Common Types of Tarmac Damage Margate
When properly installed, tarmac and asphalt surfaces can deliver decades of reliable service; however, minor installation issues—such as inadequate edging in critical areas, diesel spillage damage, or poor compaction—can result in uneven surfaces, depressions, and deterioration of your driveway in Margate.
Prior to commencing any repair work in Margate, our tarmac contractors thoroughly evaluate the underlying cause of the damage. The most frequently encountered problems include:
- Surface cracking resulting from weather exposure or ground settlement
- Potholes developing from water penetration and freeze-thaw cycles
- Edge breakdown where the tarmac borders grass or gravel areas
- Sunken sections caused by inadequate sub-base preparation or excessive weight
- Surface ravelling occurring when the bitumen binding material deteriorates
How We Repair The Tarmac / Asphalt
Initial Assessment
Our process begins with a thorough examination of the damaged area to establish whether a targeted patch repair is adequate or if resurfacing a larger section is required. Individual isolated defects typically respond well to patching, while extensive cracking or numerous potholes generally suggest that complete resurfacing offers better long-term value.
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 approach ensures the repair material integrates properly rather than merely sitting atop compromised tarmac. When addressing potholes, we extract all loose material and inspect the underlying sub-base. Should the sub-base prove inadequate, we excavate deeper, install and compact fresh aggregate before applying any tarmac.
Applying the Repair Material
Our repairs utilize hot bitumen tarmac, which provides significantly superior bonding 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 successive layers, ensuring thorough compaction of each layer using either a vibrating plate or roller, selected according to the repair size.
Finishing and Compaction
The final surface undergoes rolling to achieve a level and finish consistent with the surrounding area. We intentionally overfill the repair slightly, accounting for material settlement during the compaction process. Special attention is given to the edges—adequate compaction in these areas is critical to prevent future breakdown.
When to Consider Full Resurfacing
When your tarmac exhibits numerous damaged areas or the surface has exceeded 15-20 years of age, repairing individual spots may prove uneconomical. At Driveways Margate, we provide transparent assessments regarding whether repairs deliver genuine value or if resurfacing the complete area represents the more sensible option.
For expert guidance on tarmac repairs in Margate, reach us at 01227 915186.
