How much does tarmac cost per m² in the UK?

Tarmac installation in the UK (2026) typically costs £45–£80 per m² fully installed, including labour, sub-base preparation, and materials. Smaller areas cost more per m² due to fixed setup costs. A standard double driveway (30–40 m²) typically costs £1,500–£3,000 fully installed.

What is the typical depth for a tarmac driveway?

A standard domestic tarmac driveway uses: 150–200mm compacted sub-base (MOT Type 1), 50–60mm binder course tarmac, and 20–30mm wearing course tarmac. Total tarmac layers are 70–90mm. Paths and lightly trafficked areas can use shallower depths (25–40mm wearing course on an existing solid base).

What is the density of tarmac?

The density of compacted tarmac (asphalt) is approximately 2.4 tonnes per cubic metre (t/m³). This is the standard density used by suppliers and contractors for quantity estimates.

Do I need planning permission for a tarmac driveway?

In England, you generally do not need planning permission if the surface drains properly, using a permeable surface or directing run-off to a soakaway or lawn. Standard impermeable tarmac draining to the road or public sewer may require permission. Check with your local council before starting work.

How long does tarmac last?

A well-laid tarmac driveway lasts 15–25 years with proper maintenance. Sub-base quality, drainage, vehicle loading, and climate all affect lifespan. Tarmac can be refreshed with a re-seal coat every 3–5 years. Cracks should be repaired promptly to prevent water ingress and frost damage.

Updated 1 May 2026

Tarmac Calculator · Free UK Cost & Tonnes 2026

Calculate how many tonnes of tarmac you need for your driveway or path, plus a cost estimate based on 2026 UK installation rates.

✓ Free to use✓ Tonnes & area✓ 2026 UK prices✓ Instant results

Tarmac Calculator

Enter dimensions, tonnes needed and cost estimate appear instantly

Length (m)

Width (m)

Depth (mm)

Tarmac needed

1.80 tonnes

Area: 15.0 m², installed cost estimate: £675.00–£1,200.00

Length × Width

5m × 3m

Area

15.00 m²

Depth

50 mm

Volume

0.750 m³

Tarmac density

2.4 t/m³

Tarmac needed

1.80 tonnes

Installation cost (est.)

£675.00 – £1,200.00

Uses 2.4 t/m³ for compacted tarmac. Cost estimates (£45–£80/m²) cover the wearing course and typical installation, sub-base, edging, and VAT may be additional. Always obtain 3 quotes.

How to Calculate Tarmac Quantities

Quick Answer: Tarmac (tonnes) = Length × Width × Depth (metres) × 2.4. A 5m × 3m driveway at 50mm depth needs 1.8 tonnes for the wearing course. Fully installed cost is £45–£80 per m² (2026).

Formula

Tonnes = Length (m) × Width (m) × Depth (m) × 2.4 t/m³

e.g. 5 × 3 × 0.05 × 2.4 = 1.8 tonnes

Worked Example: 5m × 3m driveway, 50mm wearing course

Length5 m

Width3 m

Depth50 mm (0.05 m)

Area15 m²

Volume0.75 m³

Tarmac needed (× 2.4 t/m³)1.8 tonnes

Installation cost (£45–£80/m²)£675–£1,200

Covers wearing course only. Sub-base (MOT Type 1), binder course, and edging are additional costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

To calculate tarmac quantity, multiply length × width × depth (in metres) × density (2.4 t/m³). For a standard driveway the recommended wearing course depth is 40–60mm. A 5m × 3m driveway at 50mm depth needs 5 × 3 × 0.05 × 2.4 = 1.8 tonnes for the top layer alone, the sub-base and binder course are additional.