How much does a driveway cost in Watford?

Typical replacements run £2,500–£7,500 depending on size, finish, and base depth. Block paving and resin sit higher than tarmac for the same area.

Do I need permission to replace a driveway in Watford?

Like-for-like replacements with permeable finishes typically fall under permitted development. Non-permeable surfaces over 5 sqm need a SuDS strategy or planning consent.

How long does a typical Watford driveway take?

Most 30–60 sqm replacements complete in 2–5 working days once materials and base prep are organised.

How long does tarmac last?

10–25 years depending on base quality, traffic levels, and maintenance frequency.

Can tarmac be laid over an existing surface?

Sometimes, if the existing base is sound and levels allow it. A survey is recommended before proceeding.

What is the difference between tarmac and asphalt?

Tarmac uses tar as the binder, asphalt uses bitumen. Modern domestic driveways are usually asphalt — contractors often use the term tarmac informally.

Active across WD · AL · HP postcodes

Tarmac Driveways in Watford

The most cost-effective way to surface a driveway properly — fast to install, hard-wearing, and the right answer when the brief is durability and value over premium finish.

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At a glance

For you if you have a larger driveway or rural plot and need a tough, no-fuss surface that prioritises durability and value over decorative detail.

Typical timeline2–5 days depending on base preparation and drainage.

Price guide£25–£60 per sqm installed

What tarmac driveways looks like in Watford

Vetted driveway and paving contractors covering Watford, Bushey, Borehamwood, Radlett and the wider WD postcode area — specialists in the 1930s-semi and modern-build housing stock that defines the town.

Local property patterns

A high share of 1930s semi-detached and modern builds with off-street frontages already in use.
Most properties have straight, accessible drives where the work is replacement and upgrade rather than new layout.
Buyers commonly compare block paving and resin against tarmac for cost-vs-finish trade-offs.

Things worth checking locally

Residential streets are generally accessible for materials; some terraced streets still need temporary parking suspensions.
Drainage planning is often straightforward, but check existing falls before assuming a like-for-like replacement.
Crossover applications go through Hertfordshire County Council where new dropped kerbs are required.

Things to compare carefully

Tarmac softens in very high heat — edging and banding with block or granite kerbs improves longevity.
A good quality binder course beneath the wearing course significantly extends lifespan.
Oil and fuel spills can stain and damage the surface if not cleaned quickly.
Re-coating with tarmac sealant every 3–5 years preserves appearance and life.
Tarmac is non-permeable — drainage routing must be planned in the design stage.

Pricing context for Watford

Pricing in Watford is most influenced by surface choice, base depth, and edging spec — access is rarely the dominant cost driver here.

Open the cost guide

Questions to ask Watford contractors

How will you handle drainage for my Watford property layout?
What base depth and compaction spec are you including?
Can you itemize edging, waste removal, and reinstatement?
What timeline assumptions depend on access in Watford?
What warranty applies to both materials and workmanship?

Common questions

How much does a driveway cost in Watford?: Typical replacements run £2,500–£7,500 depending on size, finish, and base depth. Block paving and resin sit higher than tarmac for the same area.
Do I need permission to replace a driveway in Watford?: Like-for-like replacements with permeable finishes typically fall under permitted development. Non-permeable surfaces over 5 sqm need a SuDS strategy or planning consent.
How long does a typical Watford driveway take?: Most 30–60 sqm replacements complete in 2–5 working days once materials and base prep are organised.
How long does tarmac last?: 10–25 years depending on base quality, traffic levels, and maintenance frequency.
Can tarmac be laid over an existing surface?: Sometimes, if the existing base is sound and levels allow it. A survey is recommended before proceeding.
What is the difference between tarmac and asphalt?: Tarmac uses tar as the binder, asphalt uses bitumen. Modern domestic driveways are usually asphalt — contractors often use the term tarmac informally.

Other driveways services in Watford

Block Paving in WatfordFor you if you want a finish that adds visible value, can be repaired in sections, and stands up to two-car daily use.Resin Driveways in WatfordFor you if you want a sleek, modern look with rainwater drainage handled at the surface and minimal ongoing upkeep.Driveway Repairs in WatfordFor you if your driveway has localised damage, the underlying base is still sound, and full replacement isn't yet justified.

Looking at this service in general?

Read the full national overview of tarmac driveways for cost drivers, materials, and lifecycle considerations beyond Watford.

Open the Tarmac Driveways guide

Also serving nearby

BusheyBorehamwoodRadlettSt AlbansHemel Hempstead

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