Sam the Paving Man — Paving in Ashfield

Concrete paver installation costs $50–$120/m² installed (supply and labour). Brick paving costs $60–$150/m². Exposed aggregate concrete driveways cost $100–$200/m². Natural stone (bluestone, travertine) costs $150–$350/m² installed. Prices vary by region, base preparation required, pattern complexity, and access.

Exposed aggregate concrete is the most popular choice — durable, low-maintenance, skid-resistant, and available in many colours and aggregates. Concrete pavers offer the flexibility of replacing individual damaged units. Asphalt is cost-effective for large areas. Brick pavers add character and can be relaid if they settle. For footpaths, clay or concrete pavers suit most styles.

A new vehicle crossover (from street to property) usually requires Council approval and compliance with driveway specifications. Large paved areas that change stormwater drainage patterns may also need Council assessment. In heritage overlay zones, paving materials may be restricted. Check with your local council before starting work.

Quality concrete pavers last 25–50+ years with minimal maintenance. Brick pavers last 30–50+ years. Exposed aggregate concrete driveways last 20–30 years. Natural stone can last 100+ years if properly sealed. Poor base preparation, tree root intrusion, and heavy vehicle loads are the main causes of early paving failure.

The main causes are: inadequate compaction of the sub-base during installation, reactive clay soil movement during wet/dry cycles, tree root intrusion under pavers, and heavy vehicle loading on domestic-grade bedding. Pavers can usually be lifted, the sub-base re-compacted, and relaid — often less expensive than full replacement.