Building a council house driveway is a big investment, so it’s essential to understand the costs. After all, it will require a significant part of your home budget, so you must consider all expenses step-by-step.

Of course, every expense depends on certain things, like your personal expectations and wishes.

What factors affect a house’s driveway costs?

Driveway Choice is one of the driveway contractors in London who have put together a cost guide, and a key takeaway is the bigger the driveway, the bigger the costs!

Also, the driveway companies must evaluate the current condition of your driveway. Are you building a driveway from the start, or do you already have a neglected driveway that requires serious repairs? After contractors estimate everything, they will know how much money everything will cost.

Several factors are affecting the cost of the driveway, but these are the most essential:

Materials for the driveway

Each material has its price and its charging per square meter. Some of them are more expensive, but you’ll get the guarantee that your driveway won’t need additional repair in just a few years. These are the average prices of materials:

• Asphalt – £100 per m²
• Concrete driveway – £100 per m²
• Brick paving – £125 m²
• Concrete blocks – £25 – £70 per m² 
• Clay blocks – £72 – £110 per m² 
• Natural stone blocks – £55 – £120 per m²

Drainage

Do not even think of building a driveway without drainage if you want your driveway to be long-lasting. Some people try to save some money by skipping this part, but that’s a mistake that will cost them in the future. Without drainage, the rain and snow are going to destroy your driveway in just a couple of months.

The contractor needs a soakaway and a few items more to install the drainage, and the price can range from £60 to £175 per linear meter.

Additional requirements

Except for material and drainage, you might have additional requirements for contractors, when you wish to build or reconstruct your council house driveway. Of course, everything will cost extra.

You want your driveway to have heat, so you don’t have to shovel the snow during the winter. There are several types of heating driveway systems, and the price of the material ranges between £10 and £20 per square foot.

Another addition that users like to add is LED light on their driveway. It’s not just useful, but it’s giving your driveway elegant touch, and the investment is not so expensive. There are thousands of types and brands of LED lights, but you can find suitable ones starting at £5. Customers usually take LED lights by package, so the seller often gives a discount for a larger amount. The more LED lights you buy, the lower price you’ll get. And since LED light use the Sun energy, it’s eco-friendly and you won’t be spending the electricity, but you will still get light on your driveway and a nice night decoration on your property. So consider this an affordable and useful investment.

Any additional demand about design that you have for your driveway contractor also charges extra.

Contractor’s work

Except for material, contractors will charge their work, which usually includes additional expenses like insurance, transportation cost, taxes, meals for workers, etc. 

The prices are different, depending on the contractor’s years of experience and reputation, as well as the location. The prices of contractors in big cities like London are more expensive than in small towns. Overall, you can expect driveway installers to charge you £155 to £220 per day.

Once you make a deal with the right contractors, they will estimate the amount of material, supplies, and cost of their work, and give you the final price for your driveway. You will get the invoice, with every item’s price separate so you will know the exact costs.

As you can see, building up the council house driveway is not cheap, but do not look at it as an expense. Look at it like a great investment. After all, the driveway is the first thing someone sees when they enter your property, and it can give a good impression of the people who live there.

If you have decided to build the driveway on your property, then you probably have a lot on your mind, especially if you don’t have any experience with similar projects. In that case, be aware that choosing the right material for your driveway is the most important thing.

The material needs to be strong enough to withstand weather conditions and serve you for many years, but it would also be good if there is a possibility to save some money on the way, too. So consider some of these five most popular materials for your driveway, analyze their advantages and disadvantages, and make the best possible decision before starting to work on a project.

1. Asphalt

Asphalt is one of the most popular driveway materials due to its affordability and durability. It is made of a mixture of sand, aggregate, and asphalt cement, making it resistant to harsh weather conditions and heavy traffic. Asphalt is relatively easy to install, repair, and maintain, making it a cost-effective option. However, it is prone to cracking and requires periodic sealing to maintain its longevity.

Advantages:

• Affordability
• Durability
• Easy to install and maintain
• Resistant to harsh weather conditions and heavy traffic

Disadvantages:

• Prone to cracking
• Requires periodic sealing

2. Concrete 

Another popular driveway material is concrete since it’s durable and doesn’t need a lot of maintenance. It’s customizable too, and it can be colored and stamped to match your home’s exterior. This popular driveway material is made of a mixture of cement, sand, and water, making it resistant to heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions, just like asphalt. But you must be aware that this material is relatively expensive and prone to cracking, especially in extreme temperatures.

Advantages:

• Durability
• Low maintenance
• Resistant to heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions
• Customizable

Disadvantages:

• Relatively expensive
• Prone to cracking

3. Pavers 

If you are looking for an elegant and versatile driveway material that can add a touch of sophistication to your home’s exterior, then pavers are the best choice for you. They come in a wide range of colours, shapes, and sizes, allowing you to create unique patterns and designs. Pavers are also durable and easy to maintain, as they can be replaced individually if damaged. They have a few flaws as well, as pavers require professional installation and they are not so cheap.

Advantages:

• Elegant and versatile
• Wide range of colours, shapes, and sizes
• Durable and easy to maintain
• Can be replaced individually if damaged

Disadvantages:

• Relatively expensive
• Requires professional installation

4. Gravel 

A simple and affordable driveway material that adds a rustic charm to your home’s exterior. It’s specific because it’s made of crushed rock and is available in various sizes and colours. Gravel is also easy to install, and it allows water to seep through, preventing runoff and erosion. On the other hand, it is prone to shifting and requires periodic maintenance to prevent potholes and ruts.

Advantages:

• Simple and affordable
• Adds a rustic charm to your home’s exterior
• Easy to install
• Allows water to seep through, preventing runoff and erosion

Disadvantages:

• Prone to shifting
• Requires periodic maintenance to prevent potholes and ruts

5. Crushed Stone 

This is a durable and natural driveway material that can add a unique texture to your property. The positive side of this option for driveway materials is that it’s made of various sizes of stone and is available in different colours. It is resistant to heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions, and you can install it easily. The negative side of crushed stone is that it’s relatively expensive and can be difficult to walk or drive on due to its uneven surface.

Advantages:

• Durable and natural
• Adds a unique texture to your home’s exterior
• Easy to install
• Resistant to heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions

Disadvantages:

• Relatively expensive
• An uneven surface can be difficult to walk or drive on

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect driveway material depends on your personal preference, budget, and location. As you can see, each material has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, durability, maintenance, and environment. Choose something that you can easily maintain and that fits your budget. 

You also want your driveway to look nice, since it’s the first thing people notice when they come to your property. It’s always a plus to leave a good impression.

For some people, the driveway is often just a functional space to park the car. However, driveways are a crucial element of your property, and they play a significant role in enhancing the overall aesthetics of your house.

With the latest advancements in driveway design and construction, driveway contractors are using innovative techniques and materials to create eco-friendly, visually appealing, and long-lasting driveways. So, let’s explore some of the latest trends in driveway design ideas for your house.

1. Permeable Pavers

Permeable pavers are a popular choice for eco-conscious homeowners who want to reduce the impact of their driveways on the environment. These pavers are designed to allow rainwater to seep through the surface and into the ground, which helps to reduce runoff and prevent erosion. Permeable pavers are made from a variety of materials, including concrete, clay, and natural stone, and they come in a range of shapes, sizes, and colours.

2. Heated Driveways

In colder regions, heated driveways are gaining popularity among homeowners who want to avoid the hassle of shovelling snow in the winter. Heated driveways are designed to melt snow and ice, making them safe and convenient to use even during winter. These driveways use a variety of heating systems, including electric and hydronic, to keep the surface warm and dry. Yes, these driveways will cost you more since they are a bit more complex.

3. Decorative Concrete

Decorative concrete is a versatile material that can be used to create a wide range of driveway designs. Contractors can use decorative concrete to mimic the look of natural stone, brick, or tile, or they can create unique patterns and designs that are customized to your preferences. Decorative concrete driveways are also durable, easy to maintain, and can withstand heavy traffic and harsh weather conditions.

4. Geometric Shaped Driveways

Geometric-shaped driveways are a contemporary and unique design option that can add a stylish flair to your home’s exterior. Rather than the traditional straight or curved driveway, geometric driveways feature sharp angles, intricate patterns, and asymmetrical shapes. These driveways can be designed using a variety of materials, including concrete, pavers, or even gravel. They can also be customized to suit your preferences, with various colour options and patterns available. Geometric-shaped driveways can be a bold statement piece for your home’s exterior, creating a striking first impression for guests and adding a touch of modern elegance to your property.

5. Stained Concrete

Stained concrete is another innovative driveway design that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. This technique involves applying a stain or dye to the surface of the concrete, which creates a beautiful, marbled effect. Stained concrete driveways come in a range of colors and patterns, and they are resistant to fading, chipping, and peeling.

6. Green Driveways

Green driveways are another innovative option for eco-conscious homeowners. They are designed to incorporate plants, grass, or other vegetation into the surface, which helps to absorb rainwater and reduce runoff. Green driveways also provide a natural, attractive look that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Some green driveway options include permeable grass pavers, interlocking plantable blocks, or even a living driveway made of pre-planted vegetation mats. Green driveways not only benefit the environment but also provide a unique and aesthetically pleasing look to your home.

7. LED Lighted Driveways

LED lighted driveways are a creative and innovative way to enhance the look and functionality of your driveway. They use energy-efficient LED lights to illuminate the surface of the driveway and create a stunning visual effect. LED lights can be embedded into the driveway surface, creating a seamless look that blends with the surrounding landscape. They can also be installed along the edges or underneath the driveway to create a dramatic, eye-catching effect. LED lighted driveways not only enhance the safety and visibility of your driveway but also add a unique touch of style and sophistication to your home’s exterior.

Be aware that your driveway is exposed to various weather conditions, traffic, and other elements that can cause damage over time. Proper maintenance is crucial to maintain your driveway and prolong its lifespan. After all, you made a huge investment in it. You don’t want to build a new driveway in just a few years.

Don’t worry! We will share a few useful tips and tricks suggested by top driveway contractors on how to maintain different types of driveways. If you follow their suggestions, you will be sure that your driveway will serve you well for a long time. 

Asphalt Driveway Maintenance

Since it is durable and requires low maintenance, asphalt is one of the most popular materials for driveways. However, it is still prone to damage and requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition.

Here are some tips from top asphalt driveway contractors on how to maintain your driveway:

1. Clean your driveway regularly to remove debris, dirt, and oil stains. Use a broom or leaf blower to remove leaves and debris, and a power washer or garden hose to remove stains.
2. Seal your driveway every 2-3 years to protect it from water damage and UV rays. The sealant will also prevent cracks and potholes from forming. Hire the right professional contractor to apply the sealant for the best results.
3. When cracks and potholes appear, repair them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Use a crack filler or patching compound to fill the gaps, and then smooth it out with a trowel. For larger repairs, hire a professional contractor to ensure proper installation.
4. Keep heavy vehicles and equipment off your driveway to prevent damage. Asphalt is strong, but it can still crack under the weight of heavy objects.

Concrete Driveway Maintenance

Concrete is another popular material for driveways, not just for its durability but also because of aesthetic appeal. It is also prone to cracking and staining. But don’t worry, it may not be the grandest driveway design but with regular maintenance, it can stay in good condition for decades.

Concrete driveway contractors advise you to do these four important steps to save your concentrated driveway:

1. Avoid using de-icing salts on your driveway in the winter. These salts can damage the surface of the concrete and cause cracks. Use sand or kitty litter instead to provide traction.
2. From time to time, you must clean the driveway. First, clean debris and leaves with a broom or a leaf blower, and then wash it with water, by using a garden hose. It will remove stains from your driveway.
3. Just like with asphalt, you must seal your driveway every 2-3 years, to prevent stains and cracks. It would be best to hire a professional contractor to finish this task. If you seal your driveway in the right way, it would be protected from further damage and UV rays.
4. As soon as you notice some potholes or cracks, reappear them. You can use a patching compound or crack filler and smooth it out with a trowel. Of course, you can always hire a contractor to fix these flaws on your driveway, especially if the driveway requires larger repairs.

Paver Driveway Maintenance

Pavers are a beautiful and durable option for driveways, but they require more maintenance than asphalt or concrete hence the cost of this driveway will be on the upper end.

Here are some tips from top paver contractors on how to maintain your driveway:

1. Address any drainage issues promptly to prevent water damage to your driveway. Make sure your driveway has proper drainage and fix any issues immediately.
2. Repair any damaged or loose pavers as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Remove the damaged paver and replace it with a new one.
3. Just like any other, the Paver driveway also needs regular cleaning. Once a week, remove the dirt from the driveway with a broom, and then wash it with water using a garden hose or power washer. 
4. Protect the driveway from UV rays and water damage, by applying a sealant once every 2-3 years. 

The driveway is the first thing visitors see after they step on your property and the main impression they get about you and your home, so you want to choose a professional team to build the driveway.

The driveway not only needs to look good, but it must be functional and built from quality materials so it can serve you for many years.

But how to choose the right contractor, someone you can trust for such an important task as building your driveway? Here is a step-by-step guide that will help you make the right choice.

Step 1: Do Your Research

Open your internet browser, take a piece of paper and pen, and start your research. Make a list of potential contractors and do some extra background research on them. Check their websites, social media pages, and customer reviews to learn more about their experience, reputation, and the quality of their work.

If you have friends or relatives who recently built the driveway of their home, call them and ask were they satisfied with the contractor. It would be great if you can see the contractor’s work live. That’s the best way you can be 100% sure of the quality of their work.

Step 2: Obtain Quotes and Compare Prices

Once you have narrowed your list of potential contractors, it’s time to obtain quotes and compare prices. Ask each contractor to provide you with a detailed estimate that includes the cost of materials, labor, and any additional fees or taxes. Make sure you understand the scope of the work and the timeline for completion. Compare the quotes and choose a contractor who offers a fair price and can deliver the quality of work you need.

And remember – the cheapest solution isn’t always the best one.

Step 3: Consider the Types of Materials

The types of materials used for your driveway can affect its durability, appearance, and maintenance requirements. Some common materials used for driveways include concrete, asphalt, pavers, and gravel. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose a contractor who can provide you with different options and help you make an informed decision based on your needs and budget.

We know that you probably want to save every penny, but the driveway must withstand weather conditions and the ravages of time. So you need strong and quality materials. Low-quality materials are certainly cheaper, but in that case, the driveway will need reparation in just a few years, and it will cost more money.

Step 4: Talk to the Contractor Face-to-Face

You’ll never really know who the persons you trusting your driveway are, until you talk to them in person. If the contractor claims that he or she doesn’t have the time to meet you, you should at least insist on a video call.

Before you meet the contractor, make a list of questions that you will ask them. A true and experienced professional will give you answers clearly, without any confusion and “too much philosophy.”

Also, professional contractors often have suggestions on their own. They will give you a couple of useful pieces of advice on building your driveway.

Step 5: Avoid Common Pitfalls

Choosing the wrong driveway contractor can lead to several problems, such as delays, cost overruns, and poor workmanship. To avoid these common pitfalls, make sure you choose a contractor who is licensed and insured, has a good reputation, and provides you with a written contract. Do not make a decision based solely on price, as a low bid may indicate a lack of experience or the use of substandard materials.

Step 6: Review the Contract

Before signing a contract with a driveway contractor, make sure you review it carefully. The contract should include all the details of the project, such as the materials to be used, the timeline for completion, the payment schedule, and the warranties or guarantees provided by the contractor. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions before signing the contract.

Conclusion

Do not rush! Choosing the right driveway contractor for your house requires careful research, consideration of various factors, and attention to detail.

By following these steps, you can find a contractor who can help you create a beautiful and functional driveway that will enhance your property’s value and curb appeal for many years to come.

Hiring a qualified and reliable builder is crucial for you to achieve the desired design for your dream home. With the rapid growth of the construction industry, you will certainly encounter all calibers of builders including cowboy builders. Therefore, it’s upon you to be extra careful and diligent when choosing the right person to work with.

From looking at reviews from previous clients, previously handled projects, to their qualifications and certifications, there are several things that you’ll need to consider before making a final decision. Choosing the wrong would ultimately cost you dearly and even lead to a depreciation in the overall value of the property.

Tips for choosing residential refurbishment contractors

For every construction project, hiring a qualified and reliable builder is one way to ensure that you achieve your dream home design. Refurbishment projects tend to be more easier and cost-effective compared to new projects. However, if you still want your project to be successful, you’ll need to hire a professional building contractor. A good builder should exhibit architectural respect, creativity, and craftsmanship to meet and even exceed your expectations. Highlighted below are some tips for choosing a qualified residential refurbishment contractor.

• Seeking recommendations from friends and family
• Check reviews from previous clients
• Check contractor’s area of specialisation
• Request to see any legal documentations and certifications
• Go through their portfolio
• Check years of experience
• Ensure adherence of building regulations

Seek recommendations from friends and family

Seeking recommendations from your friends, neighbours or even family is one way to get a legit builder for your refurbishment. You will also be having an idea of what they can deliver thus making it easier to determine if they’re a perfect fit for your project.

Check reviews from previous clients

Aside from giving you a glimpse of the builders work quality, you also get more insight on the type of relation the builder has with the clients. Some builders are poor in developing a good relationship with their customers thus making it hard to work together. To avoid choosing a person that you can’t work with it’s advisable to establish how they relate with their clients.

Check the contractor’s area of specialisation

Does the builder specialise in projects of a specific nature or not? It is common to find that some builders only specialise in handling certain projects like new builds, renovations, loft conversions or refurbishments. Knowing their area of specialisation will help you choose someone who can effectively handle your refurbishment project. Some may even do extra services like clearance and removing all the rubbish.

Request to see any legal documentation and certifications

This will help you clarify whether you’re about to hire a legitimate builder or a con. You will be able to verify whether the builder is what they say they are. Also, you can check if they are registered with any associations or trade bodies. The company should also indicate their physical location in their adress.

Go through their portfolio

Going through a builder’s portfolio is one way to look at some of their masterpieces. This way, you will have in mind the designs to expect in case you decide to hire the said builder.

Check years of experience

The more the years of experience, the more the level of expertise. If the company has been in business for several years, then this can only mean the builder has gained more knowledge, skills , and craftsmanship to successfully complete the refurbishment project.

Ensure adherence to building regulations

You should hire a contractor that fully adheres to the building regulations and rules. This will help you avoid coming across any trouble with the local authorities. This also means that the house will be constructed in line with all of the health and safety regulations. Whether it’s a simple office fit-out or a simple repair job, it’s important to ensure adherence to these regulations.

From this article, it’s evident that there are plenty of considerations when it comes to choosing the right builder. However, if you’re diligent and careful enough, then it will be easier for you to choose a competent builder who can deliver your refurbishment desires. Having a clear vision of the design that you want will also be essential in determining a suitable builder for the project.