A driveway forms the first impression of your property. It is also subjected to the elements and the passage of vehicles. That is why many homeowners are turning towards tarmac driveways in Bridgend. Tarmac provides a durable neat and budget friendly solution that is relatively quick to complete once installed.
This guide from the Swansea Driveway Team looks at tarmac costs and installation.It also contains information on the longevity of the drive’s life, as well as its overall maintenance. Finally, it includes drainage and design ideas that will help you know exactly what to ask when talking with a contractor.
Why Tarmac Is a Smart Choice
Tarmac is a construction material made from stone aggregate and bitumen binder. It is applied hot and then compacted to create a strong even surface that is resistant to heavy loads.
Here are a few reasons why tarmac is becoming an increasingly popular choice for driveways:
It is cheaper than many other options
- Quick to install
- Modern and attractive
- Roadworthy
- And easy to repair
Wales experiences regular rainfall which tarmac is ideally suited to due to its ability to resist weeds. This makes tarmac driveways a popular choice among homeowners in Bridgend.
Tarmac Driveway Costs in Bridgend
Budget will most likely be the primary consideration for most homeowners. Take a look at the typical range of prices quoted by local contractors.
A tarmac driveway in South Wales costs between £45 and £75 per square metre. A basic single-car driveway can be anywhere between £1500 and £2500. Larger three-car driveways have a price range of up to £5000 or more. These are only indicative figures as prices may vary significantly from one contractor to the next. It is always advisable to obtain a detailed quotation in writing.
Several factors can influence the price including the following
- The size of the driveway obviously determines the amount of material needed and the time spent on the project.
- The surface conditions. A driveway that requires excavation and has poor sub-base preparation will be more expensive.
- The presence of an existing surface that will need to be removed.
- Any restrictions such as narrow accesses or street constraints.
- The inclusion of edging and any additional works such as the installation of kerbs or drop kerbs.
- A reputable contractor will conduct a survey at your home and provide you with a fixed price quotation and will detail any additional costs. Steer clear of any contractor quoting over the phone without first visiting your home.
How a Tarmac Driveway Is Installed
Having an understanding of the installation process can be useful in identifying any potential issues. Here is a brief overview of the tarmac installation process
The first stage is known as excavation and consists of the removal of the existing surface and the creation of a suitable sub-base for the new driveway. The sub-base must be between 150 mm and 250 mm in depth.
The next step is to install the sub-base and compact the layers using rollers until the correct density is achieved for the new driveway.
This is followed by the edge restraint which will hold the tarmac in place and prevent it from spreading. This can be done using kerbs or timber.
The installation of the tarmac itself consists of a layer of binder and a wearing course that gets rolled while hot.
The final step is to allow the newly installed driveway to cure for at least 24 hours before any vehicles are driven on it.
Most driveways take between one and three days to complete and is much quicker than laying block paving.
How Long Does Tarmac Last?
A well installed tarmac driveway should last between 15 and 25 years. In some cases it can even last for longer if the surface is correctly maintained. There are three primary influencing factors that determine the longevity of a tarmac driveway. The first one is the sub-base and its thickness. The next factor is the thickness of the tarmac layer. Finally regular maintenance will prolong the life of the driveway.
Poorly executed and cheap installations often fail after a short period of time due to a shallow sub base and incorrect compaction. These factors usually manifest themselves in surface cracking after only a few years of the driveway being in service. Always ensure that you do not fall for cheap options and ask the contractor about the thickness of the sub-base and the tarmac depth during the installation.
Easy Maintenance Tips
Tarmac requires very little maintenance other than the following
- Regular sweeping
- Weed control
- Removal of oil stains
- Sealing of small cracks
- And periodic resealing every few years.
- Heavy vehicles should be kept off on very hot days as the surface can soften slightly.
Drainage Matters More Than You Think
Water tends to do the most damage to any paved surface that cannot shed it efficiently. Stagnant water will seek out any weakness in the surface and widen cracks in order to escape. This is especially the case in winter when the water freezes and expands cracks.
In the UK planning permission maybe required if the front garden driveway is over 5 square metres and the surface water drains onto the road or sewer. There are Government guidelines for permeable front garden surfacing. The best solution is to take the surface water to a lawn or flower bed or soak-away if the ground conditions allow. The best gradient for your driveway to take the water away from your house and into a soakaway should be advised by your driveway installer.
If you require a dropped kerb it is important to apply to Bridgend County Borough Council for approval prior to any works commencing.
Design Ideas for Tarmac Driveways
Many people wrongly assume that a tarmac driveway is a dull black strip of road. This is not necessarily the case as there are a number of ways in which you can add style and character to a tarmac surface.
You can add a border of any material of your choice. This includes block paving and brickwork which provide a striking contrast to the tarmac.
Another popular option is to add a curve to your driveway which adds visual interest. Curves are often preferred on larger plots of land.
You can choose from a variety of colours including red green or buff. Red tarmac offers a traditional look while green is the perfect complement to any garden.
A combination of tarmac in the centre and gravel on the sides is also a popular option and remains budget-friendly.
Finally you can add solar powered lights to the edge of your driveway. These provide excellent security while adding a touch of style.
The addition of strategically placed shrubs and flower beds is also an option when considering a tarmac driveway.
Tarmac or Resin: Which Is Better?
Resin is the other popular option for driveways and patios. Many people in South and West Wales are considering resin-bound driveways and our team also installs resin driveways in Bridgend and Llanelli. Resin-bound driveways in Carmarthen are also gaining in popularity.
Resin bound surfacing is a mixture of aggregate and a polyurethane binder. This surface is smooth and vibrant and allows for the free drainage of water. Here is a brief comparison of the two surfaces:
As can be seen from the comparison above tarmac is much cheaper but offers fewer visual options. Resin-bound driveways allow for better drainage but take significantly longer to install.
If budget is your main concern tarmac is the obvious choice. On the other hand if you are looking for a premium visual display and superior drainage resin is the way to go. Some homeowners opt to combine the two surfaces to highlight certain areas.
Think About the Whole Garden
A driveway should always be seen as the centrepiece of your outdoor space. Many local landscapers in Llanelli often offer driveways patio fencing and garden design as part of their service. It is always advisable to utilise the expertise of one company to complete as many elements as possible in order to save both time and money.
You may wish to incorporate a new pathway to your front door. Additional elements such as a raised flower bed or low boundary walls can transform your new driveway into a beautiful front garden. Our Llanelli driveway guide highlights the benefits of a well-designed driveway.
How to Pick the Right Contractor
Your driveway will only be as good as the company that installs it. Here are a few pointers to help you select a reliable contractor:
Always request references and pictures of completed driveways.
Check online reviews.
Obtain at least three quotations.
You must get at least 3 quotes.
Make sure they are covered by public liability insurance.
Get a detailed quote in writing which states the materials sub-base depth and timelines.
Ask that they put in a guarantee as proof that they are confident in their workmanship.
Never deal with contractors who just turn up at your house offering cheap options.
Final Thoughts
Tarmac driveways in Bridgend offer homeowners the best of both worlds. They are affordable yet durable and quick to install while still offering a degree of style. Keep in mind the following key pointers when considering a tarmac driveway:
Ensure that you select a reputable contractor that will lay a solid sub-base.
Ask about drainage solutions during the initial survey.
Remember to conduct maintenance such as periodic cleaning and sealing of your driveway.
Contact
Name: Swansea Driveways
Phone: 07836 267 418
Email: info@swanseadriveways.com
Address: Swansea and Surrounding Areas
