Common Types of Tarmac Damage Dover
When properly installed, tarmac and asphalt surfaces can deliver decades of reliable service; however, minor issues such as inadequate edging in critical areas, diesel spillage, or poor compaction can result in dips, uneven surfaces, and deterioration of your driveway in Dover.
Prior to commencing any repair work in Dover, our tarmac contractors evaluate the underlying cause of the damage. The most frequent problems we encounter include:
- Surface cracks resulting from weather exposure or ground shifting
- Potholes formed by water penetration and freeze-thaw cycles
- Edge degradation where the tarmac borders grass or gravel
- Sunken areas 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 inspection of the damaged area to establish whether a patch repair is adequate or if resurfacing a larger section is necessary. 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 forms the foundation of any durable repair. We use a disc cutter to remove the damaged section, creating clean, vertical edges. This ensures the repair material integrates properly rather than merely sitting atop compromised tarmac. When addressing potholes, we extract all loose material and inspect the subbase beneath. If the subbase has deteriorated, we excavate deeper and compact fresh stone before applying any tarmac.
Applying the Repair Material
For most repairs, we utilize hot bitumen tarmac due to its superior bonding properties 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 layers, ensuring thorough compaction of each layer using a vibrating plate or roller, depending on the repair size.
Finishing and Compaction
The final surface is rolled to align with the level and finish of the surrounding area. We intentionally overfill the repair slightly, accounting for material settlement during compaction. Special attention is given to the edges—adequate compaction at these points is crucial to prevent future deterioration.
When to Consider Full Resurfacing
If your tarmac displays multiple damaged areas or the surface exceeds 15-20 years of age, repairing individual spots may prove uneconomical. At Driveways Dover, we provide honest evaluations regarding whether repairs offer genuine value or if resurfacing the complete area represents the better solution.
For guidance on tarmac repairs in Dover, reach us at 01227 915186.
