Common Types of Tarmac Damage Faversham
When properly installed, tarmac and asphalt surfaces can last for many years; however, minor issues such as inadequate edging in certain areas, diesel spillage, or poor compaction can result in uneven surfaces, depressions, and deterioration of your driveway in Faversham.
Prior to commencing any repair work in Faversham, our tarmac contractors evaluate the underlying cause of the damage. The most frequent problems we encounter include:
- Surface cracking resulting from weather exposure or ground movement
- Potholes developing from water penetration and freeze-thaw cycles
- Edge degradation where the tarmac borders grass or gravel areas
- 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 examination of the damaged area to establish whether a localised patch repair is adequate or if resurfacing a larger section is required. Isolated defects can typically be patched effectively, while extensive cracking or numerous potholes generally suggest that complete resurfacing represents the more cost-effective long-term approach.
Preparation Work
Thorough preparation is crucial for achieving a durable repair. We use a disc cutter to remove the damaged section, creating clean, vertical edges. This ensures the repair material bonds properly rather than merely resting on compromised tarmac. When addressing potholes, we extract all loose material and inspect the underlying sub-base. If the sub-base has deteriorated, we excavate deeper and compact fresh stone aggregate before applying any tarmac.
Applying the Repair Material
For most repairs, we utilise hot bitumen tarmac as it provides superior bonding compared to cold-lay alternatives. The repair area receives a tack coat of bitumen emulsion to enhance 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, depending on the repair’s dimensions.
Finishing and Compaction
The final surface undergoes rolling to achieve a level and finish consistent with the surrounding area. We initially slightly overfill the repair, accounting for the material settling under the roller during compaction. The edges require particular attention—thorough compaction at these areas prevents future deterioration and breakage.
When to Consider Full Resurfacing
If your tarmac exhibits numerous damaged areas or the surface exceeds 15-20 years of age, repairing individual spots may prove uneconomical. At Driveways Faversham, we provide transparent assessments regarding whether repairs offer good value or if resurfacing the complete area represents the better solution.
For guidance on tarmac repairs in Faversham, contact us at 01227 915186.
