How do I know if my driveway needs a full rebuild?

If water is pooling in multiple spots, the surface flexes underfoot, or blocks are sinking in more than one area, the sub-base has likely failed and a rebuild is the reliable fix.

Is it cheaper to repair than install new?

Yes, repair work is generally cheaper because it avoids excavation and new sub-base materials, but only if the underlying base is sound.

Can a contractor tell which I need from a photo?

Not reliably. Most reputable contractors will want to see the site and possibly dig a small inspection hole before confirming.

New driveway installation vs repair: which do you need

Before contacting contractors it helps to know which job you're actually asking for, because installers price and plan these very differently. A full installation means excavating the existing surface, laying a new sub-base and drainage, then finishing with tarmac, block paving or resin. A repair job works with what's already there and fixes specific defects.

Signs you likely need a full install: the driveway is sinking or pooling water across large areas, the base was never done properly to begin with, or the surface is more patch than original material already. Signs a repair will do: isolated cracks, a few loose or sunken blocks, or edging that's come away while the main surface is sound.

Full installation: excavation, sub-base, drainage, new surface
Repair: patching, re-bedding blocks, edge repair, localised resurfacing
Getting this distinction right before quoting saves wasted site visits

What it costs

A full installation costs substantially more than a repair because it involves excavation, aggregate sub-base and disposal of the old surface, whereas repair work reuses the existing base. Ask any contractor to state clearly in their quote which category the job falls into, since some will quote a repair price then find the base has failed once they start digging.

Top 3 by our score

Ranked from our published scoring of public Google reviews for driveway paving.

1. BJ Surfacing
4.8★ · 148 reviews

88
2. Grass Scape
4.9★ · 35 reviews

84
3. B E Rudman
4.9★ · 32 reviews

79

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FAQ

How do I know if my driveway needs a full rebuild?: If water is pooling in multiple spots, the surface flexes underfoot, or blocks are sinking in more than one area, the sub-base has likely failed and a rebuild is the reliable fix.
Is it cheaper to repair than install new?: Yes, repair work is generally cheaper because it avoids excavation and new sub-base materials, but only if the underlying base is sound.
Can a contractor tell which I need from a photo?: Not reliably. Most reputable contractors will want to see the site and possibly dig a small inspection hole before confirming.

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