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Driveway Calculator

Surface, sub-base and drainage-aware driveway estimator.

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Inputs
Got a bay window or conservatory? Set it out in Setting Out & Levels → Bays & conservatories. It carves the bay footprint out of the paved area and adjusts the wall run, then hands the corrected figures back here.

15 advanced inputs hidden. Switch to Advanced to fine-tune.

Site context (optional)

Helps tailor algae, weather and longevity advice.

Confidencehigh· 91Complexitymedium· 34

Order what you need for this job

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Area
15m²
Perimeter m
16m
Blocks required
811
Coverage (with allowance)
16.2m²
Wastage applied
5%
Cuts allowance
3%
Total allowance
8%
Edge restraint length
16m
Edging units (600 mm)
27
Kiln-dried jointing sand
30kg
Screed (laying) sand
1.2t
Sub Base Depth mm
150mm
MOT Type 1 (theoretical)
5.91t
MOT Type 1 (order qty incl. 10%)
6.5t
MOT bulk bags (order)
8
Bedding Depth mm
50mm
Excavation depth
222mm
Excavation volume
3.33m³
Spoil volume (bulked)
4.33m³
Spoil tonnes
5.33t

Heads-up: Block paving lives or dies on its edge restraints — concrete-haunched kerbs or edging blocks on three sides minimum. Laid on a 30 mm sharp-sand bed over compacted MOT Type 1, with kiln-dried sand brushed and vibrated into the joints. Why it matters: For driveways use herringbone (45° or 90°) — it locks under wheel loads. Stretcher bond will rut under cars within a season.

Drainage & falls

Surface drainage is advised here — set a gentle fall away from the house and any structures.

Lay paving with falls of 1:80 (recommended) or 1:60 (minimum) away from buildings.

Why it matters: Smooth paving needs a positive fall to overcome surface tension and shed water before it ponds in low spots.

If ignored: Insufficient falls cause standing water, algae growth, freeze-thaw damage and water tracking back toward the building.

  • • Recommended falls: 1:80
  • • Edge restraints required
  • • Falls 1:80

Quantities pre-filled from your calculation (15.0 m²). Partner links — we may earn a small commission if you buy, at no cost to you.

Essentials for this job

Quantities include a ~10% waste allowance. Guide prices are indicative UK ranges (materials only, inc. VAT) — always confirm with the supplier before ordering.

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Ad · Some links are sponsored. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Suppliers are chosen for fit, not commission.

This app provides general UK guidance and material estimates only. It is not legal, planning, engineering or building-control advice. Always confirm requirements with your local planning authority, building control, utility providers, manufacturers or qualified professionals.