Concrete Driveway Cost in 2026
A concrete driveway runs £5–£15+ per square metre installed. Here’s the price by size and finish, and how it stacks up against asphalt and pavers.
Updated July 10, 2026 · 6 min read
A concrete driveway is a decades-long investment that shapes your home’s curb appeal. The price depends on size, thickness, finish, and site prep — and a cheap job that skips the base or reinforcement will crack within a few winters.
Here’s what a concrete driveway costs in 2026 and how to get one that lasts.
2026 cost by finish
Concrete is priced per square metre installed; the finish drives much of the range:
- Standard broom-finish concrete: £5–£10 / sq ft.
- Stamped or stained decorative concrete: £10–£20 / sq ft.
- Exposed aggregate: £10–£15 / sq ft.
- Typical 2-car driveway (600 sq ft): £4,100–£8,100 standard; more for decorative.
What drives the price
Beyond finish, these move the number:
- Thickness and reinforcement — 4" is standard; 5–6" with rebar/mesh for heavy vehicles.
- Site prep — grading, removing an old driveway, and building a proper gravel base.
- Drainage and slope — needed to keep water from pooling and cracking the slab.
- Access and region — hard-to-reach sites and local labour rates.
Concrete vs. asphalt vs. pavers
A quick comparison to set expectations:
- Concrete: higher upfront, low maintenance, 25–40 year life, many finishes.
- Asphalt: cheaper upfront (£5–£5 / sq ft), needs periodic sealing, ~15–20 year life, best in cold climates.
- Pavers: highest upfront, easiest to repair (lift and replace), premium look.
What’s different in the UK
Prices on this page are in pounds sterling and reflect typical national ranges; where you are matters a lot. London and the South East run well above the national average, while much of the North, Wales and Scotland sit below it. Most quotes you receive from a tradesman will either include VAT at 20% or state that it’s added on top — always check which, as it’s a big line on larger jobs.
Larger work usually needs Building Regulations approval and sometimes planning permission, especially for extensions, structural changes or anything to a listed building or in a conservation area. Notifiable electrical and gas work must be done by a registered competent person — a Part P–registered electrician and a Gas Safe registered engineer respectively — so factor certification into the cost.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a concrete driveway last?
A properly installed and maintained concrete driveway lasts 25–40 years. A solid base, correct thickness, reinforcement, control joints, and good drainage are what get you there.
Why do driveways crack?
Some hairline cracking is normal as concrete cures. Bigger cracks usually trace to a poor base, no reinforcement, missing control joints, or drainage problems — reasons to hire carefully.
How long before I can drive on it?
You can usually walk on it in 24–48 hours, but wait about 7 days before driving a car on new concrete and up to 28 days for full cured strength before heavy vehicles.
Should I seal my concrete driveway?
Sealing every few years helps resist stains, water and freeze-thaw damage, extending the driveway’s life — especially in cold climates where de-icing salts are used.
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