Thinking of installing a tarmac driveway? You’ve come to the right place!
Tarmac is traditionally the go-to surface for driveways because it’s relatively low-cost and requires little maintenance. It offers the benefit of being able to drive or walk onto the surface within a couple of hours of completion. Although it’s not as high-performance or as aesthetically-pleasing as resin, tarmac driveways still have their place in the modern world.
Tarmac is weather-resistant and inherently porous to allow water drainage. It can sustain heavy loads and should remain pristine for at least five years, provided it’s properly maintained.
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Tarmac surfacing is a straightforward process that happens in three stages. You can normally lay a tarmac driveway within a single day, depending on the condition of the existing surface.
Sub-base – We first excavate and lay an “803” sub-base (granular material produced from concrete, asphalt and aggregate) that is raked in and compacted with a roller.
Base coating – A layer of bigger aggregate is added and compacted.
Top coating – The final stage is the addition of smaller, smoother aggregate. The surface is compacted a final time for a super smooth finish.
We can beautify your tarmac driveway even further by adding paving and pretty edges to delineate and create a pleasing contrast.
A properly installed tarmac driveway typically lasts between 15-20 years when properly maintained. The longevity depends on several factors including the quality of installation, local climate conditions, drainage efficiency, and regular maintenance. In the UK’s variable weather, ensuring proper drainage and occasional resealing can significantly extend your driveway’s lifespan.
Tarmac driveways require minimal maintenance compared to other surfacing options. Regular sweeping to remove debris and occasional power washing keeps your driveway looking its best. We recommend applying a quality tarmac sealant every 3-5 years to protect against UV damage and water penetration. During winter, avoid using salt-based ice melters as these can damage the surface – instead, opt for sand or specially formulated tarmac-friendly de-icers.
In many cases, tarmac can be laid over existing concrete or older tarmac surfaces, provided they’re structurally sound with no major cracks or drainage issues. This overlay method (sometimes called “resurface” or “overlay”) can save time and reduce excavation costs. However, we’ll always conduct a thorough assessment of your existing surface first – if the foundation isn’t suitable, a complete removal and replacement will provide better long-term results.
