Tarmac Driveways Maidenhead
Reliable and built to last
Tarmac driveways remain one of the most popular surfacing options for homeowners across the country, prized for their incredible durability and cost-effectiveness.
Composed of crushed stone and bitumen, tarmac provides a smooth, resilient surface that handles heavy vehicle traffic and harsh weather with ease.
Aside from the cost, its popularity stems from its rapid installation time and seamless, professional finish. You can also be sure of a clean, modern look that requires minimal maintenance.
The benefits of a tarmac driveway in Maidenhead
Rapid installation
Unlike complex paving projects that can take weeks to complete, a tarmac driveway is typically installed and ready for vehicle traffic in just a few days. This rapid turnaround minimises disruption to your daily routine while providing an instantly refreshed, professional finish.
Exceptional cost-efficiency
Of all the driveway surfaces, tarmac is one of the most budget-friendly surfacing options available. Because it can often be laid over existing surfaces and requires less intensive manual labour than intricate block paving, it provides a high-quality, durable finish without the premium price tag.
Weather resistent
Tarmac is engineered to be incredibly resilient against the elements. Its flexible nature allows the surface to expand and contract with temperature changes, which prevents the cracking commonly seen in rigid materials during harsh winter frosts or intense summer heat.
Low Maintenance
Maintaining a tarmac surface is remarkably straightforward; it naturally resists weeds and only requires an occasional wash. If the surface eventually shows signs of wear, it can be easily patched or "top-coated" to look brand new, extending its lifespan significantly.
Frequently asked questions
What is a tarmac driveway?
A tarmac driveway (short for tarmacadam) is a surface created by layering crushed stone or aggregate and coating it with a tar-like binder. In modern installations, we use bitumen (a byproduct of oil refining) as the binding agent. Once levelled and compacted while hot, it cools to form a smooth, incredibly strong, and jet-black surface capable of supporting heavy vehicles for decades
Can I drive on a fresh tarmac driveway?
We recommend waiting at least 48 to 72 hours before driving or parking on your new surface. While tarmac cools quickly, it takes time to fully harden or "cure." During the first few weeks, especially in hot weather, it is also wise to avoid turning your steering wheel while the car is stationary (dry steering), as this can cause temporary scuff marks on the fresh surface.
Is a tarmac driveway the same as asphalt?
While they look similar, the difference lies in the mixture. Tarmac uses larger stone aggregates and is generally more cost-effective for domestic driveways. An asphalt driveway (or stone mastic asphalt) consists of finer aggregates and a higher bitumen content, resulting in a smoother, more "closed" finish. Asphalt is exceptionally hard-wearing for high-traffic areas but can be slightly more expensive due to the materials used.
