Paving Costs: What Affects the Price of a Paving Job
One of the most common questions we get asked is: "How much does paving cost per square metre?" It's a fair question — but the honest answer is that paving prices vary considerably depending on several factors. Here's what actually drives the cost of a paving project.
Why Paving Prices Vary So Much
You can get three quotes for the same driveway and receive three very different prices. Some of this is genuine market variation. But often, the differences come down to what's actually included — or more importantly, what's left out.
A cheap quote might exclude:
- Proper ground preparation and compaction
- Edge restraints and concrete edging
- Sand bed preparation
- Drainage provision
- Waste removal
- Finishing and cleaning
A proper paving job includes all of these. If you're comparing quotes, make sure you're comparing equivalent scopes of work.
Factors That Affect Paving Costs
1. The Type of Paving Brick
Clay bricks (like Corobrick) cost more than cement bricks, but they're harder, more colour-stable and longer-lasting. Within the Corobrick range, some colours and finishes cost more than others. Flagstones are generally at the higher end of the price range due to their size and the skilled labour required to lay them well.
2. Area Size
Larger areas generally have a lower cost per square metre than smaller jobs — fixed costs like mobilising equipment, mixing sand and preparing edging are spread across more surface area. A 20m² courtyard will cost more per m² than a 100m² driveway.
3. Access and Site Conditions
If a truck can't get close to the work area, materials have to be carried further. If the existing surface needs significant excavation or levelling, that adds cost. A steep gradient requires more careful water management. Rocky or compacted earth may need breaking up before base preparation can begin.
4. Ground Preparation Required
This is where many cheap quotes cut corners — and where many paving failures originate. Proper preparation means:
- Excavating to sufficient depth
- Compacting the sub-base
- Laying a correct sand bed at the right depth
- Ensuring adequate drainage
Skip any of these steps and the paving will eventually sink, crack or shift — often within a few years.
5. Drainage Requirements
Good drainage is essential, particularly for driveways and pool surrounds. A paving job that doesn't address drainage will create water problems. Channel drains, stormwater management and correct gradient all add to the cost but are non-negotiable for a lasting result.
6. Shape and Complexity
Straight rectangular areas are quickest to pave. Curves, irregular shapes, steps, pillars and intricate patterns require more time and generate more waste material. Complex patterns like herringbone in a curved area can be considerably more time-consuming than a straight basket-weave.
7. Edging and Finishing
Concrete haunching around the perimeter and along channels keeps the paving locked in place. This is essential work, but it adds to the job cost. Without proper edging, bricks migrate outward and the paving loses its integrity.
Why Getting the Cheapest Quote Often Costs More
Paving that fails within a few years — sinking, cracking, or coming loose — will need to be relaid. Sometimes the sub-base needs to be entirely redone. You'll pay twice: once for the cheap job and again to fix it properly.
We've been called out to repair and relay paving that was done recently but done badly. It's frustrating for the homeowner and it's expensive. The right preparation at the start saves money in the long run.
See our article on fixing a bad paving situation if you're dealing with this right now.
What You Should Ask When Getting Quotes
When you receive a paving quotation, ask the contractor:
- How deep will you excavate?
- How will the sub-base be compacted?
- What sand depth will be used?
- Is concrete edging included?
- How will drainage be handled?
- Is waste removal included?
- What warranty or guarantee is offered?
A contractor who can answer these questions confidently and in detail is more likely to do the work properly. Read our guide on choosing the right paving contractor for more detail.
Get a Transparent Quote from Aztec Paving
We've been paving driveways, pool surrounds, patios and pathways throughout Alberton and Gauteng for many years. We quote clearly and honestly, and we explain exactly what's included. We don't cut corners on preparation — it's what ensures the paving lasts.
Contact us for a free, no-obligation paving quotation.