What is the cheapest option for a driveway?

Gravel is usually the most affordable type of driveway, costing __[pricing[3].[Location].[Gravel / Shingle Driveways Installation].[averagePriceFormatted]]__ on average in [Location]. Gravel driveways are quick to lay and offers good drainage but needs regular raking and topping up.

What’s the best type of driveway?

That depends on your budget and style. Resin looks smart and is low maintenance. Tarmac is durable and cost-effective. Block paving is great for repairs. Concrete lasts well but can crack over time.

What are the downsides of resin driveways?

They cost more upfront and need a solid base underneath. Poor installation can lead to cracks or weeds.

Is tarmac good for driveways?

Yes. It’s quick to lay, tough and weather resistant. But it can soften in extreme heat and isn’t as decorative as other surfaces.

Should you pressure wash block paving?

Yes; once or twice a year. It lifts dirt and moss. But avoid high pressure near the joints to keep the sand in place.

Is it cheaper to lay concrete or paving slabs?

Concrete tends to be cheaper upfront. But slabs offer more design flexibility and are easier to repair.

Can you jet wash resin driveways?

Yes; gently. Use a wide fan setting to avoid damage.

How much should a new patio cost?

It varies. A small patio with budget slabs will cost considerably less than a premium stone patio, for example. Use our [Job Value Estimator tool](https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/job-estimate-calculator/) to help estimate costs for your patio project.

Do I need council approval for a driveway?

Usually not, unless your driveway is non-permeable and larger than 5m². Always check with your local council for rules in your area.

How much does a concrete driveway cost in [Location]?

In [Location], a concrete driveway typically costs around __[pricing[2].[Location].[Concrete Driveways Installation].[averagePriceFormatted]]__ on average, with exact costs depending on size, access and finish.

Can I tarmac my own driveway?

Technically, yes, but it’s rarely a good idea. Tarmac needs specialist tools and must be laid hot and fast for a proper finish. A DIY job often doesn’t last and can end up costing more to fix later.

What are the disadvantages of tarmac driveways?

Tarmac is tough and budget-friendly, but it can soften in heat, fade over time, and doesn’t offer much in the way of design. It also needs edging to stop it crumbling at the sides.

How do you make block paving look new again?

Start with a pressure wash (avoid blasting the joints), pull out weeds, and re-sand the gaps. Adding sealant can boost colour and protect the surface. Many tradespeople offer a clean-and-restore service if you’d rather not do it yourself.

How do I find a trusted professional for patio or paving work?

When you need a job doing, especially for something larger like new paving or patio, you want to know you can rely on the tradesperson carrying out the work. As we carry out multiple checks and all reviews are verified, you can search Checkatrade and make your choice of tradespeople covering your local that will be able to do the job.

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Find rated driveway, path and patio installers in Kirkwall

Planning a new driveway, patio or garden path? Checkatrade makes it easy to find rated driveway and patio builders near you.

Whether you want a resin-bound surface, tarmac drive, block paving or garden landscaping, we’ll help you find tradespeople in Kirkwall committed to quality.

From driveway paving to patio builds, our tradespeople in Kirkwall have been checked by us, so you can feel confident from first quote to final slab.

Browse driveway companies in Kirkwall
See photos and verified reviews
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Covered by the Checkatrade Guarantee (T&Cs apply)

Want to find reliable companies for driveway installation? We want to help you with that.

Whether it’s a fresh start or a quick repair, you’ll find driveway and patio companies in Kirkwall ready to help. From smooth tarmac to statement slabs, we’ll help you get a job done right.

What to expect from hiring a driveway, patio or path installer in Kirkwall

Hiring a driveway or patio installer isn’t just about what goes on top. It’s about setting a solid base that lasts. Common jobs in Kirkwall include:

New driveway installation (resin, tarmac, concrete, gravel, block paving)
Patio builds and extensions
Garden paths and concrete edging
Driveway and patio repairs

Average costs in Kirkwall

Tarmac driveways

Expect to pay £3475 on average, with prices typically starting at £2511 up to £4842

Concrete driveways

Expect to pay £3509 on average, with prices typically starting at £2491 up to £4969

Gravel driveways

Expect to pay £2592 on average, with prices typically starting at £1905 up to £3559

Resin bound surfacing

Expect to pay £4327 on average, with prices typically starting at £3015 up to £6233

Patios and paving

Expect to pay £3364 on average, with prices typically starting at £2360 up to £4812

Block paving

Expect to pay £2691 on average, with prices typically starting at £1696 up to £4013

Gritting

Expect to pay £330 on average, with prices typically starting at £249 up to £444

Drop kerbs

Expect to pay £1744 on average, with prices typically starting at £1382 up to £2238

Soakaways

Expect to pay £1769 on average, with prices typically starting at £1133 up to £2800

Driveway cleaning

Expect to pay £508 on average, with prices typically starting at £368 up to £712

Driveway and patio design

Expect to pay £6991 on average, with prices typically starting at £5037 up to £9729

Driveway repair

Expect to pay £709 on average, with prices typically starting at £442 up to £1158

What's included in a typical quote?

Labour and materials
Ground prep (like levelling or excavation)
Waste removal

Check if drainage, sealing or sub-base work is included. Some installers charge extra.

Qualifications to look for

Public Liability Insurance is essential
Membership of Interlay or Federation of Master Builders is a plus
Resin, tarmac or paving experience for your chosen finish

Job duration

Most jobs take 5 - 10 days, including drying/curing. Larger patios or detailed work may take longer.
Always get at least 3 written quotes to compare fairly.

Driveways, patios and paths in Kirkwall: Homeowners vs renters

Homeowners:

You’re responsible for installation and maintenance
You won’t usually need planning permission unless drainage is an issue or the surface is impermeable
Some listed buildings or conservation areas may need consent

Renters:

Your landlord is typically responsible for repairs or major changes
Flag issues like loose slabs or trip hazards to them early
Emergency fixes may need written sign-off. Checkatrade trades can help quote or assess the problem

Emergency driveway or patio repairs in Kirkwall

Cracked paving? Sunken slabs? Bad drainage? Some issues can’t wait. If your driveway or patio poses a safety risk or causes flooding, a fast repair is worth it.

Emergency services often include:

Fixing cracked concrete or lifting blocks
Drainage repairs
Re-levelling uneven surfaces
Replacing broken paving

Many driveway contractors in Kirkwall offer quick fixes, especially after frost or storm damage.

Search for emergency paving repair services to find help fast.

Find a driveway or patio tradesperson in Kirkwall

Checkatrade can help you find the right tradesperson for jobs like:

Resin-bound driveways
Concrete imprint driveways
Gravel driveways
Tarmac driveways
Concrete or block paving
Garden patios
Driveway extensions
New garden paths or front steps
Landscaping and driveways

Looking for more tradespeople in Kirkwall?

Find Checkatrade reviewed Tradespeople, get a quote today, discover related services in Kirkwall and check out our latest home improvement guides.