Tarmac is a highly versatile surfacing material, known for its affordability. It’s ideal for low traffic areas, commonly used in the UK for driveways and private roads. Once laid, however, it’s not simply a case of leaving it, with maintenance required over time to keep it in a good condition. So what maintenance does it require, and is it going to be expensive? In this guide, we cover everything you need to know.
What maintenance do tarmac surfaces require?
Moss and grime build-up is one of the most common issues with tarmac surfaces. When wet, this can become slippery, particularly in the winter months. If left long enough, it can lead to deterioration of the surface, causing damage that’s expensive to repair and a general loss of aesthetics.
Routine washing
Tarmac should be pressure washed ideally once a year to remove moss and grime build up. Chemical treatment is also an option, helping to kill moss and make it easier to remove.
Regular tarmac cleaning is also important for removal of any oil, a common issue with driveways. Oil softens bitumen, which can lead to expensive damage if left to stand.
Hole/crack repair
Potholes and cracks are common with tarmac surfaces and can become a serious issue if left unattended. Heavy vehicle loads, weather, and water ingress can all gradually cause damage, which should be dealt with quickly.
Repair kits are available for smaller fixes, though larger damage may require professional attention. If not repaired properly, problems are likely to recur, which may eventually result in the surface needing to be resurfaced or fully excavated and re-laid.
Sealing
It’s recommended to have tarmac sealed every three to five years, though this depends on the age of the surface, its condition, traffic levels, and weather exposure. Sealing helps repair minor damage, prevents further deterioration, and restores colour.
Compared to asphalt which requires sealing every 2 to 3 years, tarmac requires less frequent treatment. It’s an important maintenance practice for both, helping to extend the life of the surface.
Average cost of maintaining tarmac driveways & surfaces
While a DIY approach can be taken to some aspects of tarmac maintenance, it’s often advisable to seek professional assistance. This does come at an added cost, though in the long term it’s worthwhile to ensure your surface receives the right care.
Driveways
Driveways should typically be resealed every 5-8 years, with minor crack repairs every few years and occasional cleaning and moss treatment. On average, you can expect to pay £1–£3 per m² annually. To put into terms, for an average driveway of 50m², you can expect to pay £50–£150 in maintenance per year.
Private roads
Private roads typically receive greater levels of traffic and cover a larger area, so over their lifetime should be expected to require occasional pothole repairs, drainage maintenance, crack sealing, edge repairs, and periodic surface dressing or resurfacing. On average, you can expect to pay £2-£6 per m² annually.
Playground surfaces
Playgrounds require safety inspections, anti-slip maintenance, crack repairs, colour surface touch-ups, and cleaning to remove moss and algae. On average, you can expect to pay £3-£8 per m² annually.
Commercial car parks
Commercial car parks require line marking refreshes, oil stain treatment, pothole repairs, crack sealing, sweeping, and periodic resurfacing due to heavy vehicle traffic. On average, you can expect to pay £2-£7 per m² annually.
The results of improper tarmac maintenance
Improper maintenance can quickly catch up and add up in repair if left too long. Left in a poor condition, standard repair may no longer be an option, and instead, a complete resurfacing or reconstruction job may be required.
A well-maintained tarmac surface can easily last 15 to 20 years. With 5-7 years of no maintenance however, the surface is likely to result in cracking, weed growth, and structural deterioration.
Key takeaways
Tarmac is a solid surfacing material choice for low traffic areas. The maintenance it requires is relatively low, and maintained well, can lead to a long lasting surface that is low cost to have installed and maintain.
- Tarmac is a cost-effective, low-maintenance material best suited to low traffic areas, including driveways and private roads
- Routine pressure washing once a year helps prevent moss, grime, and oil build-up from causing damage
- Cracks and potholes should be addressed promptly – the longer they’re left, the more costly the repair
- Resealing every three to five years helps restore colour, prevent water damage, and extend the life of the surface
- A well-maintained tarmac surface can last 15 to 20 years; without maintenance, deterioration can set in within 5-7 years
- For best results, seek professional help for anything beyond basic cleaning and minor repairs
Choose A&MT for tarmacing
At A&MT, we’re highly experienced surfacing contractors, committed to completing all our work to the highest standard. Whether you need tarmac sealing, resurfacing, pothole repair, or the installation of a new driveway, car park, or road system, we’ve got you covered.
Project big or small, we have a proven track record completing residential and commercial surfacing. To learn more about our services or for a free, no-obligation quote, get in touch with us today.
We serve the entire UK, offering tarmac surfacing across Cambridgeshire and the following nearby counties:
Norfolk | Lincolnshire | Leicestershire | Nottinghamshire | Essex | Hertfordshire | Bedfordshire | Buckinghamshire | Northamptonshire
