What is tarmac (asphalt)?
Tarmac (asphalt) is a flexible paving material made by mixing crushed stone aggregate with hot bitumen binder, commonly used for driveways, car parks, and roads.
Tarmac, or asphalt, consists of crushed stone and gravel bound together with bitumen, a dark petroleum-based binder. The material is heated to around 150-180 degrees Celsius during laying, allowing it to compact and flow into a smooth, durable surface that hardens as it cools.
The bitumen acts as the adhesive that holds the aggregate particles in place, creating a flexible pavement that can move slightly with ground settlement and temperature changes. This flexibility makes it particularly suited to the UK climate, where freeze-thaw cycles would stress more rigid materials.
Tarmac is widely used for residential driveways, where it offers a cost-effective alternative to concrete or block paving. It is also the standard surface for commercial car parks, forecourts, and access roads. The dark colour makes it practical for applications where visibility of markings and lines is important.
The material typically needs resealing every 5-7 years to maintain its waterproof properties and prevent water ingress into the layers below. Patching and filling minor cracks extends the life of the surface before full resurfacing becomes necessary. Local paving contractors can assess wear and recommend maintenance or replacement.