The Ultimate Guide to Driveways in the UK: Types, Materials & Choosing the Right Fit for Your Home

11 Apr 2025

Why Driveways Matter More Than You Think

A driveway is more than just somewhere to park your car, it’s the gateway to your home, a statement of style, and a big factor in curb appeal. Whether you’re laying a new driveway or replacing an old driveway, your choice of driveway material, design, and installer can make all the difference.

From block paving to resin driveways, tarmac, and gravel, each surface has its pros and cons. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best driveway solutions, the types of materials available, how to pick a reliable driveway contractor, and tips to create your dream driveway.

What Is a Driveway? (And Why It Impacts Property Value)

A driveway is a private access road leading to a residence or building. It might sound basic, but it’s one of the most influential exterior features of your home. A clean, well-designed paved driveway boosts resale value, improves drainage, and reduces long-term maintenance compared to patching up an existing driveway year after year.

Modern options even allow homeowners to combine landscaping, garden paths, or a garden room with the driveway for a seamless and stylish exterior layout.

Top Driveway Materials in the UK (And How to Choose)

Here are the most popular options used by driveway installers across Essex, North London, and East London:

Block Paving Driveway

A block paving driveway uses concrete or clay bricks arranged in eye-catching patterns. It’s a long-lasting and highly customisable option.

• Ideal for: Homes seeking a traditional yet polished look
• Benefits: Permeable options, easy repair, pattern variety
• Pairs well with: Garden paths, patios, sandstone, and paving slabs

Great for those wanting a perfect driveway with aesthetic flexibility.

Resin Bound Driveway

Resin driveways are growing in popularity due to their sleek finish and SuDS compliance. The mix of resin and stone aggregates creates a seamless and permeable surface.

• Ideal for: Modern homes with minimal maintenance needs
• Benefits: Smooth, weed-resistant, highly durable
• Related terms: Resin driveway, resin driveways, permeable driveway

A top pick for low-maintenance, stylish homes. Often seen on driveway paving projects by companies like Diamond Driveways.

Tarmac Driveway

Made from asphalt, a tarmac driveway is a budget-friendly and highly durable option that’s quick to install.

• Ideal for: Large or sloped driveways
• Benefits: Weather-resistant, low cost, durable
• Material: Asphalt (bitumen), often confused with concrete

Commonly used in both driveways and parking areas. Good for those upgrading from an old driveway with a tight budget.

Gravel Driveways

Also known as loose gravel driveways, these are simple to install and have a rustic aesthetic.

• Ideal for: Rural homes, cottages, or properties with long driveways
• Benefits: Excellent drainage, affordable, quick to lay
• Common Terms: Gravel, gravel driveway, gravel driveways

Needs occasional raking and weed control, but great as a DIY-friendly solution.

Concrete Driveway

Concrete driveways are hard-wearing and versatile, with options for smooth finishes or patterned surfaces using paving slabs or pattern imprinted concrete.

• Ideal for: Long-term durability, minimal maintenance
• Variations: Stamped concrete, coloured concrete
• Related terms: Concrete, concrete driveway, concrete driveways, slab

Best installed by experienced contractors with proper curing knowledge.

Driveway Installation: What to Expect

Whether you’re hiring Patios Ltd, Diamond Driveways, or another local driveway specialist, your driveway installation should follow a step-by-step process:

1. Site Survey: Assess slope, drainage, surface condition
2. Excavation: Remove existing driveway or turf
3. Sub-base Preparation: Crucial for strength and water management
4. Material Installation: From paving to tarmac or resin
5. Finishing Touches: Edging, sealing, and cleanup

Tip: Always hire certified driveway contractors or installers with a local portfolio.

What’s the Cost of a Driveway in the UK?

The cost depends on the material, area size, and ground condition:

Driveway Type	Approx. Cost per m²
Gravel Driveway	£30 – £60
Tarmac Driveway	£45 – £70
Block Paving	£60 – £100
Resin Bound Driveway	£70 – £120
Concrete Driveway	£80 – £130

Don’t forget to factor in extras like artificial grass, edging stones, or drainage channels.

Is Your Driveway SuDS-Compliant?

For new surfaces over 5m², UK law requires compliance with Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) to reduce flooding. Permeable driveways like resin bound, gravel, and certain block paving layouts naturally meet these regulations.

Installing paving slabs or concrete without proper drainage could require planning permission.

Driveway Maintenance Tips

• Block paving: Weed regularly and re-sand every few years
• Tarmac: Reseal every 3–5 years
• Resin: Occasional power washing
• Concrete: Seal and clean annually
• Gravel: Rake occasionally and top up as needed

Want low effort? Consider adding artificial grass or paving slabs around your driveway for clean edges and reduced upkeep.

Choosing the Right Driveway Installer

When selecting a driveway paver or installer, always:

• Check for insurance and certification
• View previous jobs in your area
• Ask about guarantees
• Read reviews and check local mentions (e.g., “Installed by Brian Dennehy” or “Trusted by homeowners across North London”)

Companies like Diamond Driveways or Patios Ltd have built a strong reputation by delivering high-quality driveway paving and landscaping work.

Combining Your Driveway with Landscaping Features

Why stop at the driveway? Add value and cohesion with:

• Garden paths using sandstone or paving slabs
• Patio areas for entertaining
• A garden room or shed base to complete the look

These extras not only enhance your property but also boost resale appeal.

Best Driveways for Homes in Essex, East London & Hertfordshire

In areas like Chelmsford, Romford, or Bishops Stortford, homeowners typically opt for:

• Block paving for traditional neighbourhoods

• Resin bound for modern or new builds

• Gravel in rural or large properties

• Tarmac for practical and budget-friendly installs

We’ve installed all types across:

• Basildon
• Billericay
• Bishops Stortford
• Brentwood
• Castle Point
• Chelmsford
• Cheshunt
• Chigwell
• Chingford
• Chipping Ongar
• Dagenham
• Dartford
• Enfield
• Epping
• Grays
• Harlow
• Hoddesdon
• Loughton
• Maldon
• Rayleigh
• Rochford
• Romford
• Sawbridgeworth
• Thurrock
• Upminster
• Waltham abbey
• Walthamstow
• Wanstead
• Westcliff-on-Sea
• Wickford
• Woodford Green

Conclusion: Create Your Dream Driveway with the Right Knowledge

Whether you’re in North London, Essex, or surrounding areas, understanding your options for driveways, materials, and installers helps you make an informed decision. From gravel driveways to resin-bound surfaces, there’s a solution for every home and budget.

If you’re ready to upgrade your exterior, contact us today for a custom quote and design ideas.