Common Types of Tarmac Damage Ashford
When properly installed, tarmac and asphalt surfaces can deliver decades of reliable service; however, minor defects such as inadequate edging in key areas, diesel spillage, or poor compaction can result in dips, uneven surfaces, and deterioration of your driveway in Ashford.
Prior to commencing any repair work in Ashford, our tarmac contractors evaluate the underlying cause of the damage. The most frequently encountered problems include:
- Surface cracking resulting from weather exposure or ground settlement
- Potholes developing from water penetration and freeze-thaw action
- Edge breakdown where the tarmac borders grass or gravel surfaces
- Sunken sections caused by inadequate sub-base or excessive weight
- Surface ravelling where the bitumen binding material has broken down
How We Repair The Tarmac / Asphalt
Initial Assessment
Our process begins with a thorough inspection of the damaged area to establish whether a localized patch repair is appropriate or if resurfacing a larger section is necessary. Isolated defects can typically be patched effectively, while extensive cracking or numerous potholes generally suggest that complete resurfacing represents the most cost-effective long-term approach.
Preparation Work
Thorough preparation forms the foundation of any durable repair. We remove the damaged section using a disc cutter to establish clean, vertical boundaries. This ensures the repair material integrates properly rather than merely resting atop compromised tarmac. When addressing potholes, we extract all unstable material and inspect the underlying sub-base. Should the sub-base prove inadequate, we excavate deeper and compact fresh aggregate before applying any tarmac.
Applying the Repair Material
Hot bitumen tarmac is our preferred material for most repairs due to its superior bonding characteristics compared to cold-lay alternatives. The repair area receives a tack coat of bitumen emulsion to promote adhesion between the new material and the existing surface. We then apply the tarmac in successive layers, thoroughly compacting each layer using a vibrating plate or roller according to the repair dimensions.
Finishing and Compaction
The final surface undergoes rolling to align with the level and texture of the surrounding area. We intentionally overfill the repair zone slightly, accounting for material settlement during the compaction process. The perimeter edges receive particular attention—adequate compaction in these areas prevents future edge failure.
When to Consider Full Resurfacing
When your tarmac exhibits numerous damaged areas or the surface has exceeded 15-20 years of age, repairing individual sections may prove uneconomical. At Driveways Ashford, we provide transparent assessments regarding whether repairs offer genuine value or if resurfacing the complete area represents the better solution.
For guidance on tarmac repairs in Ashford, reach us at 01233 367038.
