Tarmac and concrete are two very different surfacing materials, and the differences go further than what meets the eye. Concrete is prized for its durability and low maintenance, while tarmac remains the UK’s go-to choice for many applications.
Both have their strengths and weaknesses, so which is better? It all comes down to the requirements of your project. In this article, we take a closer look at tarmac and concrete, comparing and exploring what sets them apart.
About tarmac
Tarmac, short for tarmacadam, is made of aggregates, such as sand and crushed stone, bound together with tar. It’s a durable material, originally invented for surfacing roads.
Asphalt is the modern replacement for tarmac. The two are often confused due to their shared black colour. Both are aggregate mixes, with the key difference being the binder – asphalt uses bitumen rather than tar. Asphalt is the material used for most UK roads and driveways, but is commonly referred to as tarmac.
About concrete
Concrete is made from a mixture of cement, fine sand, coarse aggregate, and water. It makes up around 4% of UK roads and is also a popular option for driveways. Despite its little use in the UK, it’s known for its strength and longevity, and is one of the most hardwearing surfacing materials available.
Key differences between tarmac and concrete
Cost
The cost of both materials varies considerably depending on the size of the job, site conditions, and the contractor you choose. Tarmac however is typically more affordable upfront to have installed than concrete. Concrete can’t be machine layer, making its installation a much more labour-intensive process.
Maintenance
Concrete is a highly porous material, which means it can absorb water, oils, and other substances if left unsealed. Regular maintenance is required to keep it in good condition, with cleaning and resealing recommended every two to five years. A poor maintenance schedule can lead to staining, colour changes, and eventually structural deterioration.
Tarmac is less porous and generally requires less upkeep. Periodic sealing and cleaning are recommended to maintain its condition and extend its lifespan. Any cracks or potholes should be dealt with promptly, as left untreated, they can quickly become a much greater problem.
Lifespan
Concrete on average has a longer lifespan than tarmac. A well-maintained concrete surface can last 30-40 years, compared to around 15–20 years for tarmac. The longevity of either surface isn’t just about the material itself, but its upkeep and installation. For a long-lasting surface, a well-prepared subbase, quality materials, and experienced contractors are all essential in reducing the risk of premature structural failure.
Installation
Tarmac has a clear advantage when it comes to installation. It can typically be laid and used within 24 hours, making it far less disruptive. Concrete can take up to seven days to fully cure, which can cause inconvenient delays.
The installation of tarmac is also far less labour-intensive compared to concrete. Tarmac uses machinery to automate much of the laying process, whereas concrete requires considerably more manual work.
Why tarmac is more commonly used in the UK
Concrete offers impressive durability but can be noisy and become uneven over time. In cold temperatures, concrete expands and contracts at a greater rate, making cracking a common problem in the UK’s climate.
Tarmac offers more flexibility, which helps it handle ground movement and temperature fluctuations without cracking as readily. Its affordability is also one of the key reasons for its common use across the UK. Compared to concrete, tarmac is generally 20% to 30% cheaper.
The environmental impact of tarmac and concrete
Neither tarmac nor concrete is without environmental impact, releasing carbon emissions during production. Modern production methods however are more sustainable than they once were, with both highly recyclable.
If environmental impact is a key consideration for your project, gravel and resin bound surfacing are eco-friendlier alternatives. While they’re not suitable for every application, they’re well worth considering for driveways and other areas where permeability and sustainability are a priority.
Is tarmac or concrete better?
Both tarmac and concrete are strong, reliable surfacing materials. There’s no clear winner, with each better suited to different needs.
For a cost-effective, quick-to-install solution, tarmac is a practical and popular choice for driveways, private roads, and other low-traffic areas. Concrete offers even greater durability, making it a hard-wearing option for driveways, roads, and other surfaces.
In many cases, cost is the deciding factor. Concrete carries a higher upfront price, and the extended installation time can add inconvenience. It’s worth taking the time to research both options carefully, ensuring you make the right decision for your project.
Choose A&MT Contractors of Tarmac Surfacing
At A&MT, we’re professional surfacing contractors with over 50 years of experience. Whether you need a new driveway, road surfacing, or pothole repairs, our team are here to help. We work on both commercial and residential projects across the UK – no job is too big or too small.
To find out more about our tarmac surfacing services or to request a free, no-obligation quote, get in touch with us today. We operate from depots in Peterborough and Romford, regularly completing projects across Cambridgeshire and the surrounding counties.
