Tarmacadam

The material of tarmacadam consists of tar and broken stone and naturally is a dark coloured, bituminous material that can be laid on almost any surface with the right preparation. When compressed the broken stones are held together by the tar giving the look and finish of a long lasting and highly durable tarmacadam surface.

The Process

The tarmacadam mixture is laid while hot and viscous, levelled and compacted, and then allowed to cool so that it binds to form a solid, hard-wearing surface. Wherever possible, tarmacadam driveways should be laid using a paving machine as this ensures the best compression and therefore finish. Sometimes it is not possible to use a machine in areas such as small garden paths, but your contractor will use alternative methods.

Avoiding damage

Newly laid tarmac is at greater risk to damage in its early life before the surface hardens over time. This risk is greater particularly in the Summer months when temperatures are at their highest. Damage can be caused by the use of ladders, standing vehicles such as caravans, motorbike stands etc.

Although any damage can be repaired, often the repaired areas can be obvious and spoil the overall appearance of the surface. This damage can be avoided by the use of boards under ladder feet or caravan / bike stands.

If you would like any additional information regarding any of the services listed above then please feel free to call 07555629068 or visit our contact page to get in touch with us via pjmpavingandlandscapingservices@hotmail.com.

Benefits

• Cost-effective – less construction time and materials to reduce the stretch on your budget.
• Faster construction time and less disruption to the road or pathway users.
• An alternative to the use of geo-textiles.
• A more sustainable option through thinner pavement design.
• Can avoid the need for full depth reconstruction – not an option with block as it needs a full depth bedding layer.
• Low voids reducing potential for water damage and improved durability – a common failing with block based products.
• Is more resilient to deformation in poorly designed heavily trafficked areas.
• Cost comparative: Long-lasting, durable, and economic alternative to concrete products and blocks.
• For residential and lightly trafficked areas tarmac is a durable coloured alternative to traditional asphalt. It is a direct alternative for block paving systems