Tarmac vs Block paving drive

Hazel2705

We have decided to do our drive and will be doing all groundwork ourselves so will all be prepared and will just need to get someone in to lay the tarmac only. If we block pave we lay that ourselves.


Which will last longer as we aren't planning on moving for at least 20 years? Which will be cheaper per sq metre?

NJBSaver

Tarmac is going to be cheaper then block paving, even with you undertaking the labour on the block paving.

Both should stand the test of time if done correctly. Suitable bedding for the block paving and thickness of the tarmacadam will be vital if you don’t want them doing again.

Ebe_Scrooge

I'd agree with the above. Tarmac will be cheaper, personally I'd be tempted to go for the block paving if you're looking long-term. If you do it yourself you know it's been done right !

The other thing I like about block paving, it's relatively easy to remove a few blocks and replace them in the future - if they get damaged, stained, or if you need to dig underneath part of the drive to get at drains or water pipes or whatever.

Tarmac *should* last well if done properly, but so often it's not done right and sinks or cracks.

unluckychappie

Bricks are relatively high maintenance, regular pressure cleaning, well two or three times a year, and weeding between gaps. They can look better and rain can soak away without causing flooding or ponding. Had both, if wanting low maintenance over the years go for tarmac - very easy to repair with cold mix black top. If house proud go for the bricks.

socks_uk

Just wanted to question as to whether I had heard that planning permission is now required (in certain areas) if you want to do a project like this. It might be for just front gardens but I thought it was driveways too. I think it was a change after all the floods in certain areas.


Found the information on the net and I think you will need planning permission.

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/pavingfrontgarden/

DirectDebacle

Preparation, whichever surface you chose, is the key to longevity. As you are doing this yourself this site may be useful:

http://www.pavingexpert.com/blockdtl.htm

Avoid cold lay tarmac like the plague. It will not withstand vehicular traffic for long. I fully endorse the points made at #3.

planning_officer

socks_uk wrote: »

Just wanted to question as to whether I had heard that planning permission is now required (in certain areas) if you want to do a project like this.

Yes, if the replacement drive is located between the house and the road (which is probably stating the obvious for most driveways!) then it requires planning permission from the Council unless, either (a) it is constructed from a porous or permeable surface; or, (b) it is not porous or permeable, but drains naturally to a porous area within the curtilage of the dwelling (i.e. a flower bed or lawn and not onto the road or pavement).