How Much Does a Tarmac Driveway Cost?

How Much Does a Tarmac Driveway Cost?

16 Apr 2022

Is it time for you to resurface your driveway? The addition of tarmac to your driveway will make it look better and last longer.

It’s no surprise that tarmac is a favourite choice among Brentwood residents because it’s long-lasting, low-maintenance, and attractive.

Restoration won’t be needed for at least 15 years if installed appropriately. But how much does a tarmac driveway cost on average?

Cost of a Tarmac Driveway

The cost to tarmac a driveway range from £40 to £70 per m2. It can take anything from two days to two weeks, based on the scale of the driveway and the intricacy of the project.

Aspects that Influence the Price of a Tarmac Driveway

As with any construction, several factors will influence the cost of your new tarmac driveway. These are some of the most crucial considerations for determining the price.

  1. Size of the Driveway

Since tarmac driveways are usually priced per square meter, larger driveways will take longer to complete and thus cost more.

Due to the cost-effectiveness of the materials, the price per square metre will decrease marginally. Asphalt will be more expensive per square metre for a smaller driveway, but labour and time costs will be lower.

  1. Accessibility

Your new tarmac driveway will become more difficult to access if it touches a public area, such as a footpath or grass verge.

Getting permission from the Highways Agency or the local council may be necessary if your driveway crosses over a public walkway. This can slow down the job and result in increased costs.

  1. Driveway Design

Since tarmac is applied in a liquid form, an irregularly shaped driveway will not increase the cost. However, for drainage concerns, the driveway must be somewhat slanted. That might make the design more challenging.

The driveway will also require edging to prevent it from shifting or cracking. More edging implies more cost; therefore, a more unusual shape will cost more.

  1. Costs of Drainage

When installing a tarmac driveway, ensure that the water drains away from the home. If there isn’t a suitable drainage system in place, the water may have to be diverted onto a public area, which will necessitate planning approval.

If you need to build a new soak away or channel, expect to pay an extra £500-£1,000 on top of the driveway expense.

  1. Location

London and the south of England have higher labour costs than the rest of the country. If the contractor is required to travel outside of a specific radius, they may charge an additional price.

Unless you reside in a remote area or wish to hire an expert from a different city, you may not have to pay extra.

Final Thoughts

It can be tempting to lay a tarmac driveway yourself due to the high labour prices. This is, however, not recommended and should be left to professionals. The installation of a tarmac driveway necessitates the use of specialised equipment that is costly to hire.