COMPLETE PROJECT ESTIMATOR

Driveway Project Estimator UK

A complete driveway project requires 100-150mm sub-base, a laying course (sand or screed), and the surface finish (resin, pavers, or gravel). Under 2026 UK standards, it factors in 20% sub-base compaction and muck-away volume for the initial excavation. Use this for a total material and waste management estimate.

Driveway Dimensions & Specs

Foundation Layers

100mm (Light) 150mm (Standard) 250mm (Commercial)
20mm 40mm (Standard) 60mm

Master Shopping List

Total Driveway Area: 0 m²
Estimated Total Project Cost: £0
(Based on UK trade averages for MOT, Sand, and Concrete Block Pavers)
🔍Spotted an error? Tell us here

Adjust Individual Materials

Block Paving Calculator Sub-Base Calculator Sand & Aggregate Calculator

How to Build a Professional Driveway

A driveway is more than just a surface; it's a multi-layered structure designed to support the weight of vehicles without sinking or shifting. Our Driveway Project Estimator breaks down the essential layers required for both traditional block paving and modern resin-bound surfaces.

1. The Foundation: Excavation & Muck-Away

Before any material is laid, the ground must be excavated to the correct depth (typically 200mm-250mm). This requires removing significant amounts of soil and waste, which bulks up by 30% when dug out. Our estimator factors in this "muck-away" volume and suggests the number of grab lorries or skips needed.

2. The Sub-Base (MOT Type 1 or Type 3)

The sub-base is the most critical structural layer. For a traditional driveway, you need a minimum depth of 150mm of compacted MOT Type 1. For Resin-Bound surfaces, professionals use MOT Type 3 (Reduced Fines) to ensure the structure remains permeable for SUDs compliance. All sub-bases must be compacted in 50mm layers using a heavy-duty vibrating plate.

Path A: Traditional Block Paving

3. The Bedding Layer (Sharp Sand)

A 40mm layer of grit sand (sharp sand) is laid over the compacted sub-base. This layer is "screeded" to a perfectly flat level. Driveway blocks are usually laid on a dry sand bed, allowing for slight flexibility under heavy loads.

4. Jointing (Kiln-Dried Sand)

Once the blocks are laid and compacted, kiln-dried sand is brushed into the joints. This sand creates the friction required to lock the entire driveway together as one solid unit.

Path B: Resin Bound (Permeable)

3. The Base Course (Open-Graded Bitmac)

Resin-bound surfaces require a solid, stable base. Professionals typically use 70mm of Open-Graded Bitmac (asphalt). This "open-graded" structure is crucial as it allows water to drain through, making the entire driveway SUDs compliant.

4. The Resin Bound Surface

The top 18mm layer consists of high-quality polyurethane resin mixed with decorative aggregates. This mix is trowelled smooth to create a seamless, permeable surface that is resistant to weeds and frost damage.

🏛️

UK Building Regulations: Driveways & SUDS

New driveways are subject to strict drainage laws to prevent urban flooding. Understanding these rules can save you from costly remedial work:

  • The 5m² Rule (SUDS): If your new driveway covers more than 5 square metres, you generally don't need planning permission only if the surface is permeable (like gravel or resin) or if the water drains to a lawn or border within your property.
  • Non-Permeable Surfaces: If you use non-permeable material (like standard bitmac or paving) and the water drains onto the public highway, you must apply for planning permission.
  • Drop Curbs: To legally drive across a pavement to your driveway, you must have a "dropped curb". You must apply to your local council for this; you cannot do it yourself.
  • Safety & Visibility: If you live on a busy road or near a junction, additional highway safety visibility checks may be required.
View official Planning Portal guidance →

Frequently Asked Questions

How much MOT Type 1 or Type 3 do I need for a driveway?

For a standard UK driveway, a compacted depth of 150mm is recommended. Our calculator specifies MOT Type 1 for traditional block paving and MOT Type 3 for resin-bound surfaces to ensure proper drainage and stability.

What is the best sub-base for a block paved driveway?

MOT Type 1 is the industry standard for driveway sub-bases in the UK. It is a crushed aggregate that compacts into a solid, load-bearing layer.

How many block pavers are needed per square metre?

Standard UK block pavers (200x100mm) require exactly 50 blocks per square metre. Large format blocks or irregular sizes will vary.

What is the difference between Resin Bound and Resin Bonded?

Resin Bound is a mix of resin and stone trowelled onto a base, creating a smooth, permeable surface. Resin Bonded is where resin is spread on a base and stone is scattered on top, creating a non-permeable, textured surface that can lose stones over time.

Is a resin driveway SUDs compliant?

Yes, provided it is installed on a permeable sub-base (like Open-Graded Bitmac), a resin-bound driveway allows water to drain into the ground, meeting UK SUDs regulations without needing planning permission for drainage.

Should I use Sharp Sand or Building Sand for the bedding?

Always use Sharp Sand (also called Grit Sand) for the bedding layer of a block paved driveway. Building sand is too fine and stays soft when wet, which can cause the driveway to sink over time.

What is the best base course for a resin-bound driveway?

For a professional, permeable resin-bound driveway, a 70mm layer of Open-Graded Bitmac is the standard base course. This provides the structural depth needed while allowing water to pass through to the sub-base.

Why is MOT Type 3 used for resin driveways instead of Type 1?

MOT Type 3 is a "reduced fines" aggregate. Unlike Type 1, which contains dust that can clog drainage, Type 3 is designed to be fully permeable. This is essential for a Sustainable Urban Drainage (SUDs) compliant resin-bound project.