Tarmac Driveways Tilehurst
Cost effective and hard wearing
There is a reason tarmac driveways are so popular in the Tilehurst area, and continue to be one of the most popular driveway surfaces we sell.
Tarmac is hugely popular, first and foremost for its incredible durability. Hard-wearing and capable of handling considerable vehicle traffic, tarmac is composed of crushed stone and bitumen.
Similar to asphalt, but more cost-effective, this composition also maks them very reliable in extreme weather conditions.
And the best bit, they are very cost-effective. Get a modern, clean look and a super-fast installation. We told you they were popular!
The benefits of a tarmac driveway in Tilehurst
Weather resistant
The composition of bitumen and crushed stone creates a very flexible surface, which is engineered to be resilient to the harshest weather conditions. With the ability to expand and contract, this prevents cracking which can plague other driveway types.
Easy ongoing maintenance
It's difficult to find a driveway surface which requires even less maintenance than tarmac. Naturally weed resistant, the most this surface will require is a quick annual wash. You may start to see some wear after a number of years, but even then all it requires is a 'top-coat' to give it a new lease of life.
Quick installation
There are other driveway surfaces which require considerable time to install. Take paving for example, which although beautiful, is a more drawn out installation. But tarmac, depending on the size of the driveway of course, can be installed and ready for usage within days.
Cost-effective
We understand times are hard, and the desire for a new driveway needs to be balanced alongside your finances. This is where tarmac earns extra points. It is one of the most budget-friendly driveway surfaces we install in Tilehurst, requiring little install time and resource. But certainly don't see this as a compromise - tarmac is a favourite for many reasons.
Frequently asked questions
What is a gravel driveway?
Often referred to as "bitmac," a tarmac driveway is constructed by mixing graded stone aggregates with a sticky, dark bitumen binder. This mixture is applied while hot and then professionally rolled to create a solid, seamless foundation. Once it sets, it forms a highly resilient, weather-resistant surface that is specifically designed to handle the weight of multiple vehicles without shifting or cracking
How long should I wait before driving on my new tarmac drive?
To ensure the best long-term results, we advise keeping vehicles off the surface for at least 2 to 3 days. While the driveway may feel hard to the touch quite quickly, the "curing" process takes a little longer. We also suggest being extra cautious during the first few weeks of summer; try to avoid sharp turns while stationary, as the heat can temporarily soften the bitumen and lead to scuffing.
What is the difference between tarmac and asphalt?
The main distinction is the composition and texture. Tarmac uses larger stone pieces and is the traditional, cost-effective choice for residential homes. Asphalt is a more refined mixture with smaller aggregates and a higher volume of binder, resulting in a much smoother, "closed" surface. While asphalt is incredibly tough and ideal for high-traffic roads, tarmac remains the go-to for homeowners looking for a balance of durability and value.
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