Tarmac is a material that has been used over the years to pave and surface road surfaces, car parks, driveways, pavements and forecourts. Tarmac laying may not be easy as it sounds and it would be better left to professionals because of the technical skills and equipment used. If it is laid out improperly it will develop cracks and plants will grow through the cracks which will lead to wastage of money and time. If you plan tarmac laying for a car park or a driveway, please consult a tarmac contractor or a tarmac company for pricing and the best method to apply. Tarmac laying will produce good results if well done.
Why You Should Hire a Professional for your Tarmac Laying
In comparison to other surfacing projects, the cost of tarmac laying is lower and if you have the knowledge or a background in the construction industry you may try it on your own. This is why you need a professional:
Tarmac Laying Construction Process
The professional knows how to carefully handle the tarmac, its properties and safety measures.
Assessing the existing surface
The professional will assess the surface and determine if excavation is necessary or not.
Measuring the gradient of the land
Drainage and the size to be surfaced in order to have the best outcome of a long-lasting tarmac. The process involves a lot of physical moving and therefore you should be up to the task in case you decide to do it on your own.
Tarmac Layers
Tarmac laying requires a foundation, therefore the contractor will excavate up to ten inches deep depending on the stability of the soil in your area. Hard-core sub-base will be added, crushed and pressed down. Side blocks are then added to the sides of the driveway and the tarmac laid in two layers.
The first layer consists of large aggregates. They are delivered in heated trucks spread on the surface and pressed down using a roller. The first layer is also called the base layer. The second layer (wearing layer) consists of smaller, smooth and fine looking aggregates and makes the surface look better. If the whole process is carried out well, then in future a resurface is needed only the top layer will be scraped off and reapplied. This is called an overlay. The drive will be ready to use after an hour and will be completely dried after a week or so.
Customising Your Tarmac
Many people think that is only available in black colour, but there are still few other choices to consider. This will make your drive appear better than just using the plain black tarmac. Tarmac also has few types which vary in the size, colour and the binding agent. You may want an aggregate that will look different from the roads. However, you should let the professionals decide the best binder for your drive. Although you may ask them about other better choices that may be available. Tarmac laying is cheaper if it is done on a large scale. Therefore, you should consider doing it with your neighbours as it will save the costs.
