It began as a tiny crack in your tarmac drive. Then water and frost conspired to turn it into a large gaping hole. Many homeowners are at this crossroads now wondering whether to repair, resurface or replace. The best option depends on the severity of the damage and what lies underneath. This article explores each option in detail
Why Tarmac Driveways Crack and develop Potholes
Tarmac is a resilient surface but it is not indestructible. The most common reasons for tarmac driveway damage and deterioration are:
- Water working its way down cracks
- Frost
- Heavy vehicles such as vans and lorries
- Poorly prepared sub base by an incompetent contractor
- Tree roots
- Oil and petrol
Water is the main culprit in tarmac driveway damage as it will always seek out the weakest point to penetrate. This may be a crack or a poorly compacted joint. Once water has entered the tarmac it will freeze on a cold night expanding the crack.
Understanding the Different Types of Tarmac Damage
To help you decide which course of action is the most suitable to remedy the situation it is important to understand the kinds of damage.
Hairline cracks are fine lines that are barely visible and are easily filled. Wide cracks are larger and allow water to penetrate more readily and should be repaired as a matter of urgency. Alligator cracks are a series of interlinked cracks that give the appearance of crocodile skin and indicate a weak sub base. Potholes are depressions in the surface caused by a weakness and should be repaired as they have the potential to grow.
Repair or Replace your Tarmac Driveway
A repair is the most sensible option to remedy relatively minor tarmac damage that affects only a small percentage of the surface. Repair methods range from filling minor fissures to excavating larger areas and replacing the surface with new tarmac. A new repair will often involve reprofiling the edges and surrounding surface and rolling to make sure the new surface is compacted correctly. The repair process is quick and it is a cost effective short term solution.
Resurface or Renew your Tarmac Driveway
Resurfacing typically consists of scarifying and re laying a new surface of tarmac over the existing surface. It is a good option because it is a quick and cheap way of giving your driveway a fresh new look. It may be the right choice for you if the sub base is in good condition, but the surface tarmac is worn or uneven. Resurfacing can be a great option for those who want to see an improvement without having to invest too much time and money into the job. The new layer of tarmac seals minor existing cracks and provides an improved appearance. The tarmac driveways contractors at Swansea Driveways can advise you on the viability of each option.
When to Consider Complete Replacement
Sometimes it is a more economical option to excavate the existing tarmac and lay a completely new surface. This may be the preferred option if there are widespread cracks, persistent potholes or a weak sub base particularly if the surface rolls or undulates badly. A complete replacement also makes sense if there are significant depressions that hold water or if the surface edges are curling or breaking away. Replacement entails excavating the old surface, checking and remedying the sub base then laying new layers of tarmac that are rolled to provide a firm surface. Although it is a more expensive option it does provide permanent solutions to persistent problems and a well constructed driveway can last many years.
How to Decide what to do
Here are five simple steps to help you decide whether to repair resurface or replace.
- Walk your driveway after a heavy rainfall and note any areas of water pooling
- Count the number of potholes and wide cracks
- Test the firmness of the surface by standing on it
- Consider whether previous repairs have failed
- Obtain a free no obligation estimate from a trustworthy tarmac driveways contractor
Can I do it Myself?
Cold lay repair bags can be used to repair minor depressions and crack filler can be used to seal small cracks. The affected area should be cleaned prior to repair and the material should be compacted thoroughly. More serious repairs should be left to the professionals as a hand roller will not provide the firm surface provided by a proper roller. DIY repairs to larger areas are unlikely to be completely successful and the problem is likely to persist.
Prevention is Better than Cure
There are some simple steps that should be taken to prevent future damage to your driveway.
- Seal any cracks as soon as they appear
- Clear any gullies and drains so water does not pool
- Trim back any tree roots growing near the surface
- Clear oil and petrol spills promptly
- Carry out regular driveway maintenance particularly in the autumn before winter arrives
- You may also be interested in the history of tarmacadam
Why choose Swansea Driveways?
If you are looking for a reliable driveway company in Swansea.Swansea Driveways can provide an extensive range of services. The landscaping company has a team of qualified hard landscapers and groundworkers who can provide a comprehensive range of services to residential and commercial properties. The staff are fully insured and offer competitive pricing and all work carried out is guaranteed.
Swansea Driveways serves residential and commercial properties in Swansea and the surrounding areas including Mumbles Neath Gorseinon Llanelli Carmarthen and tarmac driveways Bridgend. The company specialises in commercial tarmac for car parks and forecourages as well as private roads.
The process is simple and straightforward. Contact the team today to arrange a free no obligation survey then a quote will be provided and the works can commence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a tarmac driveway last?
A well constructed driveway can last many years. Good preparation and timely
Is resurfacing a driveway better than replacement?
Resurfacing is only advisable if the sub-base is sound
Why do cracks appear in tarmac driveways after repair?
Cracks appear if the underlying cause has not been addressed
Conclusion
Cracks and potholes are not always an indicator that a complete replacement is required. Minor damage can be repaired a worn surface can be resurfaced and a deep seated problem such as a weak sub-base can be replaced. The key is to identify the underlying cause. If you need further advice the friendly team at Swansea Driveways can provide further guidance and a free no obligation quotation.
Contact
Name: Swansea Driveways
Phone: 07836 267 418
Email: info@swanseadriveways.com
Address: Swansea and Surrounding Areas
