How Much Does It Cost to Convert a Front Garden into a Driveway?

Nowadays there has been a large increase in the number of vehicles driven but limited street parking. This makes having a driveway a smart investment. In this blog post we will look at how much it costs to convert a front garden into a driveway. 

Why Convert Your Front Garden into a Driveway? 

Before we look at the costs, here are some reasons why converting your front garden into a driveway is a good investment:

1. Property Value – 

A driveway that has been well designed and built is a good investment, because off street parking can significantly increase the value of your property. Potential buyers are more likely to choose homes that already have a driveway. Also, if you combine well designed driveways and patios this will further add value to your home. 

2. More Parking Space – 

In most areas on street parking can be scarce or restricted. By converting your front garden into a driveway, you can have a secure and private area for your vehicles, this is great if you have a household with multiple cars. 

3. Insurance Costs Lowered – 

Having your own driveway might also save you money. A lot of insurers offer reduced premiums for vehicles that are parked on a driveway rather than on the street. This is because they are more likely to be accidently damaged, vandalised or stolen if parked on the streets. 

4. Low Maintenance – 

If you have a garden there is generally more upkeep than having a driveway. This is ideal if you want to reduce gardening chores. 

Do I need Planning Permission?

You might be wondering if you need planning permission to convert your front garden into a driveway. This depends on a couple of factors: 

• If you’re using permeable materials (such as gravel, porous asphalt, or permeable block paving), you do not need planning permission.
• If using non-permeable surfaces and the area is over 5 square metres, you’ll need to apply for planning permission and include a drainage system that directs water to a permeable area.

It’s always best to check either with your local council or with a professional contractor. At Consumer Advisory we will put you directly in touch with reliable and vetted accredited contractors who can design and install your driveways and patios. Click on the link to get up to 3 free quotes Patio and Driveway Contractors London | Kent | Surrey | East Sussex | West Sussex . 

Factors That Affect the Cost 

There are certain factors that will affect the total cost of your driveway:

1. Size Of the Driveway 

2. Ground Preparation 

Your front garden will most likely require excavation, levelling and removal of turf or any old paths. This preparation work will roughly cost £40 – £70 per square metre. 

3. Material Choices 

The materials you choose will affect the price: 

4. Drainage Requirements 

If your driveway isn’t permeable, you’ll need to install drainage systems which can add £700–£1,700 to the overall project cost.

5. Curb Dropping 

You might need to have a drop curb installed. Usually this will need the council’s approval, this can cost between £1,000 and £2,000 depending on your location. 

Total Cost Summary by Area 

This is a rough breakdown of total costs by area, assuming a 30m² driveway with standard materials: 

How Long Does a Driveway Conversion Take? 

Most driveway conversions usually take between 3 to 10 days depending on:

• The size of the project 
• Weather Conditions 
• Material Selected 

Choosing the Best Contractor 

It’s important to hire a trustworthy and reliable accredited contractor to install your driveway. At Consumer Advisory we will put you directly in contact with accredited contractors in Kent, Surrey, London, East Sussex and West Sussex. Our contractors are fully insured and comply with local planning laws and building regulations to put your mind at ease. To get up to 3 free quotes click on the following link  Patio and Driveway Contractors London | Kent | Surrey | East Sussex | West Sussex .

Driveways and Patios: Should You Combine Both? 

You could consider having a combination of your driveway and patio into a single design. By blending your driveway and patio you can enhance functionality and add value to your property. Here are reasons why it’s a good idea to combine your driveway and patio:

• Outdoor Space Maximised – You can make efficient use of your land by combining a driveway and patio. A design can be made to transform your unused space into a practical area. 
• Look – If you have your patio and driveway coordinated it can help bring both areas together providing an appealing look. 
• Functionality – Combining your patio and driveway can allow for versatile use of your space. For example, your patio can be used as an overflow parking space if needed.

Popular Combination Ideas Include:

• The driveway leading to a patio seating area.
• The patio borders matching the driveway finish.
• Dual purpose zones for parking and entertaining. 

Conclusion 

Converting your front garden into a driveway comes with plenty of benefits such as more parking space, reduced insurance costs, increased property value and being low maintenance. It’s essential to understand the different factors that affect the overall cost of your driveway, so you can budget effectively.

We recommend hiring professional accredited contractors to install your driveways and patios. They offer experience and knowledge and will complete your driveways and patios efficiently and to the highest standards. Consumer Advisory will put you directly in contact with approved and accredited contractors to install your driveways and patios.

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