What is tarmac?
Tarmac is a substance made from crushed stone and sand mixed with tar.
What are the benefits of a tarmac driveway?
Tarmac driveways enjoy a myriad of benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Low maintenance
- Weather resistant
- Relatively environmentally friendly
- Dries quickly
What are the alternatives to using tarmac?
Resin is a great alternative to a tarmac driveway and is permeable, whereas tarmac is not.
Concrete and asphalt can also be used instead of tarmac. Both of which have their pros and cons.
How long does it take to lay tarmac?
Depending on the size and scale of the job a new tarmac driveway can be laid in three days. Typically, the preparation phases, like the excavation, drainage, and sub-base will take place over the first two days, with the tarmac being laid on the third.
Do I need planning permission?
Potentially. Current legislation states that planning permission is not required if the driveway uses a permeable surface. Tarmac is not permeable. However, you will only need permission if the size of the driveway is greater than five square metres, which most are.
For more information, you can visit The Planning Portal.
How do I find and hire a tarmac driveway installer?
You can find local tradespeople to lay your new tarmac driveway for free with My Local Toolbox. Simply post your job and get quotes from local contractors near you.
Tarmac driveway FAQ
How long does tarmac take to dry?
One of the reasons tarmac is so widely used is because of how fast it dries. You’ll find that tarmac can cool and harden after about five to eight hours.
Can you paint a tarmac driveway?
Yes! There are plenty of specialist tarmac paints on the market and they can be used to restore and refresh the look of your drive.
How thick should driveway tarmac be?
For residential driveways, you should excavate to a depth of 200mm to 230mm, with a 150mm sub-base, 70mm binder course, and a 30mm wearing course.
To get quotes from tarmac driveway experts near you post a job now.