Concrete vs Block Paving vs Tarmac: Which Driveway Is Right For You?

The Quick Comparison Table

Here's the at-a-glance breakdown. We'll dive into the details below.

Option 1: Concrete Driveways—The Durable Champion

What Is a Concrete Driveway?

Concrete driveways are poured slabs of cement, aggregate, sand, and water that cure into an incredibly hard-wearing surface. They're the workhorses of the driveway world—simple, strong, and built to last decades.

You can have plain grey concrete for maximum affordability, or upgrade to imprinted/pattern concrete that mimics block paving, cobblestones, or even natural stone. The finish looks premium without the premium maintenance requirements.

Pros of Concrete Driveways

• Extremely long lifespan - Well-installed concrete can last 30+ years
• Handles heavy loads - Perfect for multiple vehicles, commercial vans, or caravans
• Low maintenance - Occasional power wash and reseal every few years
• Affordable - Plain concrete is one of the most cost-effective options
• Imprinted options available - Get the block paving look without the price tag
• Weather resistant - Handles UK freeze-thaw cycles extremely well
• No weeds or shifting - Solid slab means no cracks for weeds to grow through

Cons of Concrete Driveways

• Not SuDS compliant - You'll need drainage channels or planning permission
• Can crack over time - Though expansion joints minimize this risk
• Stains are visible - Oil and petrol marks show up clearly (sealing helps)
• Curing time required - Can't use the driveway for 3-7 days after installation
• Difficult repairs - Damaged sections are harder to fix than block paving

Option 2: Block Paving—The Traditional Favorite

What Is Block Paving?

Block paving (sometimes called brick paving) involves laying individual concrete or clay blocks in patterns. It's been the UK's go-to driveway material for decades, and for good reason—it's versatile, durable, and repairable.

You'll see block paving everywhere in Staffordshire, from Victorian terraces in Stoke to modern estates in Forsbrook. The classic look never really goes out of style.

Pros of Block Paving

• Extremely durable - Can last 25-30 years with proper maintenance
• Easy to repair - Damaged blocks can be lifted and replaced individually
• Design flexibility - Hundreds of colors, patterns (herringbone, basketweave, stretcher bond)
• Adds property value - Well-installed block paving is a selling point
• Can be SuDS compliant - Permeable block paving options exist
• Handles heavy loads well - Perfect if you've got a work van or caravan

Cons of Block Paving

• Requires maintenance - Weeds can grow between blocks, sand jointing needs topping up
• Can sink or shift - If the base isn't done right (we see this a lot with cheap installations)
• Longer installation time - Usually takes 3-5 days depending on size
• Needs sealing - Optional but recommended every 2-3 years to prevent staining
• Mid-range price - £60-90 per m², not cheap but not the most expensive

Option 3: Tarmac Driveways—The Budget Champion

What Is Tarmac?

Tarmac (technically tarmacadam or asphalt) is the same material used on roads. It's a hot-mix of aggregate and bitumen that's laid, compacted, and rolled flat. Simple, effective, and affordable.

Don't let the simplicity fool you—when done properly, tarmac is incredibly durable. We've seen 20-year-old tarmac driveways in Forsbrook that still look decent.

Pros of Tarmac Driveways

• Most affordable option - Typically £40-60 per m²
• Quick installation - Most driveways done in 1-2 days
• Extremely durable - Handles UK weather and heavy vehicles without complaint
• Low maintenance - Just needs resealing every 3-5 years
• Smooth, clean surface - Easy to sweep, no loose stones
• Resurfacing option - Can be overlaid on existing driveways if the base is sound

Cons of Tarmac Driveways

• Not SuDS compliant - You'll need separate drainage solutions or planning permission
• Less aesthetic appeal - It's functional rather than pretty
• Can soften in extreme heat - Though this is rare in Staffordshire
• Stains from oil/petrol - More visible on tarmac than other surfaces
• Edge crumbling - Edges can deteriorate without proper edging

The SuDS Question: Do You Need Planning Permission?

This is huge, and often overlooked. Since 2008, UK regulations require planning permission for non-permeable driveways over 5m² that drain onto public roads.

Here's the breakdown:

• Concrete: Requires drainage channel, soakaway, or planning application
• Permeable block paving: Compliant without permission
• Standard block paving: Needs drainage channel or soakaway
• Tarmac: Requires drainage solution or planning application

We help homeowners navigate this all the time. The good news? With proper planning, any of these options can work. Read our full guide to SuDS-compliant driveways for more details.

Cost Comparison: What Will You Actually Pay?

Let's talk real numbers for a standard 50m² driveway in Staffordshire:

Maintenance: What's the Long-Term Reality?

Concrete Maintenance

• Power wash annually to remove dirt and algae
• Seal every 2-3 years to prevent staining (£250-400 for 50m²)
• Check expansion joints and reseal if necessary
• Treat oil stains promptly with degreaser
• Total annual cost: £50-100 (DIY) or £150-200 (professional)

Block Paving Maintenance

• Weed treatment between blocks (or re-sand joints)
• Pressure wash annually
• Seal every 2-3 years (£200-400 professional job for 50m²)
• Replace any cracked/damaged blocks as needed
• Total annual cost: £50-150 (DIY) or £200+ (professional)

Tarmac Maintenance

• Sweep regularly to prevent debris build-up
• Reseal every 3-5 years (£300-500 for 50m²)
• Fill any cracks promptly to prevent water ingress
• Edge repair as needed
• Total annual cost: £60-100 averaged over time

Which Driveway Suits Your Home?

Our Honest Recommendation

After 30+ years installing driveways across Staffordshire, here's what we typically advise:

For most homes: Concrete is hard to beat for value. It's durable, low-maintenance, and can last a lifetime. Plain concrete keeps costs down, while imprinted concrete gives you the premium look.

For period properties or traditional homes: Block paving complements the architecture better. Choose colors that match your brickwork.

For rental properties or budget projects: Tarmac does the job reliably. Just factor in drainage costs upfront.