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Tarmac driveway installation
Benchmark Paving installs tarmac driveways and assesses existing drives for resurfacing and repair. Based in Caterham, our team visits your property to look at the surface, supporting base, access and drainage before recommending the work.
Tarmac gives a straightforward, continuous finish for everyday parking. The right specification depends on your driveway and how it will be used. Arrange a free site visit to discuss the options and receive a no-obligation quotation.
New driveway, resurfacing or local repairs?
A new tarmac driveway
A new installation includes more than the visible surface. The quotation should set out excavation, supporting layers, compaction, edging, finished levels and drainage, along with the surfacing proposed.
Resurfacing an existing drive
An overlay may be an option where the existing construction is suitable. We need to assess movement, cracking, levels and drainage first; a new layer should not simply cover unresolved problems below.
Localised repairs
Cracks, potholes or damaged edges may need a targeted repair if the surrounding drive is sound. Widespread deterioration may call for a different approach. Read about driveway repairs.
Borders and connections
Edging can define the parking area and connect the tarmac with paths, steps or other paving. Discuss the appearance you want and how the surface will meet the house, garden and road.
Base preparation and drainage come first
Existing ground conditions and the vehicles using the drive affect the build-up required. A suitable, compacted base and secure edges support the finished surface. Access for deliveries and laying equipment also needs to be considered before the work is planned.
Ordinary dense asphalt should not be assumed to let rainwater pass through. The finished levels and drainage arrangement need to provide an appropriate route for water. Discuss the proposed system rather than relying on the material name alone.
Groundworks and driveway drainage · Compare all driveway materials
Driveway layouts and finishing ideas
Browse the existing driveway photographs for ideas about layout, borders and how a parking area connects with the property.
What affects the cost of a tarmac driveway?
Area, excavation, the existing base, removal of old material, drainage, edging and site access all affect the quotation. Resurfacing and a complete new construction involve different work, so compare prices against a clear specification.
Tell us the approximate size, how you use the drive and any current problems. We can assess the site and explain the proposed work. Our Caterham driveway cost guide includes a useful quotation checklist.
From site visit to finished paving
1. Inspect and specify
We discuss parking and access, assess the existing construction and agree the proposed surface, edges and drainage. The quotation should explain what is included.
2. Prepare and surface
The agreed work may include excavation or removal, base preparation, drainage and edging before the tarmac is laid and compacted.
3. Finish and care
We discuss when the new surface can be used and the care it needs. Follow the advice for the selected material, particularly during its early use and hot weather.
Frequently asked questions
Can you lay tarmac over my existing driveway?
Possibly, but only after assessing the existing surface and supporting layers. Movement, widespread cracking, drainage problems or unsuitable finished levels can make an overlay inappropriate.
How long does installation take?
Timing depends on the area, access, excavation, preparation, drainage and weather. We will discuss the work programme and when vehicles can return to the finished drive; laying time and time before use are different.
Can a tarmac driveway be repaired?
Localised damage may be repairable where the surrounding construction is sound. The cause and extent of the problem need checking first. A repair can remain visible because new and weathered material may look different.
How should I look after the surface?
Keep it free of debris, keep drainage routes clear and ask for care advice for the chosen surfacing. Discuss spills, concentrated loads and turning vehicles during early use or hot weather with the installer.
Do I need planning permission?
Check the proposed work and drainage arrangement against the Planning Portal guidance and any property-specific restrictions with your local planning authority. The choice of tarmac alone does not settle the question.
Discuss your project
Tell us what you have in mind, the project location and any useful details about the current surface. Our team visits customers at their properties.
Call 0800 696 5894, 0208 485 6462 or 0746 460 7167.
Where we work
Our team is based in Caterham and travels to customers in Warlingham, Oxted, Croydon, Bromley, Orpington and East Grinstead. Contact us to check your project location and arrange a visit.