trying to evaluate all options for replacing the 2mm thick asphalt that calls itself a driveway in front of the garage (I suspect it was laid a few weeks before we viewed the property - it's lasted well at 11 years !).
I suspect that no matter what option finally gets decided (block paving, slabbing, or concrete) the first step will be to remove some earth, and lay some hardcore as a base.
The area is about 13' (4m) square.
Looking at mini digger hire rates, seems you can get a 0.8m3 or 1.5m3. Given I have never handled a digger before is there a trade off in ease of use and size ? Or should I get the biggest I can ? (It's on the front of the house, so no access issues).
Assuming I go down about 50cm, then we're talking about 8m3 of waste. Presumably a skip is needed ... these hippo bags aren't worth it ?
How much hardcore would be needed, and is a whacker plate essential ?
Assuming aesthetics aren't a priority, is there any reason not to finish off by calling a readymix supplier and getting them to dump cubic metres and spend a happy afternoon with a plank of wood levelling it off ?
And the question that's most important ....how hard is it to look really serious and like it's a chore when playing with a mini digger ?
Mini Digger... 5 tonne if you can afford it. Don't fart around with a smaller machine unless space is at a premium. Ask the hire company to demonstrate the machine PROPERLY or GAMI to do the digging for you if you're not confident using one.
Forget a skip, the space you have to put it is just as easily used by piling up the spoil and having a grab lorry remove it.
Check for services under where you're digging. It's not fun turfing up pipes or cables. (DAMHIKIJD!)
Check with local authority about suitable drainage. As Harry says solid slab might not be an option any more as run-off causes more problems.
4 to 6" of Hardcore would be essential in my opinion, tamped well with a Wacker or a Bomag roller.and perhaps steel reinforcing if you are going to slab lay wet concrete, obviously with a drain in the lowest point runoff won't be an issue. A "Soakaway" might be in order if you are serious about the concrete solution so when you got the digger there dig a hole for a plastic cage unless you're on clay, then there's little point unless you get lower than it (Burdens builders merchants have them) and "level" the run to the soakaway.
As for your last paragraph, mini diggers are NOT a toy, in inexperienced hands they can kill, and in your mind the picture of the preparation will look marvellous, but the result a lot less than what you would end up with. Hence why I suggest getting a proper demonstration and then if you aren't happy get a man in. When I was in plant hire I attended a scene for the HSE to try to explain the probable process of why a 3 tonne mini digger tipped sideways killing the user, a "Joe Public" who had used the machine for the first time. It wasn't pleasant. They are fun to use...... If you know their limits, have been properly trained and read the manual, also if you are adaptable and have patience.... A JCB they are not !