 for cars) is the most important factor in long-term performance. Never accept quotes that do not specify the sub-base depth and material.
Qualifications to look for
The major block paving manufacturers operate approved installer schemes - certification means the contractor has been trained and assessed on correct installation to the manufacturer's specification, which is required to access extended product warranties.
Several resin-bound product manufacturers operate their own approved installer schemes, ensuring correct preparation, mix ratios and application technique.
How to find a reputable driveway installer
Frequently asked questions
Do I need planning permission for a new driveway?
In England you do not need planning permission for a permeable driveway (gravel, permeable block paving, resin-bound surfacing) regardless of area, or if surface water drains to a lawn or border rather than the road. An impermeable surface over 5 square metres does require planning permission unless water is directed to a soakaway or suitable drainage area. Check with your local authority if you are in a conservation area or have a listed building.
What is resin-bound surfacing?
Resin-bound is a mixture of natural aggregate (stone, gravel or recycled glass) and a clear polyurethane resin, applied to a prepared base and trowelled smooth. It is porous (water passes through it), weed-resistant, durable (15-25 years) and has a high-quality decorative appearance. Its permeability means it does not require planning permission for front garden use, making it popular as an alternative to block paving.
How long does a new driveway last?
Well-installed block paving lasts 20-30 years. Resin-bound surfacing lasts 15-25 years. Tarmac lasts 15-20 years. Gravel lasts indefinitely with periodic top-ups. The most common cause of premature failure across all driveway types is inadequate sub-base preparation - too thin or poorly compacted - which leads to settlement and cracking within a few years.