Are you considering upgrading your home’s exterior? If so, consider tarmac driveways. Tarmac driveways have become quite popular among homeowners lately due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. Whether you want to raise curb appeal or provide a smooth surface for your vehicle, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about tarmac driveways—from benefits and installation processes to essential maintenance tips. Let’s explore the world of tarmac and see how it can enhance your property!
What is the Tarmac Driveway?
Tarmac driveways are a popular choice among homeowners who prefer durable and visually aesthetic choices for their driveways. This mixture of stone and bitumen gives a smooth, dark surface that can add attractiveness to any property. The tarmac driveways are robust in nature, showing efficient resistance towards extreme weather conditions. Therefore, it will be convenient for those seeking to efficiently replace their home’s exterior.
Benefits of Tarmac Driveway
Durability and Longevity
Tarmac is one of the excellent choices for driveways, due to its durable nature and longevity. It is made from a mixture of tar, aggregate, and asphalt cement, which creates a strong and sturdy surface that can withstand heavy traffic and inclement weather conditions.
Low Maintenance
These driveways require little or no maintenance as compared to other materials, such as gravel or concrete. This means they won’t easily crack or develop potholes; hence, there will be little you need to do or pay to repair them.
Rapid Installation
Tarmac driveways can be installed quickly, especially if you hire experienced professionals. The process involves laying down layers of tarmac and compacting them with a roller, which means your new driveway can be ready for use in just a few days.
Cost-Effective
Tarmac is an affordable material for driveway installation. It can be installed quickly, meaning labour costs will be lower than other materials that may take longer to install and require specialised equipment.
Versatility
You can discover a stunning range of tarmac colours and finishes, perfect for enhancing your outdoor spaces. Tarmac driveways are classy and elegant, giving any property an attractive and modern look. Their smooth surface provides good curb appeal and is known for being durable and long-lasting.
Installation Process for Tarmac Driveway
Installing a tarmac driveway remains one of the most popular choices for several homeowners because it is solid, low-maintenance, and smooth. Here is a clear, step-by-step guide on how to install a tarmac driveway:
Planning and Preparation
Proper planning and preparation are the very first steps in driveway installation. This includes measuring the area where the driveway will be installed, acquiring any necessary permits or permission from local authorities, and clearing the site of debris or vegetation.
Excavation
Excavation could begin after clearing the area. The excavation depth will depend on soil type and the expected load to be supported by the driveway, but it is usually around 300 mm below the surface.
Base Preparation
After excavation, the base must be prepared for drainage and stability before applying the tarmac layer. This process involves compacting the soil, adding layers of crushed stone or gravel, and compacting each layer using a roller.
Edging
Edging is integral to tarmac driveway installation, as it helps clearly define the driveway’s edges and contributes to its overall durability and aesthetics. This defines the driveway’s shape and adds a polished finish, showcasing the surfacing company’s skill and artistry.
Sub-Base Installation
Proper installation is crucial for the driveway’s structure and stability. The professional assesses and compact the sub-base correctly, possessing expert skills and knowledge. The installation of a subbase guarantees that the driveway can support vehicles’ weight without sinking or forming uneven surfaces over time.
Binding Layer
This is the crucial intermediary layer between the subbase and the final tarmac surface. Applying this layer necessitates accurate precision to ensure optimal adhesive and cohesive strength throughout the structure. Professionals use the binding layer’s right thickness while considering traffic load and weather conditions. This layer ensures a smooth transition from the subbase to the final surface, resulting in a unified and durable tarmac driveway.
Surface Layer
This section of the tarmac driveway requires skill and precision during installation. Professionals use specialised equipment to apply this layer uniformly, resulting in a smooth and visually appealing finish.
Compaction
Compaction is a crucial step in driveway installation that affects structural integrity. Experts calibrate specialised compaction equipment for achieving optimal density, essential to prevent sinking, settling, or surface deformities over time.
Finishing Touches
Attention to detail and applying finishing touches are the final steps in tarmac driveway installation. Professionals strive to enhance the basics, giving attention to detail for avoiding minor flaws for a polished final result.
Tarmac Driveway Maintenance Tips
To maintain your tarmac driveway, regularly clean and remove any debris from its surface. If left unaddressed, leaves, dirt, rocks, and other debris can damage the tarmac. You can quickly remove loose debris with a leaf blower or a broom.
Repair Cracks and Potholes: Over time, your tarmac driveway may crack and develop potholes due to heavy use or extreme weather conditions. These should be repaired immediately for preventing them from getting bigger and causing more damage. Small cracks can be filled with a tarmac patching compound, but larger cracks and potholes may require professional repair.
Sealcoating: Sealcoating is a step to undertake when maintaining your tarmac driveway. It will prevent the surface from being destroyed by water, UV rays, and other destructive factors. Sealcoating will restore your driveway’s appearance, making it look as good as new. Sealcoating your tarmac driveway every 2-3 years is recommended.
Avoid Heavy Machinery or Vehicles: Tarmac driveways do not support heavy machinery, so you should avoid parking heavy vehicles or placing larger equipment to ensure the driveway’s durability remains intact.
Regular inspection: Taking care of them early will help you in avoiding expensive repairs in the future. Therefore, you should hire experts for professional inspection regularly for the identification of potential problems sooner.
Conclusion
A tarmac driveway can enhance the appearance of your property while also improving its functionality. Their long-lasting durability, cost-effectiveness, and aesthetic versatility benefit homeowners. A perfect installation will help maximise all these benefits while ensuring its long-lasting performance through regular maintenance. You can have a beautiful tarmac driveway in your house for many years by understanding and following care tips. Upgrade your home with this investment today and have the style with practicality at the same time.