Where’s the job?

Scope of Works

• Remove existing timber decking (boards and joists) and sort recyclable timber from general waste

• Inspect and prepare the sub-base where decking is removed, remove vegetation and loose soil

• Excavate and level the driveway area to the required depth for gravel and form falls for drainage

• Supply and lay geotextile weed membrane and install edge restraints where needed to contain gravel

• Supply, spread and compact gravel topping to agreed depth using a plate compactor

• Collect and remove all debris and decking waste to skip or tip and reinstate nearby surfaces; operatives wear PPE and manage nails and dust

Typical Cost

Time on Site

Small jobs (single car driveway and removal of a small deck) typically take 1–2 days; medium projects take 2–4 days. Time extends with poor access, large volumes of decking to remove, need to repair the sub-base, drainage issues, bad weather or if extra plant is required.

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

• Will you remove and properly dispose of the decking and provide a waste transfer note?

• What size and type of gravel do you recommend and can you show samples?

• Is weed membrane, edge restraint and compaction included or quoted separately?

• How will you protect adjacent paving, fences and planting during work?

• Will you need to bring a plate compactor or other plant and are there extra access charges?

• What guarantees or aftercare do you provide and how do you handle any settlement or drainage problems?

How to Avoid Surprises

• Ensure clear vehicle access and reserve parking or a skip position on the street if needed

• Tell the tradie about underground services, soakaways or known drainage runs before work starts

• Agree where waste will be stored and who arranges skip permit or private tipping

• Check planning or estate rules for driveway finishes and any restrictions on material or edging

• Clear pets, children and personal items from the work area and let neighbours know if plant will be used