How Much Type 1 MOT Do I Need? Calculator + Guide

Find out exactly how much Type 1 MOT sub-base you need for your driveway or patio. Free calculator included plus a step-by-step guide for UK homeowners.

5/28/20264 min read

How Much Type 1 MOT Do I Need? (Calculator + Complete Guide)

If you are planning a new driveway, patio or path, getting the amount of Type 1 MOT right is essential. Too little and your surface will sink. Too much and you waste money. This guide shows you exactly how to calculate how much Type 1 sub-base you need, with a free calculator and worked examples for common UK project sizes.

What is Type 1 MOT sub-base?

Type 1 MOT is a crushed stone material — usually limestone, granite or recycled concrete — that is used as a compacted sub-base beneath driveways, patios, paths and car parks. It is the most widely used sub-base material in the UK because it compacts tightly, drains well and provides a stable load-bearing foundation.

The "MOT" in the name refers to the Ministry of Transport specification it meets. Type 1 means the stone is graded to a specific size (typically 0–40mm) with very little fine material, which gives it excellent compaction properties.

How much Type 1 MOT do I need?

The amount of Type 1 MOT you need depends on three things: the length and width of your project area, and the depth of sub-base required.

The formula is:

Volume (m³) = Length (m) × Width (m) × Depth (m)

Weight (tonnes) = Volume × 2.1

The figure 2.1 is the bulk density of compacted Type 1 MOT in tonnes per cubic metre.

For example, a 5m × 4m driveway at 100mm (0.1m) depth requires:

5 × 4 × 0.1 × 2.1 = 4.2 tonnes of Type 1 MOT

Always add 10–15% extra to account for compaction and wastage. So for this example, order approximately 4.7–4.9 tonnes.

Recommended Type 1 MOT depth guide

The depth of sub-base you need depends on the intended use of the surface:

– Footpath or garden path: 75mm compacted depth

– Domestic patio: 100mm compacted depth

– Standard domestic driveway (cars): 100–150mm compacted depth

– Heavy vehicles or commercial use: 150–200mm compacted depth

– Poor or unstable ground: increase depth by 50mm

When in doubt, use 150mm. It is the most common choice for UK driveways and provides a solid foundation for most conditions.

Type 1 MOT quantities for common UK project sizes

Here are pre-calculated amounts for typical domestic projects at 100mm depth (add 10% for wastage):

3m × 3m patio: approximately 1.9 tonnes

4m × 4m patio: approximately 3.4 tonnes

5m × 3m driveway: approximately 3.2 tonnes

5m × 5m driveway: approximately 5.3 tonnes

6m × 4m driveway: approximately 5.0 tonnes

8m × 4m driveway: approximately 6.7 tonnes

For 150mm depth, multiply the above figures by 1.5. Use our Type 1 MOT calculator at the top of this page for any custom size.

How to use the Type 1 MOT calculator

1. Enter the length of your project area in metres

2. Enter the width in metres

3. Select the required depth (75mm, 100mm or 150mm)

4. The calculator will show the volume in cubic metres and the weight in tonnes

5. Add 10–15% to your order to allow for compaction and wastage

When ordering from a builder's merchant or aggregate supplier, always quote tonnes rather than cubic metres, as Type 1 MOT is sold by weight in the UK.

Where to buy Type 1 MOT sub-base in the UK

Type 1 MOT is available from most builders merchants and aggregate suppliers across the UK. It is typically sold in:

– Bulk bags (approximately 850kg per bag) — ideal for smaller projects up to 3 tonnes

– Loose loads by tipper lorry — more economical for larger quantities above 3–4 tonnes

– Small bags (25kg) — available at DIY stores for very small repairs

For most domestic driveways, a loose tipper delivery is the most cost-effective option. Prices vary by region but typically range from £25 to £45 per tonne for loose supply and deliver in 2026.

Frequently asked questions

Q: How much Type 1 do I need for a driveway?

A: For a standard domestic driveway at 100mm depth, use the formula: Length × Width × 0.1 × 2.1 to get the weight in tonnes. For a typical 5m × 4m driveway this is approximately 4.2 tonnes. Add 10% for wastage, so order around 4.6 tonnes. For clay or unstable ground, increase depth to 150mm.

Q: What is the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 MOT?

A: Type 1 MOT uses angular crushed stone that locks together when compacted, making it the stronger and more stable option. Type 2 uses slightly larger, less angular material and is less suitable as a primary sub-base for driveways. Type 1 is always the recommended choice for domestic driveways and patios in the UK.

Q: Can I use Type 1 MOT for a patio?

A: Yes. Type 1 MOT is an excellent sub-base for patios. Use a compacted depth of 100mm for most patios. Lay it on a prepared and levelled surface, compact it thoroughly with a plate compactor, then lay your sand and paving on top. Do not skip the compaction step — uncompacted sub-base will lead to an uneven, unstable patio surface.

Q: How much does Type 1 MOT cost in the UK?

A: In 2026, Type 1 MOT typically costs £25–£45 per tonne for loose delivery by tipper lorry, depending on your location and order size. Bulk bags (around 850kg) cost £40–£70 each. Always get at least two quotes from local aggregate suppliers as prices vary significantly by region.

Use our free Type 1 MOT calculator to get an instant quantity estimate for your project. Simply enter your dimensions and depth and the result appears immediately — no sign-up or download required. If you are also planning the surface layer, check our construction area calculator for help working out your total project dimensions.

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