Bluestone is Melbourne's signature paving stone. Here's what it costs to have it supplied and laid in 2026, what pushes the price up or down, and how to get the best value.
Most bluestone paving jobs we quote in Melbourne cost $190–$300 per square metre supplied and laid, including GST. That includes excavation, a compacted crushed-rock base, bedding, laying, cutting and clean-up. A typical 20m² patio or path is about $3,800–$6,000.
| Item | Guide price |
|---|---|
| Bluestone paving, supplied and laid | $190–$300/m² |
| Typical 20m² patio or path | $3,800–$6,000 |
| Typical 40m² courtyard | $7,600–$12,000 |
| 80m² driveway (thicker stone, deeper base) | $15,200–$24,000 |
| Bluestone crazy paving | $170–$270/m² |
Prices include GST and are a guide based on recent Melbourne jobs. Final price depends on access, excavation, drainage and material. Every job gets a free written fixed-price quote after a site visit — or send photos to 0406 170 544 for a quick estimate.
Sawn bluestone has a smooth, cut face and is usually the most affordable finish. Honed bluestone is ground smoother for a refined, contemporary look and costs a little more. Flamed or bush-hammered finishes add texture and grip for pool areas and slopes. Natural-split or tumbled bluestone suits period homes and costs more again.
20mm pavers are standard for paths and patios on a mortar or well-compacted bed. Driveways need thicker stone — 30mm or more — and a deeper base to handle vehicle loads, which increases both material and labour cost.
Standard sizes like 400×400 or 600×300 in a simple stretcher or stack bond are the most economical. Large-format slabs and complex patterns such as herringbone or random ashlar take longer to lay and generate more cuts.
Demolition of old concrete, removal of soil, access for machinery, slopes that need steps or retaining walls, and drainage work all affect the final price. On Melbourne's reactive clay soils, a proper base is essential and we never skimp on it.
Brick paving is $150–$250/m² laid, compared with $190–$300/m² for bluestone. Bluestone is a dense basalt that's heavier to handle, harder to cut and more expensive to quarry and supply. In return you get a surface that lasts for generations and looks right on everything from Victorian terraces to contemporary rebuilds.
For front entries, paths, pool surrounds and patios on quality homes, usually yes. Bluestone doesn't fade, handles Melbourne weather extremely well, and has a timeless look that adds value. It does need sealing to resist staining, and dark bluestone can get warm in full sun — for pool areas we often recommend a lighter finish or combining bluestone coping with a pale travertine surround.
Worked from our 2026 guide prices, inc GST. Demolition, drainage and access are quoted separately after a site visit.
A 20–30m² bluestone patio usually takes three to five working days including excavation, base, laying, cutting, sealing and clean-up. Driveways and larger areas take longer, and sealing needs a dry day or two at the end. We give you the expected timeline in the written quote so you can plan around it.
Victorian bluestone is basalt from lava flows in the west of the state, and it has been used in Melbourne's laneways, kerbs and grand homes since the 1800s. Much of the bluestone sold today is imported basalt with a similar look. Both work well; what matters is density, consistent thickness, a finish that suits the use, and a supplier who can provide enough stone from one batch so the colour matches across the job.
Bluestone is a popular pool coping and surround material because it's dense and durable. Choose a textured finish such as flamed, bush-hammered or sandblasted for grip, and keep in mind that dark stone absorbs heat. Many Melbourne pools use bluestone coping with a paler travertine or porcelain surround to balance looks and comfort.
Travertine ($180–$280/m²) is lighter and cooler underfoot, with a warm Mediterranean look. Porcelain ($180–$280/m²) is the lowest maintenance and very consistent in colour. Bluestone ($190–$300/m²) has the classic Melbourne look, is extremely durable and suits both period and contemporary homes. Many projects combine them — bluestone entries at the front, travertine or porcelain out the back.
Seal bluestone after laying with a penetrating sealer, then reseal every few years. Clean spills quickly, avoid acidic cleaners, and hose down pool areas regularly to remove salt and chlorine. Bluestone develops a soft patina over time that many owners love.
Antonio quotes every bluestone job personally after a free on-site measure, brings samples of different finishes, and gives a written, fixed-price quote. We lay bluestone across Melbourne's east, inner east, south-east & bayside, from Glen Waverley and Balwyn to Brighton and Hampton.
$190–$300/m² supplied and laid (inc GST) for most jobs in 2026.
Slightly — travertine is $180–$280/m² laid. The difference depends on finish and thickness.
Yes, with thicker stone (30mm+) and a deeper, vehicle-rated base.
Yes — sealing helps it resist stains and should be redone every few years.
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Antonio completed our bluestone paving in Hampton and the result is outstanding. The levels, drainage and finishing details are flawless. Highly recommended for high-end paving.
We had a fairly complicated drainage issue on the site, but Antonio came up with a solution and executed it perfectly. The workmanship was top quality, and there were no unexpected surprises along the way.
Antonio runs a very professional small business. Friendly, punctual and hard working. Built 2 retaining walls and remodelled our driveway paving. Would use Antonio's service again.
Antonio and his colleague did a great job with our backyard brick laying. Easy to deal with, on time and professional.
Antonio just completed some brick paving alongside our front fence. The paving looks fabulous and was completed in 2 days. He was reliable and the work was completed to a high standard.
Antonio cleared out our small backyard, laid some pavers and built a step around our existing deck. He was quick to respond, well priced, and was happy to change and vary the scope of works as needed.
Send a few details and photos — Antonio will reply the same day (Mon–Sat).
