Type of Surfacing for Tarmac Driveways

So, you’ve now decided to have your driveway for asphalt or tarmac derby paving. What road surfacing should you choose? Yes, there are different types of road surfacing when you choose Tarmacadam for your driveway. The different types are appropriate for varying amounts of traffic the road or driveway will be used for. With that in mind, it is essential that you have a general background on the types of road surfacing available.

Basecourse Bitumen Mix. This is the type of mix that is used when your driveway is uneven. It is composed of well graded large stone, dust mix and bitumen. Bitumen is the viscous material that holds all the materials together and is responsible for creating a firm surface. This is the type of mix that is commonly used with residential driveways, tennis court and playground areas. If you are doing a DIY project for paving your driveway, this is the best mix for you. It is also the mix that is recommended when you do not have a base foundation before pouring the asphalt.

Macadam Mix. This is the mix that you’d require for areas with high traffic. However, this type of mix is composed of different thickness dimensions. This mix is available in 6mm, 10mm and 14 mm wearing course. It can be tailored according to a consumer’s specification. Additional stones can be included in the mix if the tarmac driveway requires drainage. If you want a smoother finish, the mix can be altered with additional fine dust mix. The 6mm wearing course mix is not for recommended for heavy traffic areas. Instead, it is recommended for residential tarmac driveways, playgrounds and footpaths. On the other hand, 10mm and 16mm can also be used with residential driveways with high traffic.

Asphalt Mix. Have you tried comparing the asphalt finish of the grocery car park against that of your driveway? The mix used in car parks, industrial sites, airports and national roads will naturally be subjected to wear and tear. As such, the finish should be fine to afford the aesthetic appeal and skid resistant to avoid accidents.

American or Marshall Asphalt Mix. This mix is the combination of sand, dust and stone. It achieved the desirable, durable characteristic of asphalt and the manageability of tarmac. The best example of this finish can be seen in Dublin airport. Small to large business and household driveways prefer this type of mix because of its smoother and long lasting finish. However, in order to achieve the perfect results, it should be laid out with the right equipment and by skilled professionals.

Stone Mastic Asphalt Mix. The high stone content of this mix is perfect for high level and steep driveways because of its desirable skid resistant feature and additional drainage. The durability of this mix is achieved by adding dust and high levels of bitumen with fiber. As such, it is less prone to getting deformed. This is one of the most popular choices in the US because of its characteristic to absorb sound, thus reducing the engine noise level when driving.

There are many types of mixes that can be used for tarmac driveways. What’s essential is to have your driveway surveyed first to determine which the best mix for your driveway is.

Tarmac Derby specialists know which type of tarmac could be right for your driveway, as they have had many years experience, they will be able to advise you of the best types depending on your needs.