Why Tarmac is the Go-To Choice for Driveways and Commercial Projects

Are you a homeowner looking to upgrade your driveway? Or perhaps you’re a developer planning your next commercial housing project? No matter what project you’re undertaking, when it comes to driveways, roads and paths, having a reliable, versatile and durable surface material is essential.

Choosing the right surface material doesn’t just add visual appeal to your property. It’s a critical investment in durability, safety, and long-term value. 

The good news is there’s a tried-and-tested material that’s been widely used for residential and commercial applications: tarmac. With its strength, affordability, and low maintenance, tarmac offers the ideal balance of function and form. 

In this blog, we’ll explore why tarmac remains a leading choice in the construction industry and how a reliable tarmac company like MAM Contracting can deliver exceptional results for your project.
 

The durability of tarmac

When it comes to driveway construction and commercial developments, durability is a non-negotiable factor - and this is where tarmac truly excels. 

Made from broken stones that are pressed together tightly, this material is known for its resiliency and longevity when paired with proper care and maintenance. 

Let’s take a closer look at tarmac’s durability and see why it’s the ideal choice for a vast range of road or path construction projects:

• Weather resistance: The good thing about tarmac is it isn’t remotely affected by weather. This material is designed to endure extreme conditions - be it winter or summer. It’s also resistant to freezing and thawing cycles, which can cause other materials to crack and degrade over time. 
• Ability to withstand heavy traffic: Tarmac can handle enormous amounts of weight without deteriorating. This makes it suitable for properties with constant foot and vehicle traffic or in areas with harsh weather conditions. 
• Crack and pothole resistance: One of the most significant advantages of tarmac is its resistance to cracks and potholes. Unlike concrete, tarmac is more flexible as it can bear the pressure caused by temperature fluctuations and heavy traffic. This flexibility reduces the likelihood of cracks and the need for frequent repairs. 
   

Cost-effectiveness: Getting the most bang for your buck

When taking on a project, it’s important to consider the financial aspects of any surfacing material you will use. Don’t just look at the initial costs; make sure to factor in the long-term maintenance and durability of the material. 

Fortunately, tarmac excels in both areas, making it a smart investment be it for a residential or commercial project. 

Let’s take a closer look of its cost-effectiveness:

• Affordable initial installation: Compared to other materials, tarmac generally has lower upfront installation cost. Since it’s easy to install and dry, the process requires fewer labour hours and reduced equipment expenses. 
• Low long-term maintenance costs: Because of its durability, tarmac only needs minimal maintenance. Experts suggest inspecting it every 5 years to see if repairs are needed. Typically, occasional resealing or patching is all it takes to keep the surface in excellent condition. 

You can read more about the cost of tarmac driveways via our past blog article!
 

Comparing tarmac with other materials

Although we know that tarmac is cost-effective, it’s still essential to learn about the key difference of each material to help you identify the best option for your project:
 

Value for larger commercial projects

For larger commercial projects, tarmac stands out as a cost-effective solution due to its lower material and installation costs compared to other surface options. 

Key benefits for commercial projects include:

• Lower material costs: Tarmac's ingredients are more affordable, which makes it a cost-effective option for large-scale applications.
• Efficient installation: The quick application process reduces labour hours and associated costs, allowing projects to be completed faster without compromising quality.
• Minimal downtime: Since tarmac sets quickly, commercial properties can return to normal operations sooner, reducing potential revenue loss during construction.

These factors combine to offer excellent value for money, particularly for expansive projects like car parks, access roads, and industrial sites, where durability and cost-efficiency are paramount.

Discover more about all things tarmac with this in-depth guide on tarmac driveways.
 

Ease of maintenance: A hassle-free choice

As we’ve already highlighted, tarmac requires less maintenance compares to other materials. However, it still needs to be properly taken care of so it can last longer. 

Here are some essential tips to keep your tarmac surface in top condition:
 

Regular cleaning

• Remove debris: Clear out leaves, dirt, and other debris regularly to prevent build-up that could lead to surface damage.
• Power washing: Occasionally wash the surface with a low-pressure power washer to remove stubborn stains and maintain a clean appearance. 
   

Prompt repairs

• Address small cracks early: Although tarmac is highly resistant to cracking, any minor damage should be repaired promptly to prevent it from spreading. This can usually be done with simple patching techniques.
• Check for water drainage issues: Ensure that water drains properly from the surface to avoid pooling.
   

Sealcoating

• Protective layer: Applying a sealcoat helps maintain the surface's integrity and protect it from UV rays, oil spills, and water penetration. 
   

Cost and time savings

The low maintenance requirements of tarmac translate into significant savings:

• Reduced repair costs: Fewer repairs mean lower ongoing expenses.
• Minimal downtime: Maintenance tasks are quick and straightforward to make sure minimal disruption to daily operations, especially in commercial settings. 
   

Versatility of tarmac: Not just for driveways

Tarmac’s versatility goes beyond just driveways. Its durability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance position it as a leading material for a wide range of application in residential, commercial, and public projects.

Some of the applications include:

• Parking lots
• Roads and pathways
• Playgrounds and sports courts
• Industrial yards
• Loading bays
   

Customisation options

More than being functional, tarmac can also be tailored to meet aesthetic and practical needs:

• Colour variations: While traditional tarmac is black, modern techniques allow for different colours to match architectural themes or enhance visibility. 
• Textured finishes: Custom texturing can improve grip and add visual appeal, making it ideal for areas where both safety and design are priorities. 
   

MAM’s expertise with tarmac

When it comes to tarmac installation, experience and precision are vital, and that’s what MAM offers. As one of the leading tarmac contractors across Scotland and the UK, we’ve successfully completed a wide range of projects - from residential driveways to large-scale commercial developments.

Each construction project we take on is approached with meticulous attention to detail to ensure that the final result meets both functional and aesthetic expectations.
 

Why partner with MAM?

• Expert knowledge: Our engineers are highly trained, so you can guarantee that every tarmac surface is laid to the highest industry standards.
• Tailored solutions: We understand that each project is unique. Whether it’s a domestic driveway or a commercial car park, we design customised tarmac solutions to suit your specific needs.
• Client-centric approach: From consultation to completion, we prioritise clear communication and customer satisfaction, making the process seamless and stress-free.
   

Ready to enhance your property with tarmac?

Choosing the right contractor is crucial for a durable and cost-effective tarmac surface. With MAM’s proven expertise, you can be confident that your driveway or commercial project will successful and long-lasting.

Contact us today to discuss your tarmac needs and discover how we can deliver a solution tailored to your project. Let’s build something lasting together!