When it comes to driveway surfaces, tarmacadam or tarmac is one of the most popular choices in Ireland. This is not surprising as tarmacadam driveways are affordable yet durable.
The cost of a tarmac driveway in Dublin is just around €50 to €100 per square metre. This driveway can already last up to two decades.
Its ability to withstand extreme weather and heavy loads is undeniably one of the reasons for its longevity. But how it is installed also impacts the life span of a tarmac driveway.
While tarmac drives are hard-wearing, they are just like other drives in that they can get damaged. Moreover, they are not immune to wear and tear. So, they will naturally look worn over time.
What Can Damage Tarmacadam Driveways?
The number one enemy of tarmac driveways is an oil spill. A few drops of gasoline, petrol or diesel won’t drastically affect it. However, it is a different story if the fuel leak happens repeatedly or if the spill involves a large amount of oil.
An oil spill can dissolve the tarmac, resulting in cracks and holes. Moreover, it can significantly weaken the base of the driveway.
Tarmac also degrades when exposed to ultraviolet light. It may hold up well to the scorching heat, but prolonged exposure to UV lights can cause the drive’s surface colour to fade.
Moreover, it softens and loosens the aggregate. When this happens, the driveway easily gets damaged. It loses its ability to withstand heavy weights.
Even weeds and grasses that are seemingly harmless can damage your tarmac drive. They can grow through the tarmac and cause cracks on the material.
Can You Repair Tarmacadam Driveways?
Clearly, like all other types of driveways, those made of tarmac can develop cracks, potholes and other damages. Fortunately, these issues can be remedied easily as long as they are addressed early.
Furthermore, unlike those made of concrete, tarmac driveways are not expensive to repair. With concrete driveways, it is often costlier to fix them than to replace them.
To be clear:
After patching holes and cracks, your tarmac driveway will not look good as new. The patchworks will be evident, which can decrease your drive’s aesthetic appeal.
Don’t fret, though, as they will become less noticeable after several weeks or months. They will eventually meld with the surrounding surface due to the passage of time and the effects of weathering.
Another thing to keep in mind:
Repairing a tarmac driveway is not advisable if the damage is already severe. Hence, an inspection should be done first before taking any action.
When the foundation has deteriorated or the surface is in disrepair, a tarmac driveway replacement is the best option.
On the other hand, resurfacing is recommended when the foundation is still intact, but the surface is peppered with holes or cracks. This type of repair involves adding a brand new coating over the old layer.
Professional Tarmac Driveway Repair Services in Dublin
But while fixing damages on a tarmac drive is easy, do not think that it is a job you should take on. Tarmac repairs should be entrusted to professionals and not amateurs.
Without the know-how and equipment, repairing a tarmac driveway can be a complex and tedious task. Many DIYers commit mistakes, resulting in sloppy repairs.
For example, they end up pouring the cold pour material or hot tarmac directly on top of the damaged area without cutting out the damaged part. This only temporarily hides the damage. In just a matter of days or weeks, you can expect the problem to resurface again.
These errors result in lost time and resources. In some cases, the mistakes exacerbate the problem, and the owners end up spending more to rectify them.
Tarmac specialists in Ireland know precisely what needs to be done. You can trust them to use the right materials and employ the best techniques. You can count on them to finish the job quickly but still deliver top-notch repair work that lasts many years.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair Tarmacadam Driveways?
Tarmac driveway repair costs vary depending on the issue or damage that needs to be fixed. But they are cheaper than replacing the drive.
In Dublin, resurfacing a tarmac driveway costs anywhere between €9 to €18 per square metre. For a 30-square-metre driveway, expect to spend around €2,800 to €5,300.
Remember, just like the cost of installing a new tarmac driveway, repair prices are affected by various factors such as the condition of the drive, location, season and materials. Hence, it can be challenging to come up with an accurate quote when these pertinent details are not available.
Need professional tarmacadam driveway repair services in Dublin? Call us now on 0852139591or leave us a message on our website to request a free quote.
