Pricing by Surface and Finish
Pricing is per square metre and is set by the finish tier. Work is measured on site before a figure is given, because the ground beneath the surface changes what the job involves.
Block paving
Modular paving laid on a compacted sub-base, with joints and edge restraint forming part of the finish. Typically used for driveways, paths and some courtyard areas.
The position within the range depends on the area, the depth of excavation, access and the detailing at edges and thresholds.
Repairs and smaller areas can sit differently within the range from a full installation, as setting up and removal are the same either way.
Porcelain & flag
Large-format porcelain or flag paving, laid with tighter joints and a flatter finished surface on a prepared and compacted base. Typically used for patios and courtyards.
Cutting, handling and setting out larger units takes more time than smaller modular paving, which is reflected in the tier.
Where an existing surface has to be lifted first, or where levels are tight against the building, the figure moves within the range.
Natural stone & detailing
Natural stone with cut edges, together with steps, borders, banding and other detail work where more time goes into setting out, cutting and finishing.
Detail work is measured as part of the area but takes longer per square metre, which is why this tier sits above the others.
Step formations, changes of level and shaped edges raise the position within the range.
Area to be surfaced
A larger area spreads the fixed parts of the job, such as setting up, delivery and removal of excavated material, across more square metres. A smaller area carries the same fixed parts over fewer square metres, which affects where the figure sits within the tier.
Access
Where a machine, a delivery or a skip can reach the work determines how much of it is done by hand. Restricted access, narrow openings or long carries across the property slow the work and change the figure.
Existing surface to remove
An existing driveway, patio or path has to be broken out and taken away before the ground layer can be built. The type and thickness of what is there, and how easily it comes up, is part of the price.
Ground conditions and excavation depth
Soft, mixed or made-up ground is excavated and replaced rather than covered. Where the ground is poor, or where the finished level has to sit lower, more excavation and more sub-base are needed.
Drainage
Falls are formed as part of the ground layer on every project. Where water has to be taken to a specific point, or where a run or outlet has to be set in, that work is additional to the surface itself.
Edge detailing and finishing
Restraint along edges, cut borders, steps, changes of level and the way joints are finished all take time. Straightforward edges in a simple layout sit lower in a tier than shaped edges and stepped levels.
Material choice within a tier
The three tiers cover families of surfaces rather than a single product. Within a tier, the material selected, its format and how it is laid all move the figure up or down the published range.
The area is measured and the ground looked at before any figure is given.