How much does block paving cost in the UK? (2024 Prices)

Are you considering laying block paving but unsure of the costs involved?

Look no further as we have created an easy-to-follow guide to help you get a breakdown of block paving costs. With no set average block paving cost in 2024, we have done the research for you.

What you will find is that the cost of block paving will vary depending on your location, with the South of the UK being the most expensive area when finding a block paving installer.

Luckily, it’s quite a competitive industry. For example, when searching for a block paving installer in Manchester where our head office is located, you will likely comes across 15+ companies.

One things for certain, the larger and more complex your project, the higher the cost will be. Let’s take a look at what other factors will influence block paving cost in the UK.

How Much Will Block Paving Cost?

The cost of block paving your driveway or patio will depend on several factors. The average cost for block paving is around £70-£75 per square metre, but this can vary depending on the size of the area, the type of blocks used, and the complexity of the design.

When calculating the cost, it is important to consider additional expenses such as labour costs, waste removal, and any necessary groundwork. These are usually rolled into the overall cost supplied to you by your chosen paving company.

Here are some typical block paving prices for driveways and patios:

• Basic blocks: £20-£30 per square metre
• Mid-range blocks: £30-£50 per square metre
• High-end blocks: £50-£100 per square metre

In addition to the cost of the blocks, you may need to pay for extras such as edging, drainage, and sealing. It is also important to factor in the cost of any necessary planning permission.

To ensure that you get the best value for your money, it is important to shop around and compare quotes from different block paving installers. Look for reputable manufacturers and consider the most popular block paving styles and designs. We personally recommend Marshalls products, as they are considered the best block paving supplier in the UK.

Overall, the cost of block paving can vary greatly depending on your specific needs and preferences. By taking the time to research and plan ahead, you can ensure that you get a high-quality, long-lasting result that meets your budget.

Factors Affecting The Cost Of Block Paving

When it comes to block paving installation, various factors can affect the overall cost of the project. In this section, we will discuss the different cost factors that you should consider before starting your block paving project.

Materials

The type and quality of materials used for block paving can affect the overall cost of the project. For instance, natural stone paving is more expensive than concrete block paving, but it adds value to your property and looks stunning. Choosing different colours and styles for your block paving will also increase the complexity of the job and the time taken, resulting in higher costs.

Foundations & Basework

The sub-base of your block or concrete driveway is essential for stability and durability. The amount of work needed to excavate and install your base will add to your block paving cost per m2. The condition of your existing driveway can also dictate the price you pay. If your tradesman needs to remove trees or do serious excavation to lay the base, he will expect more money for the labour. Cutting corners on the base work can result in sinking, cracking, and other problems.

Removal & Disposal Of Existing Driveway

If you already have concrete paving slabs or block paving in place, it makes sense to pay to remove it. This will add to the average brick paving cost for labour. For a large driveway removal, you can expect an expert to take a few hours to get everything up and out of the way. You may also need to hire a breaking hammer machine or cement breaking machines to break up the existing sub-base.

It’s recommended to pay your local and reliable trades to take away the driveway debris once it’s up and out. However, if you want to save money, you can always cart away the old block and concrete on your own. The longer you keep your tradesman working, the more you pay.

Membrane To Prevent Weed Growth

Weed membranes are recommended if you want to avoid weed growth on your new block paving driveway. This extra resource will add an average of around £1 per m2 to the overall cost of block paving. Weeding might cost you more if you have to invest in special sprays in the long run.

Sealing

Sealing your block driveway or patio can protect it against moss growth, weather damage, and more. However, it will increase the overall cost of the project. The average cost of sealing a block driveway or patio is hugely variable depending on the sealer and the size of your project. Expect this to extend the labour time at the very least (within the £175 per day). Prices will also vary depending on the tradesperson.

In summary, block paving installation cost factors include materials, aggregates/basework, labour costs, excavation of existing concrete paving, waste removal, skips, weed membranes, and sealing. By considering these factors, you can estimate the overall cost of your block paving project and ensure that you get a quality installation that meets your needs and budget.

Building Regulations for Your Block Paving Driveway

If you plan to lay non-permeable block paving on an area larger than five square metres, you will need a sustainable drainage system. To avoid this, you can opt for permeable concrete blocks, which do not require planning permission. To further assist drainage, you can let water drain into your borders or grass. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in a fine of £234 or more.

Typical Costs to Install Block Paving

Block Paving Driveways Prices

If you’re considering block paving for your driveway, it’s important to know the typical costs involved. The cost of installing a block paved driveway can vary depending on the size of the area, the materials used, and the complexity of the installation.

Small Block Paved Driveway 20m2

For a small block paved driveway with an area of 20m2, you can expect to pay around £2,100 in total. This includes material costs of £900 and labour costs of £1,200. The installation is expected to take around 2 days, and it’s suitable for a single car space.

Average Sized Block Paved Driveways

For an average-sized block paved driveway with an area of 40m2, you can expect to pay around £4,000 in total. This includes material costs of £1,800 and labour costs of £2,200. The installation is expected to take between 3 to 4 days, and it’s suitable for 2-3 car spaces.

Large Driveways

For a large block paved driveway with an area of 80m2, you can expect to pay around £7,000 in total. This includes material costs of £3,500 and labour costs of £3,500. The installation is expected to take between 5 to 6 days, and it’s suitable for 5-6 car spaces.

Block Paved Patio Prices

Block paving is also a popular choice for patios, and the cost of installation can vary depending on the size of the area and the materials used.

Small Block Paved Patio Area 20m2

For a small block paved patio area with an area of 20m2, you can expect to pay around £1,700 in total. This includes material costs of £700 and labour costs of £1,000. The installation is expected to take around 2 days, and it’s suitable for a table and chairs.

Average Sized Block Paved Garden Patio

For an average-sized block paved garden patio with an area of 40m2, you can expect to pay around £3,600 in total. This includes material costs of £1,600 and labour costs of £2,000. The installation is expected to take around 3 days, and it’s suitable for a table, chairs, seating area, and fire pit.

Large Patio or Multiple Patios

For a large block paved patio with an area of 80m2, you can expect to pay around £6,600 in total. This includes material costs of £3,300 and labour costs of £3,300. The installation is expected to take around 5 days, and it’s suitable for a BBQ area, furniture, trampoline, and shed.

Additional Costs To Expect When Installing Block Paving

When installing block paving, there are additional costs that you should expect. These costs include:

Block Paved Step

If you want a matching block paved step, it will cost you around £150 for 3 hours of installation time. Specialist corner kerbs will be installed, and the step will be created using boot kerbs and blocks.

Double Step

For a double step, you can expect to pay around £250 for 5 hours of installation time. This includes the installation of specialist corner kerbs and boot kerbs to match the blocks.

Drainage

If you need drainage installed to catch water flowing towards your house, a channel will be created in front of brickwork or garage to protect from water. You can expect to pay around £80 per linear metre, with installation taking approximately 1 hour per linear metre.

Boot Kerbs

Boot kerbs allow for high raised borders. Boot kerbs designed to match the blocks are set in concrete, and installation takes approximately 30 minutes per linear metre. You can expect to pay around £40 per linear metre.

Covers For Manholes

If you want your manhole covers swapped for inset trays and blended with the paving, you can expect to pay around £250 each. This includes the removal of the manhole and the insertion of a specialist tray, with paving taking approximately 3 hours.

It’s important to note that the bigger the job, the higher you can expect block paving prices to be, on average. Additionally, driveways generally need more excavation and labour, which is why block paving driveway prices are typically higher than patio prices. However, shallower digging and compacted stone for patios are likely to be cheaper on average, as foot traffic is the only thing to consider.

How unique your design is will also impact the pricing of your block paving. For example, the unique cutting that was required for us to complete the job below meant that this small section of the driveway cost much more than a single block standard driveway.

Does Block Paving Still Increase House Prices in 2024?

It’s a good question. In 2024, with rising interest rates and inflation, most of us have less disposable income than in previous year. 

Any money we spend on our properties matters more than ever, especially if it’s not your forever home. 

Luckily, a new driveway or landscaped garden significantly improves the curb appeal of your property, enhancing the price. 

It is still one of the best ways to add value to your property. Not only will buyers love the front aspect of your property, they’ll be thankful that they don;t need to incur the time and effort is takes to find a reputable block paver and have a new driveway installed. 

Advantages of Block Paving

Block paving is a popular choice for driveways and patios for several reasons:

• Installing block paving can increase the value of your property.
• A well-finished block paving enhances the kerb appeal of your property.
• Block paving comes in numerous colour options to choose from.
• You can lay block paving in different patterns and designs to create a unique look.
• Interlocking concrete block paving provides strength for where you park your car.
• Individual paving blocks can be replaced, so no costly repairs.
• Specialist block pavers fade less than some alternatives.

Overall, block paving is a durable and practical choice for your outdoor space that can also add aesthetic value to your property. Below is an example of a driveway that we installed in Manchester. This significantly improved the front aspect of the driveway for these homeowners.  

What is Block Paving Made From And Does It Impact Price?

Block paving is a popular option for driveways, patios, and other outdoor spaces. There are various types of block paving available, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are the three main types of block paving materials you may encounter:

Concrete Blocks

Concrete blocks are a popular choice for block paving due to their affordability and versatility. They are relatively easy to install and can withstand some wear and tear. However, their colour may fade over time. It is important to also consider the cost of edging stones when opting for concrete blocks.

Clay Blocks

Clay blocks are a more sustainable option than concrete blocks, although they tend to be more expensive. They offer excellent grip and do not require sealing against the elements. Clay blocks can be trickier to handle, but their benefits make them a preferred option for many.

Brick

Brick is an excellent choice if you want a uniform and visually appealing block paving driveway. It offers natural grip and requires little maintenance after installation. However, a careful sub-base is necessary to prevent breakage and slipping.

Overall, the choice of block paving material depends on your preferences, budget, and the intended use of the paved area.

Best Block Paving Manufacturers

When it comes to paving your driveway or patio, choosing the right manufacturer is crucial. Here are some of the best block paving manufacturers in the UK and Ireland:

• Marshalls – With the largest range of block paving in the UK, Marshalls is the go-to choice for many homeowners. Their Driveline 50 is the country’s top-selling block paving, and they also offer coordinating edging stones and accessories such as weed membrane and jointing compounds.
• Barleystone – With over 80 years of experience, Barleystone is a reliable choice for both residential and commercial projects. They offer a broad range of paving solutions and installation services.
• Brett – Brett is one of the leading suppliers of paving in the UK, offering a wide range of blocks and accessories like kerb-stones and border edging.
• Bradstone – Bradstone offers a diverse range of paving options, from porcelain tiles to concrete paving blocks and hard landscaping features. They even manufacture an eco-friendly reduced carbon option for environmentally conscious homeowners.
• Tobermore – Tobermore’s Artro range of block paving comes in a range of colours, and they also offer Tegula setts for a more traditional look.

Each of these manufacturers offers a unique range of products and services to suit your paving needs. Whether you’re looking for durability, style, or eco-friendliness, there’s a manufacturer out there for you.

Below is a fine example of a driveway in Manchester that we installed recently using Marshalls products. 

Styles and Types of Block Paving

Popular Colours

Block paving is a popular choice for driveways, paths, and patios due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. When it comes to choosing the right block paving for your project, the colour is an important consideration. Here are some of the most popular colours of block paving in England:

• Granite – a timeless and elegant choice that complements any property style.
• Light Grey – a modern and minimalist option that creates a sleek and clean look.
• Grey – a classic and versatile colour that suits a range of property styles.
• Charcoal – a bold and dramatic choice that adds depth and contrast to any design.
• Brindle – a blend of red and charcoal hues that offers a unique and eye-catching appearance.
• Red – a warm and inviting colour that adds character and charm to any property.
• Burnt Ochre – a rustic and earthy option that creates a warm and welcoming feel.

Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary look, there is a block paving colour to suit your style and taste. With a range of colours to choose from, you can create a bespoke design that complements your property’s exterior and enhances its kerb appeal.

Below is an example of a side driveway that we created recently in Manchester. The property owner wanted the driveway to be separated from the patio area at the back of the house. Both of these areas were created using Marshalls products. 

Finding Expert Block Paving Installers

When searching for reliable and local block paving companies, Google is always a good place to start. Look for a paver that has a high number of quality reviews which are clearly written by real users. You’ll soon be able to narrow down your options to a few select installers in your area. 

If you’re in Manchester or Cheshire, we would love to quote for your block paving project. You can view all of our 5 star reviews on Google here. 

Block Paving Alternatives

If you’re looking for an alternative to block paving, there are several options available that can give your driveway a unique look. Here are some of the most popular alternatives:

Resin-Bonded Surfaces

Resin-bonded surfaces are a great option for driveways due to their durability and relatively low cost per square metre. They are also low maintenance and permeable if bound. However, they may not have the same eye-catching look as block paving.

Tarmac

Tarmac is a practical option for those who prioritise weather resistance and slip-resistance. It is highly durable and can last for many years. It’s also cheaper to install than block paving. However, it may not have the same visual appeal as block paving. Tarmac is common on new build houses in the UK, but we often see it replaced after around 10 years. 

Gravel

A gravel driveway can look stylish and is often cheaper than block paving. However, it requires more maintenance as loose stones can easily spill out of place. It is a reliable and cost-effective option for those looking for a bespoke look.

Block Paving FAQs