Guide
Driveway Materials Compared
Choosing a driveway surface is a balance of looks, durability, drainage and budget. Here is how the main options compare for a typical London home.
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- Driveways and paving across all of London
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Resin-bound
A mix of resin and aggregate trowelled to a smooth, porous finish. It looks clean and modern, can meet the front garden drainage rules when laid on a permeable base, and needs little upkeep. It needs a sound base and a skilled installer. See resin-bound driveways.
Resin-bonded
A thin layer of resin with stone scattered on top. It is quicker and cheaper than resin-bound, but the surface is rougher and is generally not permeable. See resin-bonded driveways.
Tarmac
A durable, practical choice laid in a binder and wearing course. It suits long drives and commercial areas, and is usually economical. It can look plain, but can be edged and finished neatly. See tarmac driveways.
Block paving
Individual blocks on a sub-base and bedding layer, with edge restraints. It is flexible, can be lifted and repaired, and comes in many colours and patterns. It needs the right base, and joints may need re-sanding. See block paving driveways.
Gravel
Loose stone over a membrane and grid. It is inexpensive and permeable, and can look natural, but stones move without grids and it can be awkward for wheelchairs and pushchairs. See gravel driveways.
Concrete and imprinted concrete
Strong and long lasting. Imprinted concrete adds pattern and colour. It is not permeable, so drainage needs planning, and cracks can be difficult to repair invisibly. See concrete and imprinted concrete.
Natural stone and porcelain
A premium finish with a very long life. Stone and porcelain need careful installation and cost more, but suit period properties and high-end schemes. See natural stone driveways.
Planning and drainage
In England, paving more than 5 square metres of a front garden with a hard, impermeable surface needs planning permission unless the water drains to a lawn or border within the property, or the surface is permeable. See our guide to planning permission for a driveway.
Related paving services
Driveway Installation
New driveways in resin, tarmac, block paving, gravel or concrete, built on a proper base with drainage planned in.
Resin Bound Driveways
Stone and resin trowelled into a smooth, porous surface that drains naturally and looks sharp for years.
Block Paving Driveways
Patterned concrete or clay blocks on a compacted base. Smart, strong and repairable block by block.
Tarmac Driveways
A durable, good-value surface laid on a compacted base with proper edging and falls for drainage.
Driveway Materials Compared: FAQs
Which driveway lasts longest?
A well-built driveway in any material can last many years. Base preparation matters as much as the surface. Stone, concrete and block paving have long lives when laid properly.
Which is cheapest?
Gravel and tarmac are usually among the lower-cost options, while stone and porcelain cost most. We give a free written quote for the option you choose.
Which is best for drainage?
Resin-bound on a permeable base, permeable block paving and gravel all let water through. See permeable paving.
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