While tar is now a common paving material, it was originally discovered by accident. In 1901, when Edgar Purnell Hooley was passing down a newly constructed road, he noticed that a nearby barrel of tar had fallen over.
Slag was employed by construction workers to aid in the clean-up process. This was when he discovered that the resulting surface material was far more durable when compared with other materials (such as gravel) that were previously utilised.
Tarmac was first used in private driveways in the early 1920s. It quickly became popular because it was much more durable than other materials that were available at the time. Tarmac is still widely used today because it is relatively inexpensive and easy to maintain.
Is the Tarmac Used in Driveways Better Today Than in the 1920s?
Yes, the tarmac used in driveways today is better than in the 1920s. It is made from a higher quality tar and mixed with other materials to make it more durable. It is also easy to maintain.
Today, tarmac is made up of a mixture of aggregate (gravel or crushed stone), binders (tar or asphalt), and filler material (sand). The binder and filler are heated and then mixed together before being placed on top of the aggregate. The whole mixture is then compacted using a roller.
If you would like a more accurate quote for your tarmac driveway, our team of experts at Kildare Tarmac and Asphalt would be more than happy to help. Contact us today for a no-obligation quotation.
What’s the Difference Between Asphalt and Tarmac?
Asphalt is a type of tarmac, but it is made from a different kind of tar. Asphalt is more popular in North America, while tarmac is more widely used in Europe.
Both are made from bitumen, but asphalt also contains sand and gravel. Asphalt is generally smoother than tarmac, but both are easy to maintain. One noteworthy difference is that tarmac is generally considered more durable than asphalt.
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Has the Current Increase in Oil Price Impacted the Cost of a Tarmac Driveway?
Yes, the current oil price increase has impacted the cost of a tarmac driveway. The price of tar has gone up, so the cost of tarmac has also increased. Despite the price surge, tarmac is still a relatively inexpensive option for a driveway.
How Many Different Uses Does Tarmac Have?
Tarmac has been used in various settings since its invention over 120 years ago. It was first used as a way to surface roads in the late 1900s and began appearing in private driveways in the early 1920s.
It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that tarmac became widely used as a paving material – thanks to its durability and low maintenance needs. Today, tarmac is still commonly used for both public and private paving projects.
What Are the Benefits of Using Tarmac?
There are many benefits to using tarmac for your paving needs. Tarmac is highly durable and can last for decades with proper care. It is also low maintenance, meaning it won’t require much upkeep over the years.
In addition, tarmac is relatively inexpensive compared to other paving materials. It is also easy to install, making it an excellent option for DIYers.
What Are the Disadvantages of Using Tarmac?
Using tarmac for your driveway has a few disadvantages. For one, tarmac can be susceptible to cracking and breaking if not installed correctly.
It also doesn’t offer much in the way of aesthetic appeal. So, it may not be the best choice for those who want their paving project to make a statement. Additionally, tarmac can get very hot in direct sunlight, making it uncomfortable to walk on barefoot.
How Should I Care for My Tarmac Driveway?
You can do the following to prolong your tarmac driveway’s life:
- Make sure to seal it every few years to prevent water damage and cracking.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners on the surface. If you must use them, be sure to rinse the area well afterwards.
- Sweep or brush away any debris that collects on the surface to prevent staining.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your tarmac driveway looking new for years to come.
Can Installing a Tarmac Driveway Damage Plants?
Tarmac can damage plants if it is not installed properly. When installing tarmac, care must be taken to avoid damaging the roots of nearby plants. If you are concerned about damaging your plants, you may want to consult with a professional before proceeding with the installation. Better yet, let professional tarmac pavers do the job!
By letting trained pavers install your tarmac driveway, you minimise (or even avoid) damaging plants. Moreover, you can enjoy a durable surface for many years to come.
Thinking about installing a new tarmac driveway? We have expert driveway pavers at Kildare Tarmac and Asphalt who can help you make this happen! Contact us today for more information.
How Soon Can I Park My Car on My Newly Installed Tarmacadam Driveway?
The time it takes for tarmacadam to cure will depend on a number of factors, including the weather conditions and the thickness of the tarmacadam layer. But to give you an idea, the curing process takes around 3 to 5 days. Once it has cured, you can park your car on it without any problem.
One of the main reasons tarmacadam is so popular for driveways is that it provides a smooth, hard surface ideal for parking cars. It is also relatively easy to maintain and repair if necessary. In most cases, an occasional sweep or hose down is all that is required to keep a tarmacadam driveway in good condition.
To add, installing a tarmac driveway is very affordable. Material and labour costs for this type of drive are way cheaper than other types of driveways. Hence, tarmac is undeniably the best choice for someone who wants to save money but still get a durable driveway.
Are you planning to install a new driveway? Thinking of using tarmac? You’ve come to the right place! We offer professional tarmac installation services at competitive rates. Call us today on 045 896 261 / 087 257 0867 or e-mail us at kildaretarmac@gmail.com.
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