How we lay it
The old surface is removed and the ground excavated to a firm level. A compacted stone sub-base goes down, then a hot asphalt binder course and a finer surface course, each rolled firm. The edges are held with kerbs, setts or block paving so the asphalt can't crumble away.
Getting the water right
Standard tarmac is sealed, so a front driveway needs a plan for rainwater. We lay it to falls towards a channel drain, soakaway or planted bed within your property. Porous asphalt is an option where you need a sealed look but want the water to soak away.
Finishes
Black is the classic finish. Red and other coloured surfaces suit some older properties. A contrasting border of setts or clay pavers lifts a large area of tarmac and helps it blend with the house.
Living with tarmac
New asphalt stays a little soft for the first weeks, particularly in warm sunshine, so avoid dry steering and heavy point loads such as jacks or skips until it has hardened. After that, it needs little more than an occasional sweep.
