Tarmac.
A workhorse surface that stands up to heavy vehicle use. Fast to install and easy to maintain — perfect for driveways, access roads and car parks across Cheshire.
How tarmac works.
Tarmac is laid hot and rolled by machine into a tough, seamless surface. It's quick to install, handles heavy use well and suits everything from family driveways to access roads. Add a block paving border and it looks smart for years.
- Hard-wearing under daily use
- Ready to drive on within days
- Great value for larger areas
- Smart finish with a block border
Machine-laid
Hot-laid stone aggregate and bitumen, machine-rolled to form a tough, jointless surface.
Ready in days
Drivable within 24–48 hours, so your routine is barely interrupted.
Pairs with block borders
A block paving border lifts the whole drive and holds the edge in place.
Is tarmac right for you?
Pros
- Cost effective, especially on larger drives
- Quick to lay with little disruption
- Seamless, hard-wearing surface
- Easy to keep clean
Considerations
- Not permeable, so drainage needs planning
- Fewer colour choices than resin or block
- Can soften slightly in very hot weather when new
Beneath the finish
A considered foundation for your chosen finish.
- Base depth and compaction engineered for the loading expected
- Falls so water runs off correctly
- Edge restraint and kerb lines
- Thresholds and levels
- Access for plant and deliveries
Looking after your surface.
RoutineSweep and rinse+
Keep leaves and grit off the surface and rinse spills away promptly.
AnnuallyCheck edges and drains+
Clear channels and gullies and check the edges are holding firm.
3–5 yearsTreat small cracks early+
Sealing small cracks early stops water getting in and keeps the drive going for longer.
Tarmac questions.
How long before I can drive on it?+
Usually within 24–48 hours; we confirm timings for your job, as weather affects curing.
Can you lay tarmac over my old drive?+
Only if the existing base is sound. We assess this before recommending an overlay.
Is tarmac permeable?+
No — so drainage has to be designed in. Your proposal shows exactly where the water will go.
Thinking about a tarmac driveway?
We'll bring samples on-site so you can see colours and finishes in context.