Driveway Construction Standards in Farnham

Understanding Farnham’s Ground Conditions

Farnham’s soil profile varies greatly by area and influences how we design each driveway sub-base and soil treatment:

• Lower Bourne / Wrecclesham: sandy soil with good drainage but prone to shifting if not properly compacted.
• Frensham / Tilford: silty sand with significant tree root influence (see also our tree roots & ground movement guide).
• Upper Hale / Heath End: compacted subsoil with occasional clay pockets that hold water.
• Rowledge / Crondall: generally stable but often uneven ground with cross-falls to consider.

These differences affect excavation depth, sub-base choice and drainage design for each driveway and are a key part of our survey process.

Correct Driveway Excavation Depths

For a strong driveway, excavation must reach stable ground and allow space for a proper build-up:

• Block paving driveways: 200–350 mm total excavation.
• Gravel driveways: 150–250 mm.
• Natural stone setts: 200–300 mm.
• Reinforced stone or premium courtyards: up to 400 mm where subsoil is weak.

Getting this right is one of the main differences between a driveway that performs for decades and one that develops ruts, settlement and ponding. Our subsidence & surface longevity guide for Farnham explains why build-up depth matters just as much for driveways as for patios.

MOT Type 1 Sub-Base – The Foundation

The sub-base is the structural heart of a driveway. In Farnham we typically use:

• 100–200 mm MOT Type 1 compacted in layers for standard domestic parking and turning.
• Occasionally Type 3 permeable sub-base where SUDS compliance is required or where we pair the drive with broader drainage improvements.
• Geotextile membrane where sandy soils or made-up ground risk migration and movement.

A well-compacted, correctly specified sub-base is the single biggest factor in long-term performance.

Block Paving Driveways

Block paving remains a popular choice across Farnham due to its classic appearance, flexibility and ease of future repair. It pairs well with matching or contrasting front patios and paths.

Correct Installation Method

• 150–250 mm MOT Type 1 sub-base, compacted in layers.
• 30–50 mm sharp sand screed layer, screeded to accurate falls.
• Blocks laid to pattern with tight joints.
• Kiln-dried sand brushed into joints.
• Plate compaction in multiple passes.
• Edge restraints installed in concrete to lock the surface.

Best Uses

• Family homes with regular parking and turning.
• Wide driveways and forecourts.
• Properties where individual blocks may need replacing in future.

Gravel Driveways

Gravel is ideal for rural or woodland-edge properties in Rowledge, Tilford, Crondall or Frensham, where a softer, more natural look suits the setting and planning expectations. It also combines well with low retaining details and planting from our retaining walls & level changes guide.

Recommended Build-Up

• 100–150 mm compacted sub-base.
• Optional stabilising grid for slopes or high-traffic areas.
• 20–50 mm decorative gravel layer.

Correct edge detailing and grid use can greatly reduce gravel migration and ruts on sloping drives.

Natural Stone Sett Driveways

A premium, long-lasting option suitable for period homes in The Bourne, Moor Park and other high-end areas of Farnham. When paired with matching front garden layouts these surfaces can completely transform kerb appeal.

Installation Details

• Deep excavation and robust sub-base for stability.
• Full concrete bed for the setts.
• Mortar jointing or high-quality resin-bound joints.

Natural stone setts are labour-intensive but can last for decades when detailed correctly.

Drainage & SUDS Rules for Farnham Driveways

Driveways must comply with SUDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) unless:

• The new hard surface is under 5 m², or
• Water drains into your own permeable area (such as a lawn or soakaway) rather than the public highway.

We design drainage using combinations of:

• Channel drains linked to soakaways or permeable areas.
• Permeable sub-base systems or permeable paving where appropriate.
• Carefully planned slopes that direct water away from the house and garage.

For more detail on how this ties into wider garden layouts, see our Farnham garden drainage & groundworks guide and planning permission rules for Farnham landscaping.

Driveway Costs in Farnham

Typical ranges for high-quality installation:

• Block paving: £120 – £180 per m²
• Gravel driveways: £55 – £95 per m²
• Stone sett driveways: £200 – £350 per m²

Final figures will depend on access, excavation depth, drainage requirements and detailing such as steps, boundaries and walls. Our Farnham landscaping costs guide gives a broader overview across patios, driveways and full garden projects, and our guide to choosing a landscaper in Farnham covers how to compare quotes fairly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Driveways in Farnham

Do I need planning permission for a new driveway in Farnham?

Many Farnham driveways are possible under permitted development, provided surface water drains to a permeable area within your property or via a permeable build-up. Front garden conversions, conservation areas and listed buildings can introduce extra rules, so we always review this with you at survey stage and may reference local planning guidance.

How long does a typical driveway project take?

A straightforward replacement block driveway may take around a week from start to finish. Larger forecourts, complex levels or sub-base improvements can extend this to several weeks, particularly if drainage or retaining structures are included.

Can you combine driveway works with patios and paths?

Yes — and it’s often the most efficient way to work. Coordinating driveways, front paths and any threshold patios allows us to get levels, drainage and finishes consistent across the whole front approach and tie neatly into any wider garden transformation.

Which surface is best for my Farnham property?

It depends on how you use the space, local character and budget. Block paving is versatile, gravel can feel softer and more rural, and stone setts suit period or statement homes. We’ll usually discuss the pros and cons of each on site, with examples from recent projects where possible.

Areas We Cover

Farnham · Wrecclesham · Lower Bourne · Rowledge · Upper Hale · Heath End · Runfold · Frensham · Tilford · Crondall · Ewshot · Boundstone

Planning a Driveway in Farnham?

We’d be pleased to visit your property, assess the ground conditions and provide a fixed quotation based on proper construction standards and current drainage rules.

Request a Driveway Consultation

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