The cost of pavers in Perth could range anywhere from $30 to over $100 per square metre for materials alone, depending on the type and style chosen. With installation, preparation, and other considerations included, the total cost could fall between $80 and $200 per square metre. These figures are general estimates and actual costs could vary depending on individual project needs.
When planning any kind of paving work—whether for a patio, driveway, path or pool surround—it helps to understand the factors that could influence pricing. Perth homeowners have a wide range of options, and making informed choices early could help keep things on track, both visually and financially.
What Could Affect the Cost of Paving in Perth?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to paving costs. Several key elements could affect the total project price, including:
- The type of pavers used (concrete, brick, or natural stone)
- The size and shape of the area being paved
- The amount of ground preparation required
- The complexity of the pattern or layout
- Site access and ease of delivery
- Whether drainage or sealing is required
Each of these factors could influence both material and labour costs. Understanding them could make it easier to choose a paving solution that suits both your budget and your outdoor space.
Common Paver Types and Estimated Price Ranges
Concrete Pavers
Concrete pavers are one of the most widely used materials for outdoor paving in Perth. Depending on the size, finish and quality, the cost of concrete pavers could fall somewhere between $30 and $60 per square metre for materials. They are often chosen for their affordability, range of colours, and durability.
Their versatility makes them suitable for everything from driveways to patios and pathways. However, some products could fade over time or require sealing for protection in high-traffic areas.
Brick (Clay) Pavers
Brick or clay pavers are another popular choice, especially for traditional-style homes. The cost of these pavers could start from around $50 per square metre and go upwards based on quality and style.
They are known for their ability to retain colour over time and offer a classic look. However, installation could take longer due to their smaller size, which in turn could increase labour charges.
Natural Stone Pavers
Natural stone—such as limestone, bluestone, granite or travertine—could cost considerably more, typically from $70 to $150 or more per square metre. These products offer a premium appearance and are often used around pools, in courtyards, or to highlight landscaping features.
Natural stone pavers could also come with additional considerations, such as the need for sealing and more detailed installation work, which could add to the final project cost.
Labour and Installation Costs in Perth
In addition to the materials, the cost of installation could significantly affect the total price of a paving project. Labour in Perth could range from $50 to $100 per square metre, depending on the site conditions, the type of pavers used, and the layout pattern.
Some installers might charge by the hour, with rates that could fall between $50 and $80 per hour, particularly for smaller jobs or those with unusual access requirements. A simple square patio with easy access could cost far less to install than a curved driveway on a sloped block.
Factors that could increase labour costs include:
- Poor access or limited working space
- The need to remove old materials
- Detailed patterns or borders
- Sloping or uneven terrain
These variables make it essential to assess the full site and scope before finalising a budget.
Ground Preparation and Optional Extras
Site Prep
Preparation work could include excavation, compacting a sub-base, and levelling the area before pavers are laid. Depending on how much work is involved, ground preparation could add anywhere from $10 to $40 per square metre to the overall cost.
If there is an existing concrete slab or old paving in place, that could need to be removed first, which would add further labour time and disposal fees.
Edge Restraints
To keep the pavers perth in place—especially around curved areas or driveways—edge restraints could be needed. These could be made from concrete, metal or plastic, and the added cost could range depending on materials and installation time.
Sealing
Not all paving jobs require sealing, but some materials, particularly natural stone or light-coloured concrete, could benefit from it. Sealing could protect the pavers from stains, moisture and discolouration. This step could add another $10 to $25 per square metre, depending on the product used and the surface condition.
What Could a Typical Paving Project Cost?
While every job is different, here are some rough examples of how paving costs could add up:
- A small patio area of around 20 square metres could end up costing somewhere between $1,600 and $4,000 depending on materials and layout.
- A medium-sized residential driveway (roughly 40 square metres) could come in around $3,200 to $8,000.
- A large pool area using premium natural stone (60 square metres or more) could potentially cost upwards of $10,000.
These figures are based on averages only and actual costs could vary depending on site conditions, materials selected, and labour availability.
How To Keep Paving Costs Manageable
There are a few ways to keep paving costs under control, particularly if you’re working to a specific budget:
- Consider concrete pavers over natural stone to reduce material costs
- Stick to simpler layouts to reduce labour time
- Avoid complex curves or patterns that require cutting
- Use standard sizes to minimise waste
- Prepare the area yourself if you’re confident in handling basic groundwork
- Ask suppliers about discounted or clearance stock
These small changes could make a noticeable difference to the final cost without sacrificing the overall result.
Is DIY Paving Worth Considering?
DIY paving could be a way to reduce labour costs, but it comes with risks. Laying pavers requires precision, knowledge of site preparation and correct compaction to ensure the surface doesn’t shift or sink over time.
DIY paving might be feasible for small projects like a straight garden path, but for anything involving drainage, complex layouts or heavy materials like natural stone, professional installation could be more reliable.
Poor preparation could lead to uneven finishes, water pooling, or early failures in the paved surface, which could cost more to fix down the line than hiring a skilled team in the first place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pavers more expensive than plain concrete?
They could be. While pavers tend to have a higher initial cost, they often offer better long-term flexibility and visual appeal compared to plain concrete surfaces.
Do all pavers need sealing?
Not necessarily. Some pavers, especially darker or denser materials, may not require sealing. Others—like natural stone or pale concrete—could benefit from it to maintain appearance and performance.
How long do pavers last?
With correct installation and maintenance, pavers could last 20 to 30 years or more. Natural stone varieties could last even longer, particularly when sealed and cleaned periodically.
Can you lay new pavers over an existing surface?
In some cases, yes. If the existing surface is stable and level, it could be possible to lay new pavers over the top. However, professional advice is recommended to avoid drainage or height issues.
Understanding the potential cost of pavers in Perth—and the many variables that could affect it—could help homeowners plan ahead with confidence. From choosing the right material to understanding what’s involved in installation, being well-informed could make a major difference when it comes time to pave.
