A practical side-by-side comparison using live configured estimator rates and surface-specific considerations.
Block paving or Tarmac?
Both can produce a good driveway when the specification, ground preparation and drainage are appropriate. Compare the complete construction and the installer quotation rather than selecting a surface from appearance or a square-metre rate alone.
| Consideration | Block paving | Tarmac |
|---|---|---|
| Configured estimator guide rate | £70/m² configured guide rate | £45/m² configured guide rate |
| Routine maintenance | Regular sweeping and occasional joint maintenance | Generally simple routine care |
| Local repair | Individual units can usually be lifted and replaced | Patches are possible but may remain visually obvious |
| Drainage approach | Standard and permeable systems are available | Usually relies on designed falls and drainage details unless a specialist permeable system is specified |
| Design character | Strong pattern, colour and border flexibility | Simple, practical finish well suited to larger areas |
The guide-rate comparison uses the current rates configured in the My New Driveway estimator. It is not a quote and does not include every preparation, drainage, access or local-cost variable.
Strong pattern, colour and border flexibility fits the property and the proposed construction suits the site.
Read the Block paving guide →Simple, practical finish well suited to larger areas fits the property and the proposed construction suits the site.
Read the Tarmac guide →Price both options around the same driveway
Run the indicative estimator with your real area, access and preparation details, then compare formal installer specifications on the same basis.
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