Block Paving vs. Tarmac – Which Driveway Material Is Right for You?

A Comparison of Two Popular Driveway Materials
Choosing the right driveway material is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when improving the exterior of your home. From appearance and durability to cost and maintenance, the material you select has a lasting impact on both aesthetics and performance. In this article, we compare two of the most popular options – block paving and tarmac – to help you decide which is best for your property in Glasgow.
Block Paving – Style, Strength and Customisation
Block paving is a favourite among homeowners who want to enhance the kerb appeal of their property. It offers a wide variety of colours, patterns and finishes. In projects where there are drainage considerations, block paving provides wider options; from classic Tegula block paving to modern, luxury designs.
Key Benefits:
- Highly customisable – Choose from different styles and layouts.
- Easy to repair – Individual blocks can be replaced if damaged.
- Great for drainage – Permeable options are available.
- Long-lasting – With proper installation and maintenance.
At Neil Walker Driveways, our monoblock driveway installations and contemporary paving options are tailored to your property for maximum impact and durability.
Considerations:
- Higher upfront cost than tarmac.
- Requires occasional maintenance to prevent weed growth.
Tarmac Driveways – Affordable, Durable and Fast to Install
Tarmac is a practical and cost-effective driveway solution, especially suitable for larger areas or homeowners working with a tighter budget. It’s also quick to install – ideal if you’re looking for a faster turnaround.
Key Benefits:
- Budget-friendly – Typically lower initial cost.
- Smooth finish – Clean, minimalist look.
- Quick installation – Often completed in just a few days.
- Durable – Withstands heavy vehicles and foot traffic.
Our tarmac driveway installations in Glasgow are built with expert groundwork preparation to ensure a long-lasting, even finish.
Considerations:
- Limited visual options – Black or red finishes are most common.
- Not as customisable in design as block paving.
Which Driveway Material Is Best for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer – the right choice depends on your budget, style preferences and how you use your driveway.
Ask Yourself:
- Do you want your driveway to stand out or blend in?
- Is long-term maintenance or upfront cost more important?
- How much traffic does your driveway get daily?
At Neil Walker Driveways, we’ll guide you through every step of the decision-making process – from design planning to expert installation. And with no upfront payments, a 5-year workmanship warranty and 20+ years of experience, you can be confident your driveway is in expert hands.
Considering a New Driveway? Contact Neil Walker Driveways Today!
Whether you’re leaning towards the timeless look of block paving or the efficiency of tarmac, we’re here to help. Our family-run team has delivered hundreds of high-quality installations across Glasgow and surrounding areas, with no upfront payments and a 5-year workmanship warranty as standard.
We understand that every home is unique. That’s why we offer custom driveway designs tailored to your space, your preferences and your budget. From ground preparation to final detailing, we ensure a flawless finish that lasts.