Your Complete Guide to Gravel Driveway Cost

Gravel driveways are an excellent choice for homeowners due to their affordability, durability, and rustic charm. However, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of the expenses involved before making a decision. 

Our comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about gravel driveway costs in the UK, including materials, installation, maintenance, and more. Thus, you can estimate the cost accurately and confidently budget for your project.

Whether you desire a rustic aesthetic or a budget-friendly option, a gravel driveway is the perfect fit. With our guide, you can create a beautiful and functional driveway without breaking the bank.

Planning and budgeting for your driveway installation project can be overwhelming, but we're here to help make it easy for you. 

We'll not only assist you in planning and budgeting effectively, but we'll also help you find the most reliable driveway installer in your area without wasting any unnecessary time and help you to reduce your gravel driveway cost.

At Household Quotes, we understand the value of your time and money, which is why we offer four free quotes from trusted local driveway installers. 

Our 30-second form is quick and easy to fill out, and we'll ensure you receive tailored service that fits your budget and needs. Don't wait any longer—contact us today and let us help you with your driveway installation project.

In the UK, a gravel driveway costs around £2,500 for a standard 2 car driveway of 40m2. Gravel is the most economical option compared to tarmac, asphalt, or concrete. 

Unlike tarmac, asphalt, or concrete, gravel is a naturally sourced material, which reduces its overall cost. Its abundant supply and quickly produced materials make it one of the most budget-friendly driveways in the UK.

It is important to note that driveway sizes vary, and the costs of gravel driveways depend on the square footage. Here is an average cost table for different driveway sizes.

Additionally, the cost of a gravel driveway is cheaper than other materials due to its easy installation. On average, it will take around one to two days to install, according to MyJobQuote, which significantly reduces labour costs. 

Beyond the driveway cost, gravel boasts practical benefits such as excellent drainage, which reduces the risk of flooding and erosion. Its ease of installation and maintenance further solidifies its status as a top-choice driveway material. 

Ultimately, gravel's blend of affordability, functionality, and adaptability renders it a premier option for those seeking a budget-friendly, durable, and visually appealing driveway surface.

The cost of a gravel driveway in the UK for materials is between £35 and £55 per m2. The cost of driveway materials depends on the type, quality, thickness, location, and supply and demand. Knowing these factors is essential to budgeting effectively for your gravel driveway cost.

Several materials are available when creating a gravel driveway. Whether planning to install it yourself or simply budgeting for it, it is essential to estimate the material costs.

The table below lists the current costs of gravel materials offered by suppliers in the UK. Please note that these costs are subject to change over time. The prices are given per tonne, which is the standard weight suppliers use for gravel.

Crushed rock gravel is the cheapest driveway material in the UK. It is created by breaking down rocks in quarries using heavy machinery, resulting in an angular, jagged shape that makes it one of the most durable and long-lasting gravel materials available.

While crushed gravel may not be as visually appealing as marble chips or pea gravel, it is still an excellent  long-term investment. While more expensive gravel materials, such as marble chips, may create a beautiful entryway to your home, they are less durable and can crack under the weight of heavy traffic.

When planning a new driveway, it is crucial to consider the materials and their benefits. While initial costs are essential, long-term maintenance and repairs are equally vital.

Labour costs for gravel driveways are another significant factor when budgeting. It accounts for about 75% of a gravel driveway cost in the UK, according to Price Your Job, which is why it is one of the most important factors to consider when budgeting for a gravel driveway.

Driveway specialists can charge £150 to £200 per person per day. The complexity of the installation process, as well as the local labour rates and experience, can influence the overall labour costs. 

Understanding how to lay a gravel driveway will further increase your ability to estimate the cost of a gravel driveway. Below, we have provided the steps involved in a gravel driveway:

The entire process should take one to two days to complete. Labour costs will increase depending on the size of your driveway. We have provided an estimate of labour costs per average driveway size.

Labour costs can increase significantly if you already have a driveway in place. The cost of removing the driveway may vary depending on the material used. 

For instance, removing asphalt can cost between £400 and £700, depending on the size of the driveway, while removing gravel can cost between £150 and £250. However, removing concrete can be much more expensive, ranging from £500 to £1,500.

If you want to get an accurate estimate for the cost of a gravel driveway, it's recommended that you contact at least four driveway specialists. You can compare and choose the best prices for your budget by getting multiple quotes.

But let's face it: Comparing quotes is a tedious and time-consuming process that can take hours of research and still leave you wondering if you've made the right choice. Thankfully, there's a solution. 

Household Quotes can save you time and hassle by doing the hard work for you. With just a 30-second form, we'll provide four free non-binding quotes from trusted local driveway specialists, so you can rest easy knowing you've got the best deal.

Driveway gravel costs are influenced by several factors. Understanding the factors affecting gravel driveways' cost, beyond labour and material costs, is crucial for effective planning and budgeting. These factors include:

Ensuring that your gravel driveway has edging is essential for maintaining its shape and structural integrity. In addition to being a decorative feature, edging also supports the driveway. According to My Job Quote, the average cost per linear metre for edging a gravel driveway ranges from £150 to £200.

Installing a driveway gate can enhance the overall value of your property and provide an additional layer of security. On average, the cost for a manual driveway gate is around £750, which includes the installation charges. However, if you wish to install an electric gate, the costs will be significantly higher, estimated at around £5,550 according to Price Your Job.

If you are considering laying a gravel driveway yourself, you could save up to £1,000 on the overall gravel driveway cost. However, it's crucial to understand how to properly install a gravel driveway and the potential costs of doing it poorly. 

Improper installation can cause your driveway to sink and form potholes, increasing future repair costs. If you decide to DIY your gravel driveway, there are several cost factors you should consider.

To effectively plan and budget for a gravel driveway project, it's essential to understand the additional costs besides the material. These include equipment rental, delivery fees, and labour costs. Knowing these expenses helps you make informed decisions, prioritise based on budget, and help reduce your gravel driveway cost.

It also helps obtain accurate quotes from contractors and negotiate more effectively. Understanding the full scope of expenses ensures the project stays within budget and meets desired specifications.

Obtaining multiple quotes is crucial when looking for the best prices for a gravel driveway. Firstly, comparing quotes gives you access to a range of available costs, which can ensure that you get the best deal. By obtaining multiple quotes, you can identify any outliers in pricing and avoid overpaying for materials or labour.

Secondly, comparing quotes on gravel driveway costs enables you to evaluate the scope of work included in each proposal. Different contractors may have varying services or materials in their quotes, making it essential to compare these details to ensure all necessary components are covered. Additionally, comparing quotes allows you to access the reputations and reliability of different contractors.

Reviewing past customer experiences and references, you can choose a contractor with a proven track record of quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.

Comparing quotes for gravel driveways empowers you to make informed decisions, secure competitive pricing, and ultimately, achieve the best possible outcome for your gravel driveway.

However, this process can be time-consuming and frustrating, involving numerous phone calls, emails, and negotiations. By filling out HouseHold Quotes' 30-second form, you can streamline this process and receive four free quotes from trusted contractors without the hassle.

This saves time and effort and ensures that you have a range of options to choose from, allowing you to make a well-informed decision that best fits your needs and budget. Using Household Quotes is guaranteed to reduce your new gravel driveway cost.

With four free quotes, you can confidently move forward with your project, knowing you've explored all available options and secured the best deal possible. Get started by clicking below!